One Step to the Results You Desire
An abdominoplasty with Sydney plastic surgeon Dr. Joseph Rizk seeks to restore the youthful, toned figure you lost following pregnancy, weight gain, weight loss, or naturally through gravity and ageing.
If you have recently experienced the joy of pregnancy or have lost a significant amount of weight, you may have excess fatty tissues or unsightly skin folds around the abdominal region, waist, and hips. A tight, firm stomach can be very difficult to achieve when saggy excess skin is present. At White Hill Clinic in Sydney, you can get the help you need to achieve a firmer, enhanced profile with our Sydney abdominoplasty.
Dr Rizk has performed many of these procedures for people with all types of bodies, so he has the experience you can trust to get the shape you’re looking for. With a modern, state-of-the-art Sydney clinic and experienced professionals, Dr Rizk provides you with a safe, personalised abdominoplasty to achieve that much-desired aesthetic, natural look for your stomach.
What is an abdominoplasty?
Abdominoplasty surgery aims to remove fat and extra loose skin from the abdomen and to restore the integrity of the core abdominal muscle (rectus abdominis). In most cases, it will restore weakened or separated muscles, and change the shape and tone of the abdomen to create a firmer and smoother profile. This change is made by surgically removing the excess tissue, correcting the structure of the underlying muscle, and then priming your body to heal itself well.
The surgery may take a day, but the positive results can last for years. It’s important to keep in mind that an abdominoplasty cannot stand alone as a replacement for a weight loss or exercise program. Abdominoplasty also generally does not get rid of stretch marks from pregnancy or excess weight, but these marks may be reduced if they’re in the area of excess skin that can be removed.
Not Sure if You're a Good Candidate for Abdominoplasty? Book a Consultation With Dr. Rizk
Types of ABDOMINOPLASTY
It is encouraging to know that there are several options when it comes to abdominoplasty. Each technique has benefits and drawbacks.
Patients considering an abdominoplasty are often uncertain of what type of abdominoplasty they may need. If you are a candidate, Dr. Rizk can advise you as to whether a mini abdominoplasty, full abdominoplasty, extended abdominoplasty, fleur-de-lis abdominoplasty, or body lift is the right approach. During your in-person consultation, Dr. Rizk will listen carefully as you voice your aesthetic concerns. He will then examine the pertinent areas to determine if you are a candidate. Drawing on decades of plastic surgical expertise, he will then curate a bespoke treatment plan that best reflects your cosmetic goals.
MINI ABDOMINOPLASTY
Mini abdominoplasty is a limited technique. It is reserved for patients with only a modest amount of excess skin and fat below the navel. The results are not as dramatic as a full abdominoplasty, and it does not include abdominal muscle repair. However, the scar is shorter, and the recovery tends to be easier.
- WHAT IT DOES: Treats excess skin/fat below the navel only
- PROS: Shortest scar; Fastest recovery
- CONS: Does not treat upper abdomen or sides; Does not include muscle repair
FULL ABDOMINOPLASTY
Perhaps the most common abdominoplasty procedure is the full abdominoplasty. This method treats laxity on both the upper and lower abdomen. It includes muscle repair, making it suitable for a broad range of patients that have experienced moderate weight loss or pregnancy. The results are more dramatic than a mini abdominoplasty, and the incision is generally concealed in the underwear line, so the scar is not visible in most styles of swimwear and lingerie.
- WHAT IT DOES: Treats excess skin/fat on the upper and lower abdomen
- PROS: Scar is usually hidden in bikini line; Includes muscle repair if needed
- CONS: Moderate downtime; Longer scar than a mini abdominoplasty
EXTENDED ABDOMINOPLASTY
The extended abdominoplasty is useful for treating laxity on the flanks as well as the upper and lower abdomen. This technique may include repairing abdominal muscle separation if needed. As the name suggests, this technique has an elongated incision across the lower abdomen and above the hips. The tail ends of the scar may be visible from the back as well, depending on the extent of the loose skin. While the results are more dramatic than a full abdominoplasty, patients must consider whether they are willing to live with a scar that may be visible in certain styles of undergarments and swimwear.
