Abdominoplasty

Am I a candidate?

• Post-pregnancy or post-weight-loss patients with loose skin or muscle laxity
• Those in good general health, at a stable weight, and non-smokers
• Patients with realistic expectations about scarring and the need for lifestyle maintenance

The procedure

• Performed under general anaesthesia; approximately 2–4 hours in an accredited facility
• Low bikini-line incision; navel repositioned in a full abdominoplasty
• Muscle plication (tightening), skin and fat excision; optional liposuction for contouring
• Mini abdominoplasty available for isolated lower-abdominal concerns
• An overnight hospital stay is typical

Recovery

• 2–4 weeks off work; gentle walking is encouraged from day 1
• Drains for 1–2 weeks; compression garment worn for 6 weeks
• No driving or heavy lifting for 2–4 weeks; full activity at 6–8 weeks
• Follow-up appointments weekly initially, then at 3 and 6 months

Risks & considerations

Risks include infection, seroma, poor scarring, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and temporary numbness. These are mitigated by compression garments, early mobilisation and specialist surgical standards. It is generally recommended to complete your family and reach a stable weight before surgery.

Medicare & rebates

A Medicare rebate may apply if you meet specific criteria — for example, documented diastasis recti (abdominal muscle separation) after pregnancy with associated symptoms, or significant weight loss with functional problems such as skin rashes. Otherwise abdominoplasty is a cosmetic procedure. Eligibility is assessed individually at consultation.

Medicare item numbers and eligibility criteria are set by the Australian Government and can change or be revised over time. Your current eligibility is confirmed at your consultation.