Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck) Surgery in Perth with Dr Robert Owen
Intro
Abdominoplasty, commonly referred to as a tummy tuck, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat while tightening the underlying muscles to create a firmer and more toned abdominal area. Perth Specialist Plastic Surgeon, Dr Robert Owen performs Abdominoplasty in Perth Hospitals.
A well-defined abdomen may contribute to your physical comfort and health. However, factors such as pregnancy, ageing, and significant weight loss can result in excess skin and changes to the underlying abdominal muscles that may not improve with diet and exercise alone.
Meet Dr Owen
Dr Robert Owen, a specialist plastic surgeon based in Perth, Western Australia, has an interest in body contouring procedures, including abdominoplasty. He provides individualised treatment plans based on each patient’s goals, prioritising balanced and natural-looking results. With his experience, patients receive professional care in a safe and supportive environment.
2 hours
General
1 to 2 nights
6 weeks
Swelling can last for several months, so final outcomes are seen after 6-12 months.
Am I a suitable candidate for abdominoplasty?
- Suitable candidates are in good health, at a stable weight, and have excess skin or muscle separation.
- While abdominoplasty may addressbody contour, it is not intended as a weight-loss procedure. Dr Robert Owen advises that the most suitable candidates for surgery are those who are close to their optimal weight and maintain a healthy lifestyle. This helps to foster results and overall well-being.
Potential Medical Benefits of Abdominoplasty
Many individuals may consider abdominoplasty for various functional and aesthetic reasons, including:
- Excess abdominal skin following significant weight loss
- Separation of abdominal muscles (diastasis recti) following pregnancy
- Localised fat deposits that do not respond to diet and exercise
- A desire to improve abdominal muscle support and core stability
Types of Abdominoplasty
Full Abdominoplasty (muscle repair)
- Procedure: Removes excess skin and fat from the entire abdominal area, tightens muscles.
- Pros: Provides comprehensive correction, addresses both upper and lower abdomen.
- Cons: Longer recovery time, more extensive scarring.
Skin Only Abdominoplasty (mini)
- Procedure: Focuses on the lower abdomen below the belly button, involves a smaller incision.
- Pros: Less invasive, shorter recovery, minimal scarring.
- Cons: Limited correction, not suitable for patients with significant muscle separation.
Extended Abdominoplasty
- Procedure: Removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen and flanks.
- Pros: Suitable for post-weight-loss patients, adjusting waist contour.
- Cons: Longer recovery period, increased scarring.
Abdominoplasty Surgery – Step-by-Step
➔ Consultation – What to Expect
During a consultation with Dr Robert Owen, the following will be discussed:
- Medical history and lifestyle assessment.
- Personal goals and expectations.
- Surgical options and tailored recommendations.
- Explanation of risks, recovery, and expected outcomes.
➔ Preparation – Pre-op Guidelines
- Maintain a healthy diet and stable weight.
- Stop smoking and avoid alcohol, as they can impair healing.
- Follow any specific instructions provided by Dr Robert Owen.
- Arrange for post-operative support at home.
Anaesthesia – Type Used
Abdominoplasty is performed under general anaesthesia in an accredited hospital setting to support patient safety and comfort.
Surgical Steps – What Happens During the Operation
- Incision Placement – A horizontal incision is made, typically low enough to be concealed by underwear.
- Muscle Tightening – The underlying abdominal muscles are repaired and tightened.
- Excess Skin and Fat Removal – The surgeon carefully removes redundant skin and fat.
- Final Adjustments – The remaining skin is repositioned, and the incision is closed.
- Compression Garment Application – This helps to manage swelling and support healing.
➔ Duration – How Long the Surgery Takes
The procedure typically takes 2 to 5 hours, depending on the individual surgical plan and the extent of tissue adjustment required..
Abdominoplasty Recovery – Aftercare Timeline
Dr Robert Owen provides comprehensive aftercare guidance to support a steady recovery process.
➔ Immediate Post-Op (First 24-48 Hours)
- Patients are monitored in a hospital setting before being discharged.
- Pain and swelling are managed with prescribed medication.
- Limited movement is advised to avoid strain on the incision site.
➔ First Week
- Patients should rest and avoid bending or lifting heavy objects.
- Compression garments must be worn to manage swelling.
- Follow-up appointments with Dr Robert Owen are scheduled.
➔ First Month
- Gradual return to light daily activities is permitted.
- Swelling continues to subside, and mobility improves.
- Avoid intense physical activity and follow any surgeon recommendations.
➔ Long-Term Results
- Final outcomes become more visible over 3 to 6 months.
- Maintaining a stable weight and a healthy lifestyle will help preserve the results.
Abdominoplasty Risks & Possible Complications
Abdominoplasty is a major surgery, and it is essential for patients to be aware of potential risks. Dr Robert Owen takes all necessary precautions to manage these risks and prioritise patient safety.
➔ Potential Risks
- Scarring – While scars fade over time, they will remain visible.
- Infection – Proper wound care reduces the risk of infection.
- Bleeding or Haematoma – Rare but possible; requires immediate medical attention.
- Numbness or Sensory Changes – Temporary numbness in the abdominal area is common.
- Delayed Healing – Some patients may experience prolonged healing, especially smokers.
Cost of Abdominoplasty in Perth
The cost of abdominoplasty varies based on multiple factors, including:
- Surgeon’s Fees – Reflects the training and experience of Dr Robert Owen.
- Hospital Fees – Covers the cost of the accredited facility and nursing care.
- Anaesthesia Fees – Includes services provided by a qualified anaesthetist.
- Post-Surgical Care – Follow-up appointments and necessary medical garments.
FAQs
Find out more about your surgical journey
How long is the recovery process?
Most patients return to light activities within 2-4 weeks, with full results visible in 3-6 months.
Will I have visible scars after the surgery?
Yes, but they typically fade over time and are positioned low to be easily concealed.
Can a tummy tuck help with muscle separation?
Yes, abdominoplasty can repair separated abdominal muscles (diastasis recti).
When can I resume exercise after surgery?
Light activities can resume after a few weeks, but intense workouts should wait until at least 6-8 weeks post-surgery.
Will the results of abdominoplasty be permanent?
Results are long-lasting if a stable weight and healthy lifestyle are maintained.
What should I do to prepare for surgery?
Follow pre-op instructions from Dr Robert Owen, including diet, hydration, and stopping smoking.
Further Reading about Abdominoplasty
Links to other pages on the website
Medical References
• Abdominoplasty: My Preferred Techniques / PMC / https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7969168/
• Combined Liposuction and Tummy Tuck Offers Best of Both Procedures / Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery-Global Open / https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/press-releases/combined-liposuction-and-tummy-tuck-offers-best-of-both-procedures
• Trends in Abdominoplasty: More Outpatient Surgery and Concomitant Liposuction / Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery / https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/news/trends-in-abdominoplasty-more-outpatient-surgery-and-concomitant-liposuction-1
• Tummy Tuck / Mayo Clinic / https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/tummy-tuck/about/pac-20384892
• Abdominoplasty / StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf / https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK431058/
• Managing Complications in Abdominoplasty: A Literature Review / PMC / https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5621815/
• Abdominoplasty – Knowledge and References / Taylor & Francis / https://www.taylorandfrancis.com/knowledge/Medicine_and_healthcare/Dermatology/Abdominoplasty
Consultation with Dr Robert Owen in Perth
If you are considering abdominoplasty, Dr Robert Owen, a specialist plastic surgeon in Perth, can provide guidance.
To learn more or to schedule a consultation, please call or contact the team.
