If you’re considering an abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) in Sydney, you’re not alone.
Many people struggle with loose skin, muscle separation and a loss of abdominal definition that exercise and diet simply can’t resolve, especially after weight loss or pregnancy.
Dr Rohit Kumar is a highly experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon based in Sydney who specialises in Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck surgery), particularly for patients who have undergone major weight loss.
With a focus on safety, precision and comprehensive patient care, Dr Kumar offers tailored surgical solutions to help you feel comfortable and confident in your body once again.
Located in Westmead, Penrith and Orange, Dr Kumar and his dedicated team provide expert guidance and support every step of the way.
What is Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck) Surgery?
Abdominoplasty, also called a tummy tuck, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdominal area. It can also tighten underlying abdominal muscles.
There are a number of different types of abdominoplasties that can be performed by your Sydney cosmetic surgeon. This includes a mini-abdominoplasty, a full abdominoplasty (tummy tuck), an extended abdominoplasty, a Fleur-de-Lis abdominoplasty, and if there is significant skin excess both in the front and the back, a circumferential body lift.
The procedure is often sought by patients who:
- Have lost a significant amount of weight
- Have loose or sagging abdominal skin after pregnancy
- Experience muscle separation (diastasis recti)
- Want to improve the contour and tone of their midsection
An abdominoplasty procedure may help return a more structured shape to your abdomen, help alleviate symptoms such as lower back pain and incontinence, as well as improve your core abdominal strength by addressing any issues with your rectus muscles (rectus diastasis). During pregnancy, these rectus abdominis muscles (6 pack) separate and stretch to allow the uterus and baby to grow. These muscles do not always return to their natural midline position after pregnancy. The waistline can then appear wider, and there can be an out-of-proportion bulging of the abdomen. An abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) removes this loose skin and tightens these abdominal muscles, improving contour and bulge.
During the abdominoplasty surgery procedure, excess skin is removed and the abdominal wall is tightened. The remaining skin is repositioned to look smooth and firmer. In many cases, abdominoplasty offers functional and aesthetic benefits, including improved posture and relief from back pain caused by weakened core muscles.
When you opt for a tummy tuck with Dr Kumar, any considerations and potential risks will be explained in detail as part of your initial consultation.
Types of Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck) Procedures Offered in Sydney
Not all tummy tuck ( Abdominoplasty) plastic surgery is the same. Dr Kumar offers a range of abdominoplasty and body contouring options for post-partum women and individuals who have experienced significant weight loss, each tailored to the patient’s specific needs.
Mini Tummy Tuck
- Suitable for patients with minimal loose skin and no significant muscle separation
- Involves a smaller incision and shorter recovery time
Full Abdominoplasty
- Most common type of ‘tummy tuck’ procedure
- Addresses excess skin, fat and muscle separation
- Ideal for post-pregnancy or post-weight loss patients
Fleur-de-Lis Abdominoplasty
- Recommended for patients with significant vertical and horizontal skin excess, often following massive weight loss
- Involves an additional vertical incision for more comprehensive skin removal
Circumferential Body Lift
- Extends the tummy tuck around the entire torso
- Targets the abdomen, flanks, lower back and buttocks
- Often performed on patients after significant bariatric surgery
Who is a Suitable Candidate for Abdominoplasty?
You are a good candidate for abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) surgery if you are:
- At a stable weight
- Not planning on future pregnancies
- In good general health
- A non-smoker or willing to cease smoking pre- and post-op
- Well-informed, with a detailed understanding of the recovery process
Patients who have experienced significant weight loss may be eligible for Medicare rebates if their procedure meets specific criteria, such as skin irritation or functional interference caused by excess tissue.
The Australian Federal Government also allows postpartum women access to Medicare assistance for abdominoplasty. This is provided that they can demonstrate ongoing muscle separation (diastasis) of 3cm or greater, causing pain and discomfort, and having issues such as lower back pain or incontinence. Please talk to our team to see if you may be eligible for this assistance.
Dr Kumar will assess your personal suitability for abdominoplasty plastic surgery during a comprehensive consultation.
The Pros and Cons of Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck) Surgery
Like all surgical procedures, Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) surgery involves benefits and potential risks.
Benefits of Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) surgery
- Smoother skin around your abdominal region
- Firmer abdomen
- A more contoured abdominal area helps define the underlying muscles.
