Extended Abdominoplasty Melbourne

Excess skin and localised fat around the abdomen and flanks can develop as a result of significant weight loss, pregnancy, or ageing. These changes may not respond to lifestyle measures alone and can affect both physical comfort and body proportion.

Dr Gary Kode, Specialist Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon in Melbourne, offers a detailed and tailored approach to Extended Abdominoplasty procedures. His care model is based on continuity, surgical precision, and realistic goal setting. Dr Kode personally performs all aspects of the operation and remains involved throughout the recovery process.

From your initial consultation through to your post-operative follow-up, you will receive comprehensive support to help you prepare for surgery and understand the steps involved. Every treatment plan is developed with individual needs, anatomy, and medical history in mind.

What is an Extended Abdominoplasty?

An extended abdominoplasty is a surgical procedure designed to address excess skin and soft tissue across the lower abdomen and flanks. It is a more comprehensive version of a standard abdominoplasty (tummy tuck), extending the surgical area to include the sides of the torso, and in some cases, the upper hips.

The procedure typically involves:

• Removal of excess skin and fat across the front and sides of the abdomen
• Tightening of the abdominal wall muscles when required, particularly in cases of muscle separation (diastasis recti)
• Reshaping of the lower torso to support a more balanced appearance
• Low placement of scars, usually positioned to sit below most underwear or swimwear lines

Extended abdominoplasty may be considered by individuals who have experienced major weight loss or body changes after pregnancy, and who are left with excess skin and localised fat deposits that do not respond to diet or exercise.

Dr Gary Kode performs this procedure in accredited hospitals in Melbourne, using a personalised surgical approach tailored to each patient’s unique anatomy and treatment goals.

Who May Consider an Extended Abdominoplasty?

You may be considered for an extended abdominoplasty if you:

• Have excess skin and soft tissue across the abdomen and flanks that has not responded to lifestyle changes such as diet or exercise.
• Have experienced significant weight loss, pregnancy, or ageing that has resulted in changes to the skin and abdominal area.
• Have maintained a stable weight for several months prior to considering surgery.
• Experience physical symptoms such as skin irritation, difficulty wearing certain clothing, or discomfort due to redundant tissue.
• Are seeking options to address localised skin laxity or soft tissue concerns in the lower and lateral abdominal regions.
• Do not smoke or are willing to stop smoking well before and after surgery to support the healing process.
• Are in appropriate physical condition to undergo elective surgery, as determined during your consultation and assessment.
• Have realistic expectations and are prepared to commit to the required recovery process following surgery.

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, providing a high attention to detail throughout the procedure.

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

• Incision planning: Incisions are placed low on the abdomen, where possible, with the goal of making them less visible beneath typical underwear or swimwear garments. Placement is discussed and planned with each patient in advance.
• Liposuction integration: Where appropriate, liposuction may be used to assist in shaping the surrounding areas to provide a more comprehensive result.
• Layered closure techniques: Multiple layers of internal sutures may be used to support tissue reattachment and reduce the likelihood of fluid build-up beneath the skin, contributing to a more stable post-operative experience.
• Drain management: If surgical drains are required, they are placed with care and typically removed before the patient is discharged from hospital, depending on individual healing and fluid output.

Dr Kode’s approach is designed to support surgical planning that aligns with each patient’s unique anatomy and preferences. This personalised method also allows for consistency in care throughout the surgical and post-operative process.

All surgeries are performed under general anaesthetic at accredited facilities, including:

• Masada Private Hospital in East St Kilda
• Ramsay Surgical Centre Glenferrie in Hawthorn

Potential Benefits of Extended Abdominoplasty with Dr Gary Kode

Choosing Extended Abdominoplasty with Dr. Gary Kode offers several advantages:

Extended Abdominoplasty offers a range of potential benefits for selected individuals with excess skin and tissue around the abdomen, flanks, and lower back. These may include:

