Performed by Specialist Plastic Surgeon Dr Qadir Khan (FRACS)
Abdominoplasty, commonly referred to as tummy tuck surgery, is a surgical procedure that may be considered for individuals experiencing persistent abdominal tissue laxity or muscle separation. In clinical terms, abdominoplasty involves the removal of excess abdominal skin and, where appropriate, underlying subcutaneous fat, along with the repositioning and tightening of the abdominal muscles.
This tummy tuck procedure is often recommended when changes in abdominal contour have not responded to lifestyle measures such as diet or physical activity. Factors such as pregnancy, significant weight loss, or the natural ageing process can contribute to stretched skin and weakened abdominal muscles. Individuals considering abdominoplasty surgery in Perth are generally advised to be in stable health and at a maintained, stable weight. Patients planning future pregnancies or significant weight changes are typically advised to defer surgery, as these factors may affect long-term surgical outcomes.
At West Coast Plastic Surgery in Perth, each patient undergoes a comprehensive clinical assessment. This includes a detailed medical history check, physical examination, and discussion of individual goals. This structured approach supports informed decision-making and helps determine whether tummy tuck surgery is clinically appropriate.
A tummy tuck, medically known as abdominoplasty, is a major surgical procedure. It involves removing excess abdominal skin and fat and, in most cases, repairing separated abdominal muscles. For many patients, it follows pregnancy, significant weight loss, or changes associated with ageing. This guide provides clear, practical information to help you understand what to expect before and after surgery.
At West Coast Plastic Surgery in Perth, we offer several different abdominoplasty procedure types, each tailored to the unique needs and goals of our patients.
The full abdominoplasty procedure is commonly performed to address both upper and lower abdominal areas. This comprehensive procedure targets the entire abdominal region—both above and below the navel. It involves the surgical removal of excess skin and fat, as well as the tightening of abdominal muscles. The belly button is kept and is repositioned once the skin is removed.
A mini tummy tuck, on the other hand, is a less extensive procedure that focuses on the lower abdomen, below the navel. It’s an ideal option for patients who have a small amount of excess skin.
An Extended Abdominoplasty is a more comprehensive procedure that not only addresses the abdomen but also the flanks and lower back. This procedure is often suitable for individuals who have undergone significant weight loss and have more extensive loose skin.
A reverse tummy tuck is another variant of the procedure, where the incision is made under the breast, rather than near the pubic area. It’s often suitable for patients who have excess skin in the upper abdominal area. Each of these procedures carries unique benefits and considerations. During your consultation at our Perth clinic, Dr Qadir Khan will work with you to determine which type of abdominoplasty is most suitable for your individual needs and goals.
Abdominoplasty may be appropriate if you are experiencing significant laxity or abdominal muscle separation that has not responded to non-surgical approaches.
Women planning future pregnancies or individuals expecting further significant weight loss are generally advised to defer the procedure until weight and health are stable to support a sustained outcome. Results may vary depending on individual healing and lifestyle factors.
Dr Khan evaluates candidates individually, considering overall health, medical history, and personal goals.
At West Coast Plastic Surgery, our abdominoplasty procedure is performed with the utmost care and precision. Here is a general overview of the steps involved in a typical abdominoplasty or abdominoplasty procedure:
Your comfort and safety are our top priorities. The abdominoplasty procedure begins with the administration of anaesthesia. This is typically general anaesthesia. Our anesthesiology team will closely monitor you throughout the procedure to ensure your comfort.
Once the anesthesia has taken effect, Dr Qadir Khan will make the necessary incisions. The size and location of these incisions will depend on the specific type of abdominoplasty procedure being performed.
After the incision is made, the underlying abdominal muscles are repaired and tightened using sutures. This muscle tightening provides a firm foundation and helps create a flatter, more toned appearance in the abdomen.
Following muscle repair, the excess skin is carefully removed. The remaining loose abdominal skin is then repositioned and stretched over the newly reshaped area.
Finally, the incisions are closed with sutures. Dr Khan takes great care to place these sutures in a way that will minimise scarring as much as possible.
It’s important to remember that each abdominoplasty procedure is customised to the patient’s individual needs and goals. The exact steps of your procedure may vary slightly based on the type of abdominoplasty you are having. We will ensure you understand your personalised surgical plan before the day of your procedure.
Mr Khan then moved to Perth, Australia in 2007. He was selected for the highly competitive specialist training programme in Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery in 2014. After the successful completion of his fellowship with the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons in early 2019, he travelled to Brisbane and Newcastle Upon Tyne, England for post-training fellowships in Head & Neck Surgery, Microsurgery, Facial palsy and Sarcoma.
Mr Khan has published in the peer-reviewed Plastic Surgery journal, presented at national and international conferences and has been part of the training faculty in international plastic surgery flap reconstruction courses in the UK.
Qualifications:
Recovery after an abdominoplasty takes time and patience. At West Coast Plastic Surgery, we are committed to supporting you throughout every stage of your recovery.
You will receive detailed aftercare instructions covering wound care, medications, warning signs to watch for, and follow-up appointments. Following these guidelines closely is essential for optimal healing and results.
Some discomfort is normal after surgery and can be effectively managed with prescribed medication. We will also advise you on proper positioning when sitting or lying down to help minimise discomfort.
Proper care of your incisions is crucial to prevent infection and promote healing. This may include cleaning the area, changing dressings, and applying treatments as directed.
Physical activity should be limited during the initial recovery period. Avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting, and gradually resume activities based on our team’s guidance.
Every patient’s recovery is unique and depends on individual health and the procedure performed. Our team will closely monitor your progress and remain available to answer any questions or concerns throughout your recovery.
As with all surgeries, abdominoplasty carries potential risks.
Tummy tuck surgery, also known as abdominoplasty, is a well-established procedure when performed by a qualified Specialist Plastic Surgeon. As with all surgery, there are risks, which are discussed in detail during consultation. At West Coast Plastic Surgery in Perth, patient safety is supported through careful assessment, evidence-based planning, and structured aftercare. A consultation allows you to discuss suitability, risks, and expected recovery based on your health and circumstances.
The duration of a tummy tuck procedure depends on the type performed, such as mini, full, or extended abdominoplasty, as well as individual anatomy. Surgery typically takes several hours. During your consultation at our Perth clinic, Dr Qadir Khan will explain the expected surgical time, hospital stay, and recovery considerations based on your personalised treatment plan and overall health.
The answer is yes. During most abdominoplasties (tummy tuck), liposuction is performed along with excision of skin and subcutaneous fat. The extent of liposuction within the excised area and beyond varies depending on a number of factors which are assessed during a consultation. A consultation at West Coast Plastic Surgery in Perth helps clarify which approach may be appropriate for your anatomy and goals.
Results from a tummy tuck in Perth can be long-lasting when patients maintain a stable weight and healthy lifestyle. Factors such as pregnancy, ageing, or significant weight changes may affect results over time. During consultation, Dr Khan will explain how individual health, skin quality, and lifestyle influence long-term outcomes following abdominoplasty surgery.
There is no specific age that determines suitability for a tummy tuck procedure. Overall health, skin quality, and weight stability are more important factors than age alone. Adults considering abdominoplasty in Perth should be medically fit and have realistic expectations. A personalised consultation at our Perth clinic allows suitability to be assessed based on individual health rather than age.
Patients considering abdominoplasty surgery in Perth are generally advised to be close to their maintained, stable weight. Significant weight loss after surgery can affect long-term results. A tummy tuck is not designed for weight reduction but for addressing excess skin and muscle laxity once weight has stabilised. Dr Khan will assess timing and readiness during consultation.
