Abdominoplasty – Frequently Asked Questions
Abdominoplasty (Tummy tuck surgery) is a procedure that addresses stubborn skin and fat in the abdomen that have proven resistant to diet and exercise attempts. Dr. Darrell Perkins believes that patient education is key to obtaining the most successful abdominoplasty results. Dr. Perkins is an experienced Plastic Surgeon who is very knowledgeable about the latest abdominoplasty techniques. Serving patients from across New South Wales from his Sydney practice, he can address any questions or concerns related to the abdominoplasty procedure. Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions regarding abdominoplasty. If you have additional questions, please feel free to contact our practice.
Who makes a good candidate for Abdominoplasty?
Patients who present for abdominoplasty at our practice range from those who may have just a small roll beneath the belly button to those who have undergone massive weight loss and have an enormous hanging roll. Each patient requires an individual assessment so that the appropriate operation can be planned to fit their specific needs and goals. Contact our plastic surgery practice to schedule an initial abdominoplasty consultation.
Which is better — Liposuction or Abdominoplasty?
Patients often ask if they are more suitable for liposuction or if they require abdominoplasty. In general terms, if you have good, elastic skin and excess fat, liposuction may be the best choice. However, if you have lots of excess skin or masses of stretchmarks, you may require an operation that removes the excess skin as well as excess fat. Abdominoplasty may be best for your needs. Dr. Perkins can assess your specific situation during your consultation and help you determine which procedure is best for your goals.
How long does it take to recover from Abdominoplasty?
Abdominoplasty for carefully selected patients can be performed as a day-only procedure, but generally a patient who undergoes a full abdominoplasty is admitted to hospital for a period of two to three days.
Most patients who undergo abdominoplasty require two weeks off work, depending on the extent of their procedure. It is possible that the patient may have a drain in for three to ten days, depending on how much drainage actually occurs after the procedure.
Will I have any visible scarring after Abdominoplasty?
The abdominoplasty procedure will leave scars. The size and placement of the scars vary between patients, but usually these scars are easily covered by swimwear and underwear. Most abdominoplasty patients find that the scars are a good cosmetic trade-off for the improvement in the contour of the abdomen.
Previous abdominal surgery is not a contraindication for abdominoplasty, and in many circumstances, vertical lower abdominal scars are able to be removed to rid the patient of these visible scars.
Who pays for Abdominoplasty?
Abdominoplasty following major weight loss may qualify for an MBS (Medicare Benefit Schedule) item number if specific criteria are met, making the procedure non-cosmetic.
Abdominoplasty to repair significant muscle separation following pregnancy may also qualify for an MBS item. An abdominal ultrasound to confirm the extent of the separation is required to meet eligibility.
As such, patients who qualify for an MBS item number and who are in a private health fund with appropriate cover will have a proportion of the costs rebated by Medicare and the health fund.
All other abdominoplasty surgery is classified as cosmetic and as such no Medicare or private health fund rebates apply for the medical or hospital/day surgery fees.
An estimate of costs will be provided following the consultation with Dr Perkins at his rooms in Kogarah or Miranda.
Schedule an Initial Abdominoplasty Consultation Today
Dr. Darrell Perkins is a knowledgeable Plastic Surgeon who can answer all your questions and concerns regarding abdominoplasty. Contact our plastic surgery practice to schedule an initial consultation with Dr. Perkins.