Abdominoplasty: What You Need to Know About This Reconstructive Procedure
Abdominoplasty is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdominal area and, when needed, tightens the underlying abdominal muscles. It is commonly sought by individuals who have experienced significant weight loss or changes to their body shape following pregnancy.
While the procedure is often associated with cosmetic improvements, abdominoplasty can also offer practical, functional benefits. This includes reducing physical discomfort and improving abdominal support where muscles have been stretched or weakened.
What Does Abdominoplasty Involve?
Abdominoplasty is performed under general anaesthetic and involves:
- Removing loose or sagging skin from the lower abdomen
- Repairing separated abdominal muscles (diastasis recti), often caused by pregnancy or significant weight fluctuations
- Contouring the abdominal wall to improve structural balance
- Repositioning the navel, if required, as part of the reconstruction
The surgical incision is typically placed low on the abdomen and is planned carefully to be concealed beneath standard underwear or swimwear.
Functional Benefits of Abdominoplasty
Abdominoplasty is not purely cosmetic. Many patients pursue the procedure to address physical symptoms or functional limitations, including:
- Core muscle weakness: When abdominal muscles are stretched apart, it can reduce core strength and impact posture. Surgical repair may improve physical support and stability.
- Chronic skin irritation: Excess skin can lead to chafing, rashes, and recurrent infections, particularly in warmer climates or during physical activity.
- Discomfort with movement: A heavy or sagging abdominal area may restrict certain movements or exercises, and can make daily tasks more difficult or uncomfortable.
- Support after major body changes: Patients who have lost a significant amount of weight or had multiple pregnancies often find that excess skin does not retract on its own.
Cosmetic Considerations
While cosmetic outcomes are part of the surgical planning process, the procedure is focused on reconstructing the abdominal wall and addressing the physical impacts of loose skin and weakened tissue. The result is typically a firmer, more structurally supported abdominal area with a smoother skin surface.
In most cases, stretch marks located on the lower abdomen will be removed along with the excess skin, but this is not guaranteed and is not the primary focus of the procedure. Dr Kwei will further assess you at the time of your consultation to better understand what can be achieved.
When the Mons is prominent, Dr Kwei performs a Mons-plasty in conjunction with his abdominoplasty to better refine the Mons region, which results in a flatter contour of the lower abdomen.
Is Abdominoplasty the Same as Liposuction?
No. Liposuction removes localised fat deposits but does not address skin excess or muscle separation. In most cases, Dr Kwei’s combines his technique of abdominoplasty with liposuction, focusing on the flanks, midline of the abdomen and the Mons to better define the contours of the abdomen, depending on the individual’s body structure and surgical plan.
What Does Recovery Look Like?
Recovery time varies depending on the extent of the procedure. Most patients can resume desk-based work within 2-4 weeks, with full recovery taking up to 6-8 weeks. Wearing a post-surgical compression garment is typically recommended to support healing and reduce fluid retention.
Dr. Johnny Kwei provides each patient with a personalised recovery plan to help manage activity levels, scar care, and follow-up appointments.
Who Is a Suitable Candidate?
Abdominoplasty may be considered appropriate for individuals who:
- Have excess abdominal skin that does not respond to diet or exercise
- Experience skin irritation or discomfort due to skin folds
- Have abdominal muscle separation
- Are in good general health and not planning significant weight changes or future pregnancies
A detailed consultation with Dr. Kwei is the best way to determine whether abdominoplasty is the right approach for your circumstances. The consultation includes a discussion of surgical options – including full, mini, or extended procedures – and what outcomes can realistically be expected.
Dr. Johnny Kwei is a Specialist Plastic, Cosmetic and Reconstructive Surgeon in Sydney with expertise in body contouring procedures, including abdominoplasty. His approach is tailored to each patient’s individual anatomy and needs, with a focus on balanced outcomes and safe, well-managed recovery.
To learn more or enquire about a consultation, please get in touch with the clinic. Please contact us or call 1300 375 934.