- WHAT IT DOES: Treats excess skin and fat on the upper/lower abdomen and flanks
- PROS: Tones the abdomen and hips; Removes more skin than a full abdominoplasty; Includes muscle repair if needed
- CONS: Long scar that may be visible in low-cut briefs and swimwear
FLEUR-DE-LIS ABDOMINOPLASTY
After extreme weight loss, some individuals find they have excess skin and pockets of resistant fat on the upper abdomen, lower abdomen, sides, and middle. In these situations, Dr. Rizk may advise fleur-de-lis abdominoplasty. Named after the water lily, this technique has two incisions: One horizontal cut across the lower abdomen from hip to hip, just like a full abdominoplasty, and an additional vertical scar on the central abdomen. The final scar resembles an inverted T. The vertical aspect of the scar will be apparent in two-piece swimsuits.
- WHAT IT DOES: Treats excess skin and fat on the upper/lower abdomen and sides
- PROS: Removes a significant amount of skin; Creates a narrower waistline; Includes muscle repair if needed
- CONS: T-shaped scar that is visible in bikinis; May require an extended hospital stay
LOWER
BODY LIFT
Massive weight loss through bariatric surgery, dieting, or exercise frequently causes lax skin circumferentially around the torso. The skin folds can lead to physical discomfort, rashes, chafing, and even limited mobility. For patients with a significant amount of redundant skin on the abdomen, hips, flanks, buttocks, and thighs, Dr. Rizk may suggest a lower body lift. Also known as a belt lipectomy, this technique yields a dramatic result since it removes the most tissue of all abdominoplasty procedures. However, it is considered a major surgery associated with a lengthy downtime. Because of the extensive nature of the surgery, it is sometimes performed as two separate procedures spaced several months apart. If additional areas, such as the inner thighs or arms, are of concern, Dr. Rizk may lay out a plan for a series of staged procedures.
- WHAT IT DOES: Treats excess skin and fat 360 degrees around the waistline
- PROS: Removes the most skin of all the abdominoplasty procedures; Lifts and tightens the abdomen, sides, buttocks, and thighs; Includes muscle repair if needed
- CONS: Longest scar; Extensive recovery; May require an extended hospital stay; May need to be staged as two separate procedures
REVERSE
ABDOMINOPLASTY
Rarely, a patient may only have excess skin and fat on the upper abdomen. A reverse abdominoplasty may be recommended in these cases. Unlike most abdominoplasty procedures, which leave a scar on the lower abdomen, this technique has an incision hidden in the natural breast crease. Dr. Rizk removes the excess tissue through the incision and pulls the skin flap upward. Ideal candidates have laxity on the upper abdomen only. In addition, they should have good skin elasticity on the middle and lower abdomen and not require abdominal muscle repair.
- WHAT IT DOES: Treats excess skin and fat on the upper abdomen only
- PROS: Hidden incision below the breasts
- CONS: Limited uses; Does not include muscle repair
Why does someone require an abdominoplasty?
An abdominoplasty might be needed after one or multiple pregnancies, massive weight loss, or obesity. Some men and women who have put in the long hours at the gym can also benefit from the aesthetic reshaping of their midsection. The symptoms one might present with include:
- weak abdomen
- dislike of appearance
- excessive fat pockets or loose skin in the region
If you currently struggle with any of these issues, Dr Rizk can assess you and determine if you would benefit from an abdominoplasty procedure. To further discuss your needs, book a consultation using the consult form on this page. The consultation will attract a Medicare rebate if you have a referral from your General Practitioner, lessening your costs.
What does Dr Rizk need to know from you during the consultation?
An abdominoplasty is a highly customised procedure. Because every person’s body is different, Dr Rizk knows that every abdominoplasty he performs needs to be tailored to every person’s individual condition, needs, and desires.
During your consultation, Dr Rizk will take a history and perform an examination. He will find out many things. Some points that are important include:
- Are you at your ideal weight?
- Can you take time off work to recover
- Who will help you at home during your recovery?
- Have you had children and would you want more?
- What is your general health like and can you handle surgery?
