Abdominoplasty
After pregnancy, significant weight change or ageing, the abdominal wall can stretch and excess skin may develop. Exercise alone may not correct these changes. Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) surgery removes excess skin and, when clinically indicated, repairs separated abdominal muscles.
Dr Mark Hanikeri is a Specialist Plastic Surgeon (FRACS) based in Perth. Every abdominoplasty is planned individually following assessment, and outcomes vary between individuals. If the procedure is being considered for cosmetic reasons, a GP referral, two consultations and a cooling-off period are required in accordance with Australian regulations. Where the procedure is performed for medical reasons under an eligible Medicare item number, these specific cosmetic surgery requirements may not apply. Dr Hanikeri will advise which pathway applies, based on individual assessment.
Understanding Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck) Surgery
Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) surgery reshapes the abdominal area by removing redundant skin and fat and, where required, repairing stretched or separated muscles (rectus diastasis). It is sometimes described informally as surgery to remove a lower abdominal overhang, but it is more accurately known as abdominoplasty.
During a full abdominoplasty, an incision is made low across the abdomen, generally from hip to hip, and around the umbilicus (belly button). Excess skin and fat are removed, the abdominal muscles are tightened where indicated, and the remaining skin is closed with sutures. A scar across the lower abdomen is a permanent result of the procedure, and its appearance varies between individuals.
Who May Consider Abdominoplasty in Perth
Abdominoplasty may be discussed with people who experience:
- Overhanging abdominal skin that causes irritation or discomfort.
- Muscle separation following pregnancy (diastasis recti).
- Difficulty with clothing, hygiene or movement caused by skin folds.
- Functional concerns following weight change or previous abdominal surgery.
Suitability is assessed individually and depends on factors such as general health, a stable weight, whether you smoke, and your ability to follow the recommended recovery plan. A stable BMI below 30 is generally recommended, and Dr Hanikeri will confirm an appropriate range during consultation. Abdominoplasty is not a weight-loss procedure and is not a substitute for diet, exercise or bariatric surgery.
Please note: Dr Hanikeri performs this procedure for male patients only where there has been significant weight loss, not for purely cosmetic reasons.
Types of Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck) Procedures
Full abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) surgery in Perth: addresses the whole abdomen, removing excess skin and fat and tightening the underlying muscles where required.
Mini abdominoplasty (mini tummy tuck) surgery in Perth: focuses on the lower abdomen, where skin laxity is more limited. It involves a smaller incision and may not require muscle tightening.
Other techniques may be appropriate depending on the amount and distribution of excess tissue. Dr Hanikeri will discuss which approach suits your anatomy and medical assessment.
