Extended Abdominoplasty Melbourne

Significant weight loss, pregnancy, or ageing can often lead to excess skin and stubborn fat around the abdomen and flanks. Based in Melbourne, Dr. Gary Kode, Specialist Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon, provides a personalised, meticulous approach to extended abdominoplasty. Dr. Kode is committed to patient-focused care, realistic outcomes, and precision surgery performed entirely by himself without the use of surgical assistants. His approach ensures patients receive continuity of care from the initial consultation through to post-operative recovery, allowing for a cohesive and trusted surgical experience.

What is an Extended Abdominoplasty?

An extended abdominoplasty is a surgical procedure designed to remove excess skin and fat from the abdomen, hips, and lower back. Unlike a standard abdominoplasty, the incision extends beyond the hip bones, allowing for a more comprehensive contouring of the torso. This broader approach enables surgeons to address sagging and tissue laxity that may extend around the sides of the body.

This procedure is particularly beneficial for patients in Melbourne who have undergone significant weight changes, and seek to improve their overall body shape and silhouette. It not only enhances the appearance of the abdomen but also restores smoother contours around the waist and lower back, promoting an overall proportional body appearance.

Every extended abdominoplasty performed by Dr. Gary Kode is tailored to the individual’s anatomy and aesthetic goals, ensuring a natural, balanced result. In addition to skin removal, underlying abdominal muscles weakened or separated by pregnancy or weight fluctuations can be repaired to enhance core strength and body contour, leading to functional benefits such as improved posture and reduced back pain.

Who May Consider an Extended Abdominoplasty?

Extended abdominoplasty may be suitable for individuals who:

• Have experienced substantial weight loss resulting in excess, loose, or hanging skin that cannot be addressed through exercise alone
• Have not had pregnancies and have good abdominal muscles that do not need repair. Patients requiring muscle repair are better off performing back and fron surgery in 2 stages
• Patients whose main problem is skin excess, more than skin and fat.
• Have stubborn fat deposits around the abdomen and flanks that are resistant to diet, exercise, and non-surgical treatments
• Are in good general health with a stable weight for at least six months, ensuring optimal surgical safety and recovery outcomes
• Are non-smokers or willing to cease smoking pre- and post-operatively to aid healing and minimise the risk of complications such as delayed wound healing
• Have realistic expectations regarding surgical outcomes and understand the recovery process, including the need for post-operative care and lifestyle adjustments

During a personalised consultation in Melbourne, Dr. Gary Kode thoroughly assesses each patient’s medical history, lifestyle, aesthetic goals, skin quality, and body proportions to determine the most appropriate surgical plan tailored to their unique needs.

Dr. Gary Kode’s Personal Approach to Extended Abdominoplasty

Dr. Gary Kode, Specialist Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon, brings a meticulous, hands-on approach to extended abdominoplasty in Melbourne. He performs every aspect of the surgery himself, ensuring high attention to detail throughout the procedure.

Key elements of Dr. Kode’s surgical approach include:

• Tailored, low-lying incision placement for discreet scarring, carefully planned to sit below typical underwear or swimwear lines, allowing patients to comfortably wear their preferred clothing styles post-recovery
• Strategic liposuction to enhance body contouring and create seamless transitions between treated and untreated areas, promoting natural-looking results
• Use of layered sutures to reduce the risk of fluid accumulation, minimising the need for extended drain use and contributing to a more comfortable recovery process
• Careful placement and management of surgical drains to support optimal healing and prevent seroma formation If drains are used, the are generally removed prior to the patients leaving hospital

All surgeries are performed under general anaesthetic at accredited facilities such as Glenferrie Private Hospital and Masada Private Hospital in Melbourne. Dr. Kode’s comprehensive, tailored methodology supports both aesthetic enhancement and functional improvement, always prioritising patient safety and individualised outcomes.

Key Benefits of Extended Abdominoplasty with Dr. Gary Kode

Choosing extended abdominoplasty with Dr. Gary Kode offers several advantages:

• One stage comprehensive contouring beyond the abdomen to include the flanks and lower back, effectively addressing loose skin and stubborn fat deposits that compromise overall body shape
• Smoother, flatter midsection tailored to the patient’s natural anatomy and proportionality, ensuring results that harmonise with the individual’s broader body structure
• Individualised surgical planning and execution by a Specialist Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon with extensive body contouring experience, providing patients with confidence in the safety and artistry of their procedure
• Focus on patient safety, realistic expectations, and ongoing support throughout the entire surgical journey, from consultation to recovery and beyond
• Trusted reputation across Melbourne for thorough surgical care, attentive post-operative management, and a commitment to achieving balanced, natural-looking results that align with each patient’s goals