- What are your main reasons for wanting an abdominoplasty?
- Do you understand the procedure of abdominoplasty and have you fully understood the risks and potential complications?
Am I a candidate for an abdominoplasty?
Good candidates are generally in good health overall and are non-smokers. They don’t have any major health issues like heart disease, diabetes, or cancer. Also, they don’t have any active infections.
Women and men who are best suited for abdominoplasty are usually at or very near their ideal weight, and they are in a healthy state of mind. They understand the potential benefits and possible limitations of the surgery and maintain realistic expectations for their results. Dr Rizk advocates the National Law and Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) guidelines that any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks.
Your abdominoplasty procedure
Abdominoplasty procedures are highly individualised, so your exact procedure will follow the steps determined by Dr Rizk during your consultation and preparation visits.
After the sedation has taken effect, Dr Rizk will make a long incision below your stomach, usually just above the pubic region. A second incision is sometimes needed around the belly button if there is significant skin to be removed from the upper abdomen.
The length and shape of the primary incision entirely depend on the location and quantity of excess skin and fat to be removed. Once the skin has been opened, Dr Rizk will proceed to repair your abdominal muscles. Usually, this is done by using permanent stitches to tighten the weakened muscles into a stronger configuration. He will then trim away excess skin and suture the belly button into its natural position in the repositioned abdominal skin. Finally, Dr Rizk will use stitches to close the primary incision. He’ll then dress and bandage the wounds to ensure they’re protected and ready to begin healing. In some cases, Dr Rizk may insert small tubes to help fluid drain or apply a compression bandage to help limit the swelling.
Preparation
There will be some steps you will be asked to take leading up to your surgery. These may include ceasing smoking (if you smoke) for a few weeks leading up to your procedure, as well as adjusting some medicines or supplements (if you take them) that are known to lead to complications during and after the operation. Dr Rizk performs abdominoplasty as either an in-patient or out-patient procedure.
If your surgery is in-patient, you should plan to stay in the hospital or clinic for two to three days. If it is outpatient, you should be able to have a friend or family member take you home after the operation. However, in either case, you will need to arrange for someone to help care for you during the first 24-48 hours after you return home.
Not Sure if You're a Good Candidate for Abdominoplasty? Book a Consultation With Dr. Rizk
Abdominoplasty before & after
What to Expect During Recovery
From Your Abdominoplasty
During your recovery, you can expect some pain and discomfort in your abdomen for the first week or two. Dr Rizk will provide you with prescriptions for any pain medication, anti-inflammatories, or antibiotics needed for your healing process.
There will also be significant swelling and bruising on and around your abdomen for a few weeks. You should take care to avoid straining your healing skin or muscles during the first six weeks. At first, even walking or sitting up may be painful and difficult, so make sure you have arranged for assistance. You’ll need to avoid movements that can strain the muscles and positions — including bending and stretching — that can put tension on your incision.
You’ll probably need to wear an abdominal support garment or compression band for at least six weeks as well. This will help limit swelling and fluid retention. Dr Rizk will provide all of the instructions you need to promote a smooth and speedy recovery. Make sure to follow these instructions closely to prevent complications and achieve the most optimal results possible.
Abdominoplasty Results
After the swelling and bruising have subsided, you should readily notice dramatic results. Your flatter, firmer stomach should be obvious, and your regained contours should have you feeling more confident than you did before. Always remember that your long-term results are highly dependent on your maintenance of them. This means you will need to stay diligent with your balanced diet and regular exercise routine.
THE ABDOMINOPLASTY AND THE BIKINI LINE
Many patients find the Abdominoplasty scar is well worth the aesthetic improvements to their figure. That said, Dr. Rizk makes every effort to minimise the abdominoplasty scar as much as possible. In many cases, he can discreetly place the incision, so it is hidden by the bikini line. The resulting scar is all but invisible in most styles of clothing, undergarments, and swimwear, allowing his patients to enjoy a more shapely physique without displaying a prominent scar.
