Abdominoplasty

What is an abdominoplasty?

Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck) is a reconstructive procedure designed to remove excess skin and repair abdominal muscle separation (diastasis recti). As a female plastic surgeon, Dr Webster prioritizes scar placement and functional core recovery. Abdominoplasty removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen and tightens the underlying muscles to restore a firmer, flatter abdominal contour. It is commonly performed after pregnancy, significant weight loss, or ageing when the abdominal wall and skin have stretched beyond natural recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • You might consider an abdominoplasty if you have

    • Loose or overhanging abdominal skin

    • Separated abdominal muscles (rectus diastasis) after pregnancy

    • Fat deposits resistant to diet and exercise

    • Post–weight-loss patients with skin redundancy

    • Individuals seeking improved core contour and posture

    • Performed under general anaesthesia

    • Incision placed low across the lower abdomen, usually from hip to hip, positioned to be concealed by underwear or swimwear

    • Excess skin and fat are removed

    • Abdominal muscles are tightened with internal sutures to restore firmness and waist definition

    • The skin is redraped, and the navel repositioned for natural proportion

    • Incisions are closed with layered sutures; drains may be placed temporarily to reduce fluid buildup

    • Hospital stay of 1–2 nights is typical

    • Walking encouraged within 24 hours; gradual return to normal activity over 2–4 weeks

    • Avoid heavy lifting or core exercises for 6–8 weeks

    • Compression garment worn continuously for several weeks to reduce swelling and support healing

    • Mild tightness and numbness are common during recovery

  • Results are durable if weight remains stable and future pregnancies are avoided. Core strength and posture typically improve due to muscle tightening, though natural ageing will continue to affect skin tone over time.

    • Abdominal profile appears flatter and firmer immediately, with further refinement as swelling resolves

    • Incisions are necessary to remove excess skin. Dr. Webster places the incision low on the pubic mound, extending hip-to-hip, designed to be concealed within standard underwear or swimwear. Scars fade significantly over 12–18 months with proper care.

    • Results are long-lasting with stable weight and healthy lifestyle habits

    • Bleeding, infection, delayed healing

    • Seroma (fluid accumulation)

    • Numbness around incision or lower abdomen (usually temporary)

    • Asymmetry or contour irregularities

    • Rarely, blood clots or wound breakdown

  • Medicare coverage is strictly regulated. Dr. Webster will assess your eligibility against current MBS criteria during your consultation.

  • A Full Abdominoplasty addresses the entire abdomen, removing excess skin above and below the navel and repairing the abdominal muscles. A Mini Abdominoplasty focuses only on the area below the navel and typically involves less extensive muscle repair. Dr. Webster recommends the technique that best matches your anatomy.

Dr Katie-Beth Webster offers abdominoplasty consultations in Melbourne, with appointments available in Box Hill and East Melbourne.

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