The Surgical Journey: What Patients Can Expect

Consultation

Dr. Gary Kode conducts a comprehensive consultation in his Melbourne practice to understand each patient’s goals, assess their physical characteristics, and establish realistic expectations. This includes:

• Full medical history review to identify any factors that may influence surgical planning or recovery
• Thorough physical examination, focusing on skin quality, fat distribution, and muscle integrity
• Detailed discussion about surgical options, potential risks, and what patients can realistically expect from their extended abdominoplasty
• Clear explanation of pre-operative preparation, including nutrition, medications, and cessation of smoking if applicable
• Personalised planning to ensure a tailored surgical approach that reflects the individual’s body type and desired outcome

Surgery Day

On the day of surgery, patients are admitted to one of Melbourne’s leading private hospitals. Under the care of a highly experienced anaesthetic team, patients undergo general anaesthetic to ensure comfort and safety.

• Dr. Kode personally performs all aspects of the operation, utilising precise surgical techniques to achieve a smooth, natural body contour
• Attention is given to minimising trauma to surrounding tissues, reducing swelling, bruising, and promoting a faster recovery
• Surgical drains are placed if necessary, and quilting sutures are used to reduce dead space and aid healing

Post-Operative Care

Recovery milestones include:

• Wearing a supportive compression garment continuously for the first month to help reduce swelling, support the healing tissues, and encourage optimal scar formation
• Transitioning to daytime-only garment wear for an additional two months to maintain support while allowing greater comfort during sleep
• Gradual return to light daily activities within 2–3 weeks, such as gentle walking, while avoiding strenuous activities that could strain the abdominal repair
• Restriction of heavy lifting, core exercises, and intense physical activities for approximately six weeks to allow for complete healing of the muscle repair and skin closure
• Regular follow-up appointments with Dr. Kode to monitor healing, remove drains if placed, adjust post-operative instructions, and ensure scars are maturing appropriately

Clear guidance is provided on scar management techniques, optimal nutrition, and practical tips for safe resumption of everyday activities, ensuring a smooth and supported recovery experience.

Risks and Considerations

As with any surgical procedure, extended abdominoplasty carries some risks. Potential complications may include:

• Seroma (fluid collection) that may require drainage
• Wound healing issues, particularly in patients with diabetes, smokers, or those with compromised circulation
• Scar formation, with variations in scar thickness and pigmentation depending on individual healing responses
• Numbness or changes in skin sensation around the treated areas, often temporary but occasionally longer lasting
• Rare risks such as infection, bleeding, blood clots, or anaesthetic complications, which are managed with proactive peri-operative protocols

Dr. Gary Kode utilises meticulous surgical techniques, comprehensive pre-operative assessments, and careful post-operative management to minimise these risks. Each patient is thoroughly counselled during the consultation process to ensure informed, confident decision-making, supported by clear post-operative instructions and accessible follow-up care.

FAQs About Extended Abdominoplasty

Why Choose Dr. Gary Kode for Your Extended Abdominoplasty in Melbourne?

Patients choose Dr. Gary Kode, Specialist Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon, for his dedication to personalised care, precise surgical techniques, and honest, clear communication. His extended abdominoplasty patients benefit from:

• Direct access to the surgeon throughout the surgical journey, ensuring a consistent, trusted relationship from consultation to final review
• A tailored approach to each individual’s anatomy and goals, reflecting an understanding that no two bodies or aesthetic desires are alike
• Meticulous surgical technique with a strong focus on both aesthetic and functional outcomes, combining artistry and safety in every procedure
• Comprehensive aftercare with regular follow-up visits, scar management advice, and availability for patient concerns during recovery
• A trusted reputation across Melbourne for professional excellence, patient-centred care, and a compassionate approach that prioritises well-being and satisfaction

Based in Melbourne, Dr. Kode is recognised for his professional, compassionate approach and meticulous attention to detail, providing patients with confidence and peace of mind throughout their surgical experience.

Moving Forward with Your Decision

If you are considering extended abdominoplasty in Melbourne, Dr. Gary Kode, Specialist Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon, offers a professional and supportive environment where your goals, safety, and satisfaction are the top priorities.

By choosing Dr. Kode, patients benefit from individualised surgical planning, dedicated personal care, and expert surgical execution designed to achieve balanced, natural-looking results. Contact Dr. Kode’s practice today to schedule a consultation and explore your individual surgical options.

Please note: Individual results can vary. A thorough consultation is required to determine if surgery is appropriate for your needs. Surgical procedures carry risks and require careful consideration and informed decision-making.

Further Reading

• Read more about Abdominoplasty Melbourne (Tummy Tuck)
• Read more about Circumferential Abdominoplasty Melbourne