- Greater abdominal muscle control (improved core strength)
- There may be an improvement in back pain.
- There may be improvements to continence.
- More options for choosing clothing and finding clothing that is more in proportion to the rest of your body
Risks & Considerations
- Abdominoplasty will not necessarily help you lose weight
- Some scarring is expected, though it typically won’t be easy to see
- The procedure requires downtime (time off work or study) and a commitment to post-operative care
Dr Kumar will help you understand the advantages and the limitations of the procedure before you go ahead
What to Expect During Your Surgery
Your journey begins with an in-depth consultation. During your first visit, Dr Kumar will:
- Review your medical history
- Conduct a physical examination
- Discuss your goals and expectations
- Recommend the most appropriate surgical plan
On the day of your abdominoplasty surgical procedure, you’ll be admitted to a licensed hospital and the procedure is performed under general anaesthetic.
Surgical Details
The length and placement of the incision will vary depending on the type of procedure
- Abdominal muscles are repaired and tightened where needed
- Excess skin and fat are carefully removed
- The incision is then closed with sutures, and dressings are applied
Recovery After an Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)
Recovery is a critical phase of your surgical journey. Dr Kumar and his team provide comprehensive aftercare to support healing and minimise risks.
General Abdominoplasty Recovery Timeline:
Day 1–2:
- Wake from your surgery in a semi-sitting position (you won’t be lying flat)
- Stay for three to four nights in hospital, wearing a compression garment.
- Tubes may be in place to drain fluid
- A catheter will be in place so you don’t have to get up to go to the toilet (all catheters and tubes will be removed before you are discharged)
- Nurses will be present
Week 1–2:
- Following discharge, you will return home for around two weeks of rest and reduced activity
- Compression garments are still worn to reduce swelling
- Temporary drains may be in place to prevent fluid build-up
- Light walking is encouraged to promote circulation
Week 3–4:
- Return to non-strenuous work and gentle activities
- Swelling continues to reduce
- Sutures are removed if they are not dissolvable – Dr Kumar uses dissolvable sutures the majority of the time in this procedure.
Weeks 6+:
- Gradual return to exercise and lifting
- Most swelling resolved
- Final results begin to appear.
While recovery time will vary from patient to patient based on the extent of surgery undertaken, you should plan for the following:
- At least 2 weeks off work
- No driving for at least 1 week
- No heavy lifting (more than 5 kgs) for 6 weeks
If you have young children, Dr Kumar strongly advises you have someone help with their care for at least the first 2-3 weeks post-operatively.
The abdomen feels “tight” for several weeks after surgery, as though you are wearing an internal corset. Numbness may be present around the incision and the belly itself. In some cases, it may be permanent. The scar begins to fade after 3 months and may take 1 to 2 years to reach its final appearance. The majority of bruising and swelling will resolve within 6 weeks, but can persist for several months.
It’s essential to follow your personalised recovery plan and attend all scheduled follow-ups with Dr Kumar for optimal outcomes.
Cost of Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck) Surgery in Sydney
Pricing for abdominoplasty surgery in Sydney can vary depending on the procedure type, complexity, hospital fees and individual factors.
What’s included in your abdominoplasty costs:
- Surgical fees
- Anaesthetist and hospital fees
- Post-operative garments
- Follow-up appointments
Medicare rebates may apply in medically indicated cases, such as post-massive weight loss, where excess skin causes functional problems, or post-partum. Private health insurance may also assist with hospital costs.
Why choose Dr Rohit Kumar for your abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) surgery in Sydney?
Dr Kumar is a board-certified plastic surgeon and a leading expert in body contouring procedures, particularly for patients who have experienced major weight loss.
A respected member of the Sydney Institute for Obesity Surgery (SIOS), Dr Kumar has performed hundreds of abdominoplasty procedures across Westmead, Penrith and Orange. His practice is built on trust, safety and attentive care from your first consultation through to final follow-up.
What Sets Dr Kumar Apart:
- Over 20 years of surgical experience
- Specialisation in post-weight loss and complex cases
- Compassionate, personalised approach
- Comprehensive aftercare and long-term support
Considering abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) surgery in Sydney?
Book a confidential consultation with Dr Kumar today and take the next step toward feeling more confident in your body.
