16/03/2024

Preparing for an Abdominoplasty Consultation

Every abdominoplasty journey begins with a conversation between a surgeon and their patient. When preparing for surgery, it is important for the patient to gather as much information as possible from their surgeon, but it is equally, if not more, essential for the person seeking an abdominoplasty procedure to provide the surgeon with several key pieces of information to ensure a positive outcome. There is a dual purpose of the initial consultation between the doctor and the patient. One important function is for the provider to assess the patient’s medical history, goals, and expectations. The second purpose of the consultation

04/03/2024

Is An Abdominoplasty Major Surgery?

While there is no official classification as to whether abdominoplasty is considered major surgery, most surgeons agree that any elective surgery in the abdominal area to remove excess fat, skin, and underlying tissue, involving general anaesthesia, is not a minor surgical procedure. Reasons An Abdominoplasty is Considered Major Surgery Though abdominoplasty involves the removal of excess skin and fat following significant weight loss and the tightening of loose muscles for cosmetic reasons, it is not an instant beauty fix. It is, rather, a major surgical procedure that can alter one’s physique, especially in the abdominal region. As such, it comes

24/09/2023

When Can I Go Back to Work After an Abdominoplasty?

The decision to undergo abdominoplasty involves careful consideration and planning. While the physical aspect is a significant part of the surgical procedure, most patients contemplate its impact on their daily lives, like work commitment. Ideally, most patients allocate about 4 weeks of leave from work for an abdominoplasty procedure. The recovery period, however, may vary from one patient to another. Therefore, understanding when it is advisable to return to work after an abdominoplasty is a crucial aspect of the decision-making process. This leads to a compelling question: What is the connection between one’s occupation and the ideal recovery period following

22/09/2023

Using PICO Negative Pressure Dressings for Abdominoplasty Incision

This page explains how and why our surgeons may use single‑use closed‑incision negative pressure therapy (ciNPT), such as the PICO™ system, after abdominoplasty (tummy tuck/abdominoplasty). It is general information only and does not replace a consultation. What is closed‑incision negative pressure therapy? Closed‑incision negative pressure therapy uses a small, battery‑powered pump attached to a specialised dressing to apply gentle suction (negative pressure) across a closed surgical incision. The dressing helps manage fluid (exudate), supports the edges of the incision and provides a barrier to external contamination while you heal in the early post‑operative period. Many single‑use systems are canister‑free and

20/09/2023

How Fashion Affects Abdominoplasty Scar Placement

Like any surgical procedure, an abdominoplasty (commonly called a tummy tuck) leaves a scar. The scar is typically a horizontal line across the lower abdomen. For many patients, one consideration is how the scar may sit in relation to their clothing and swimwear. At the Body Contouring Surgery Clinic (BCSC), our surgeons discuss scar placement with each patient during the consultation. The aim is to find a position that balances surgical requirements with a patient’s usual clothing choices. Types of Abdominoplasty Scars Different techniques are used depending on how much excess skin and tissue need to be removed. Each leaves

18/09/2023

Getting Medicare to Cover Your Abdominoplasty, What are the Rules?

Introduction: Why This Matters For many people considering abdominoplasty, one of the first questions is: “Will Medicare cover my surgery?” The answer is not straightforward. Medicare rebates only apply in very specific circumstances where the procedure is considered medically necessary. If the surgery is performed purely for cosmetic reasons, it will not be covered. This guide provides a clear breakdown of: By the end, you’ll understand the rules that determine whether abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) is partly covered by Medicare. Why Cosmetic Surgery Is Not Covered Medicare’s role is to fund procedures that improve health and function. Abdominoplasty that is performed

16/09/2023

7 Rules for How to Reduce Swelling After Tummy Tuck Surgery

Swelling is a normal and expected part of recovery after abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) surgery. It usually affects not only the incision line but also the entire abdominal region. If liposuction is performed at the same time, swelling may be more noticeable. While swelling can be uncomfortable, there are evidence-based strategies that can support your healing and help manage it effectively. Disclaimer: Operation performed by Dr Bernard Beldholm. Adult content, surgery has risks; individual results vary, seek 2nd opinion. Please see the full disclaimer. Why Does Swelling Occur After Abdominoplasty? Swelling is part of the body’s natural healing response. It occurs as

14/09/2023

What Is the Proper Abdominoplasty Aftercare?

Recovering from an abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) requires careful attention to aftercare. Following the guidance of your specialist surgeon is the best way to support healing, protect your incision, and minimise the chance of complications. Abdominoplasty procedures usually take between 2 to 6 hours, depending on the amount of skin to be removed, whether abdominal muscles are repaired, and whether liposuction is performed at the same time. While the operation is measured in hours, recovery is measured in months, and in some cases, the body continues to adjust over one to two years. Below are key areas of aftercare that form

10/09/2023

Abdominoplasty Recovery & Downtime

Recovery after abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) is a progressive process that unfolds over weeks and months. Most patients need two to three weeks of initial healing before resuming light activities. However, swelling and scars continue to settle for much longer. Residual swelling may last up to twelve to eighteen months, and scar maturation can extend to two years. Each patient’s recovery is unique, influenced by health, age, fitness, and whether abdominal muscle repair (diastasis recti) or ultrasound-assisted liposuction (VASER) was included in the operation. Abdominoplasty is designed to remove redundant skin and fat and, when necessary, repair weakened abdominal muscles. It

14/08/2023

How Long Does Abdominoplasty Surgery Take?

Abdominoplasty surgery time varies depending on the type of operation and whether suction-assisted lipectomy (liposuction) is included. As a general guide: These are average estimates only. Each procedure is tailored to the individual, and surgery may take longer or shorter depending on patient anatomy, previous surgery, and whether additional steps such as hernia repair or muscle tightening (Diastasis recti) are required. Average Duration of Abdominoplasty Surgery A mini abdominoplasty is usually the shortest procedure, limited to the lower abdomen below the umbilicus (belly button). A full abdominoplasty addresses both the upper and lower abdominal wall, often with muscle tightening and

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