Before and afters Want to see our results with previous patients?
Who is a Good Candidate For a Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)?
Good candidates for abdominoplasty surgery are individuals who have:
- Excess Skin and Fat Has excess skin and fat in the abdominal area that does not respond to diet and exercise.
- Changes to Weight Has experienced significant weight loss, pregnancy, or ageing, resulting in loose, sagging skin.
- Weakened Muscles Weakened abdominal muscles or rectus divarication.
- Good Overall Health Including being a non-smoker (vaper) or willing to quit before and after surgery.
- Stable Weight Is at their goal weight and their weight has been stable for at least 3 months.
- BMI Has a BMI of less than 30.
While abdominoplasty can be a cosmetic procedure, it is also reconstructive in that it is necessary to:
- Correct abdominal abnormalities caused by extensive weight loss
- Improve the function of abdominal muscles and pelvic floor
- Remove a large and distressing apron of fat or “pannus”
Click here to watch Dr Cronin speak about when an abdominoplasty is medically necessary.
How is a Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) Performed?
Abdominoplasty surgery with our surgeons is performed as an inpatient procedure within one of the Gold Coast Hospitals we operate from.
- Anaesthesia
During abdominoplasty surgery, general anaesthesia is used in a certified private hospital to ensure your complete comfort and safety. This means you’ll be fully asleep throughout the procedure and won’t feel any pain. Anaesthesia is administered and closely monitored by a qualified specialist anaesthetist, who remains with you throughout the operation. - Incision
The surgeon makes a horizontal incision just above the pubic area, extending between the hip bones. The length and shape of the incision depend on the amount of excess skin to be removed and the specific goals of your surgery. Care is taken, where possible, to place incisions low enough to be hidden by most underwear or swimwear. - Muscle Repair
The surgeon tightens and sutures the weakened or separated abdominal muscles, creating a firmer abdominal wall and narrower waistline. This step is especially important for patients with diastasis recti (separation of abdominal muscles), often caused by pregnancy or significant weight changes. Restoring core strength through muscle repair can also improve posture and reduce back discomfort over time. - Excess Skin Removal
The surgeon removes areas of excess skin and underlying fat from the lower abdomen. Once this tissue is removed, the remaining skin is gently brought together and sutured. This is commonly performed in patients who have experienced significant weight changes or pregnancy. The goal of this step is to address skin laxity and improve overall abdominal contour. - Navel Repositioning & Closing
If necessary, a new opening is created for the navel, which is brought out through the skin and sutured into position.The incisions are closed with three layers of absorbable sutures. Drains are placed under the skin to remove excess fluid and reduce swelling.