MAINTAINING ABDOMINOPLASTY RESULTS: THE ROLE OF DIET AND EXERCISE
While abdominoplasty can produce a beautiful result, it is up to the patient to maintain those results. Lifestyle factors can significantly impact how long an abdominoplasty lasts. Diet and exercise are the best ways to keep the abdomen firm and toned. The goal is not to shed kilos, as this may lead to further skin laxity. Instead, patients should maintain a stable weight by eating a balanced diet rich in protein and exercising regularly. Dr. Rizk will advise you when to exercise after abdominoplasty surgery, as the healing process can take several weeks to months.
- Do not crash diet
- Drink plenty of water
- Avoid consuming too many calories
- Exercise three to five times per week
- Be mindful of hidden calories in beverages
- Allow your body time to heal before returning to the gym
- Eat a varied diet rich in lean protein, fruits, and vegetables
- Skip big meals; Instead, eat several small meals throughout the day
What is the next step before abdominoplasty?
For patients wanting an abdominoplasty Sydney plastic surgeon, Dr. Rizk, will need to see you for an initial consultation. He will assess you and determine if you would benefit from an abdominoplasty procedure and if it has the potential to change your life for the better.
How much does an abdominoplasty cost and where does the consultation take place?
All of our consultations take place in White Hill Clinic in Sydney. He can, however, provide video consultations in some cases for an additional charge. For a guide on estimated costs, please contact our office on 1300 512 345 or email us using the consult form.
Dr Rizk advocates the National Law and Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) guidelines that any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
Why Choose Us
- Feel more confident and feminine in your appearance.
- Led by Dr Joseph Rizk, a world-renowned Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon.
- Personalised and detailed consultation with Dr Joseph Rizk to ensure your desired outcome is achieved.
- Experience superior post-operative care designed to minimise scarring, including complimentary 6-week aftercare to prevent complications.
- Benefit from 24/7 access to Dr. Rizk for any concerns, ensuring peace of mind throughout your recovery.
- Our on-site nurse is available around the clock to provide personalised support whenever you need it.
- Additionally, access exclusive 3D Crisalix reviews showcasing before and after results. See how you’ll look in various positions and outfits—from lying down to standing up, and wearing different clothes like bikinis or dresses. You can even view these results from the comfort of your home, ensuring confidence in your aesthetic outcomes.
About Dr Joseph Rizk
Award-Winning Reconstructive & Plastic Surgeon in Sydney The International Winner of Plastic Surgeon of the Year AUSTRALASIA (MyFaceMyBody Awards 2020), Dr Joseph Rizk is a trusted advanced Sydney Plastic Surgeon. He has undergone significant training to become an expert in body, face, and breast surgery. These are his exclusive areas of clinical practice. He has a particular interest in breast reconstruction. No matter what you’re looking to change with plastic surgery Sydney surgeon, Dr. Rizk, can help you realise your vision of your real you.
Dr. Rizk is celebrated for his meticulous surgical skills and innovative approaches, making him the go-to specialist for complex and intriguing plastic surgery cases. He has undergone numerous training fellowships in the Netherlands, Spain, New York and Dallas, keen to understand any cutting-edge treatment. His precision and dedication are unmatched, earning him the trust of both patients and peers.
Dr Rizk is an Australian-trained doctor who has also undertaken additional surgical fellowship training at the prestigious Dutch Association of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery in the Netherlands. Furthermore, Dr Rizk was a Postgraduate Fellow at The Children’s Hospital Westmead.
Joseph has visited UT Southwestern Plastic Surgery Department, Dallas, Texas, USA. He has cultivated new and innovative options for breast reconstruction with Dr Sumeet Teotia. The Plastic Surgeons at UT Southwestern are innovative and world leaders in Plastic Surgery. It was a very stimulating and useful period.
Dr Rizk became Australasia’s plastic surgeon of the year by making sure that each patient is heard, respected, and treated well. His patient-first approach provides you with the accurate medical information you need to make informed decisions about your course of treatment. At the same time, he offers his decades of knowledge and experience to help you along your path.
If your breasts are sagging or if you’d like fuller, perkier breasts and not sure where to start. We recommend speaking directly with Dr Joseph Rizk with a personalised consultation – this way, if you’re considering a breast augmentation, breast lift and fat transfer surgery or a different kind of breast surgery and want to know what your options are.
