Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck) Procedure in Sydney

What happens during an abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) in Sydney?

When you book your appointment to discuss abdominoplasty (tummy tuck), you will be sent a Patient Information Form. Completing this and returning it prior to your appointment will streamline your appointment.

Consultation appointments prior to your abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) in Sydney

You should expect to spend about an hour with Dr Gavin Sandercoe at your first consultation. During this time he will take a thorough history and perform an examination. Measurements of your abdominal dimensions, and the quality & thickness of overlying tissue, will help plan which is the most appropriate surgical technique for you. Digital photographs are taken to assist with planning and explaining any asymmetries or limitations.

Dr Gavin Sandercoe is a fully qualified Specialist Plastic Surgeon with training and experience in many techniques of abdominoplasty. He does not favour one particular technique – instead, he will help you understand which type of surgery will best suit your abdomen and your recovery needs.

Dr Gavin Sandercoe will discuss what you wish to achieve from your procedure. The risks and expectations of the procedure are then discussed and you are given a take home information package to review before your second consultation. A second consultation is required to give you the opportunity to ask more questions that may have arisen after reading your information package, and to confirm your aims and choices. You can sign your consent form at the second pre-operative consultation.

The day of your tummy tuck in Sydney

Dr Gavin Sandercoe only performs abdominoplasty in accredited hospitals and day surgeries, ensuring that your safety is paramount during and after your tummy tuck in Sydney. Prior to your operation, you will have planning marks drawn on you and a digital photograph taken.

You are put to sleep by a specialist anaesthetist (general anaesthetic), and pain relief and antibiotics are given through a drip before the operation is started. The antibiotic helps to prevent an infection from developing in the incisions, helping to minimise your post-operative risks.

The procedure begins with any required liposuction (usually of the flanks and love handles). The lower abdominal and umbilical incisions are made and the midline fat is lifted off the rectus muscles. The rectus muscles are then sutured back towards midline. Any additional fat is then thinned from the abdominal wall and the new position of your belly button is planned. Drains are usually placed into the abdominal wall. The incisions are then closed and dressings applied. Your surgical compression garment will be fitted before you wake up and go to the recovery room.

All abdominoplasty procedures are performed as an inpatient procedure, so you should expect to stay a few nights in hospital. Many patients feel well enough to leave after a few days, but there is no rush to get home if you do not feel up to it.

Learn more about the procedure for a tummy tuck in Sydney

If you’re interested in more detail about what the abdominoplasty procedure entails, here’s an animated video created by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons showing the procedure. Dr Gavin Sandercoe would also be happy to discuss the surgical process with you in detail and answer your questions about it during your consultation appointments.

Watch ASPS 3D Animation: Tummy Tuck

Click here to view Dr Gavin Sandercoe’s Abdominoplasty Before & After Gallery

What are the risks of an abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) in Sydney?

You can click on the above link to go to a webpage that discusses the risks of abdominoplasty or tummy tuck surgery. Alternatively, below is Dr Gavin Sandercoe‘s consent document that outlines the risks of an abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) in Sydney. Please read this document, and watch the video of the risks being explained, prior to your appointment with Dr Gavin Sandercoe.

Abdominoplasty Risks 2023 PDF