Qualifications
- Bachelor of Medicine; Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS), University of Sydney
- Bachelor of Medical Sciences (Hons 1), University of Sydney
- Specialist training: Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, New South Wales
- Fellowship of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS)
- Surgical Fellowship, Dutch Association of Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, Netherlands
Frequently Asked Questions About Abdominoplasty Procedures
Who is an abdominoplasty for?
We find that a wide range of women, and some men, are candidates for abdominoplasty.
This includes:
- Women post pregnancy wanting to regain their youthful figure via an abdominoplasty surgery.
- Women who have lost substantial weight and who want to remove the leftover skin.
- Men who have also lost weight are common patients for abdominoplasty.
- Either gender as they age and gravity starts taking effect, who want to look and feel younger.
Isn’t liposuction easier than an abdominoplasty?
Not exactly. Liposuction and Abdominoplasty surgery are quite different procedures. To find out more about liposuction click here.
Can men get Abdominoplasty?
Of course! Abdominoplasty surgery is quite common in men who have had a successful weight loss journey, and who want to remove the excess skin so they can truly enjoy their achievements. Although we don’t get as many male patients for abdominoplasty simply because men don’t go through pregnancy changes in their bodies, we do cater to a number each year.
What should I look for when choosing a surgeon to carry out my abdominoplasty?
Much like choosing a service provider to help you with any area of your life, we suggest going through a 3-step process:
- Research their reviews — If you research us on Google, you’ll find dozens of happy patients who we’ve helped with abdominoplasty.
- Check Their Credentials — As a licensed cosmetic surgeon, Dr Rizk has studied MBBS(Syd.), BMedSci(Hons 1), FRACS(Plast.), making him fully qualified for your procedure.
- Ensure You Get Along — Going through the process of abdominoplasty, it’s important that you get along with your surgeon. If you schedule a consultation, you’ll soon find out just why Dr Rizk is fast becoming one of Sydney’s favourite cosmetic surgeons.
Will private health cover the cost of abdominoplasty surgery?
You may be entitled to a rebate on your abdominoplasty from Medicare or your private health fund. Dr Rizk will advise you on if you may be eligible after your consultation.
What’s the difference between an abdominoplasty and a mini-abdominoplasty?
A mini-abdominoplasty is where the procedure is focused on removing loose skin below the navel. This results in a smaller incision, and not having to relocate the navel during surgery. Dr Rizk can help you determine which is right for you during your initial abdominoplasty consultation in Sydney.
When can you expect to see final results?
The ultimate goal of an abdominoplasty is to help achieve the tight, firm abdomen that dieting and weight loss alone sometimes can’t accomplish. Expect the swelling and recovery to take up to six months to reduce and for you to fully recover after your abdominoplasty.
What happens during recovery?
Recovery varies for every patient. On average your hospital stay will be two to four days. After your abdominoplasty, some pain and discomfort are usual. The abdomen will be tender during the healing process. You will be provided with postoperative antibiotics to help with the healing process.
What is reverse abdominoplasty?
For situations with extreme levels of excess skin, various forms of abdominoplasty can be used. One is known as “reverse abdominoplasty,” or a “reverse abdominoplasty” which is used after excessive weight loss. This technique can be used when excess skin is concentrated in the upper abdomen, rather than the lower region.
Can I combine an abdominoplasty with other procedures?
Of course! we can include other plastic surgery procedures such as liposuction, breast lift, breast implants, thigh lift, arm lift, or a butt lift. Abdominoplasty is just the beginning of what we can help you with when it comes to increasing your confidence in your body.
Where are you based?
You can find our practice in Stanmore, 6 kilometers southwest of the Sydney CBD.
No Guarantee of Outcome Disclaimer: This content is provided to help you make informed decisions about health treatments and procedures. However, it’s important to understand that individual results from medical treatments can vary. There are no guarantees of specific outcomes, and the content should not be interpreted as an assurance of beneficial treatment. We recommend discussing your expectations and concerns with a qualified healthcare professional.
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