• Removal of redundant skin and tissue: Can address excess or stretched skin that may have resulted from significant weight loss, pregnancy, or ageing.
• Altered abdominal shape: Surgery can help tighten and reposition skin across the abdomen and sides to support a firmer appearance.
• Increased comfort/fit of clothing: Helps reduce the appearance of skin folds that can affect how garments sit and feel, particularly in fitted styles or activewear.
• Support for core muscle repair (when indicated): In cases of rectus diastasis (abdominal muscle separation), the procedure may include muscle repair to help strengthen the midline and abdominal tone.
• Reduction in skin-related irritation: May relieve physical discomfort such as chafing, rashes, or hygiene difficulties caused by excess tissue folds.
• Support for mobility and activity: Removing redundant tissue may increase physical comfort during movement and exercise.

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 tailor the surgical approach to reflect the individual’s body type and desired outcome.

Surgery Day

Patients are admitted to one of the accredited private hospitals (Dr Kode performs in), where all procedures are performed in a fully licensed operating theatre. A consultant anaesthetist administers general anaesthesia and monitors the patient throughout the procedure.

Dr Kode performs every part of the surgery himself, applying surgical techniques to address excess skin and tissue around the abdomen and flanks. Careful handling of surrounding structures helps reduce tissue trauma, which may assist with limiting bruising and swelling during the recovery period.

If required, surgical drains are placed to manage early post-operative fluid and reduce the risk of seroma formation. Quilting sutures are also used to support the healing process by reducing the space between tissue layers.

Post-Operative Care and Recovery

Recovery following Extended Abdominoplasty involves a structured plan to support healing and comfort. Patients are typically required to wear a supportive compression garment continuously for the first month. This garment helps manage swelling, provides structural support to healing tissues and may assist in guiding scar maturation. After this initial phase, the garment is generally worn during the day only for an additional two months. This helps maintain support while offering greater comfort at night.

Most individuals can resume light activities, such as walking, within 2-3 weeks, depending on how they feel and their individual progress. However, heavy lifting, core exercises, and vigorous physical activity should be avoided for approximately six weeks to protect the surgical site and allow the internal changes to settle and heal.

Regular follow-up appointments with Dr Kode are an important part of the recovery process. These reviews allow for;

• Close monitoring of healing
• Management of any drains (if used)
• Personalised guidance regarding scar care
• Activity levels as recovery progresses

Clear guidance is provided on scar management techniques, optimal nutrition and practical tips for safe resumption of everyday activities to support healing and recovery.

Risks and Considerations

As with any surgical procedure, extended abdominoplasty carries potential risks and complications, these can 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 or permanent.
• 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 reduce the likelihood of these risks occurring. Each patient is thoroughly counselled during the consultation process. This is to help them make informed choices 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?

Dr Gary Kode, Specialist Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon, is known for his considered, hands-on approach and focus on personalised surgical planning. Patients appreciate the consistency of care he provides, with direct access to Dr Kode throughout the entire surgical journey, from initial consultation through to post-operative reviews.

Each procedure is tailored to reflect the individual’s physical characteristics and surgical goals. Dr Kode recognises that no two patients are alike and plans each surgery to suit the person’s anatomy and needs.

His surgical technique is both detailed and considered, utilising both his understanding of structure and proportion with a focus on functional integrity. Every procedure is performed by Dr Kode himself, without delegation to assistants for surgical consistency and attention to detail.

Post-operative care includes scheduled follow-up appointments, personalised scar care recommendations and access to the clinical team should any concerns arise. This approach supports patients as they recover and adjust following surgery if required.

Dr Kode is widely regarded for his professional, compassionate manner and his thoughtful communication style. He is dedicated to helping patients feel informed and supported throughout their experience.

Moving Forward with Your Decision

If you are considering extended abdominoplasty in Melbourne, Dr Kode, offers a professional and supportive environment where your goals, safety, and satisfaction are his priorities.

By choosing Dr Kode, patients will receive individualised surgical planning, dedicated personal care and experienced surgical execution designed to achieve patients desired results. Contact Dr. Kode’s practice 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 you. Surgical procedures carry risks and require careful consideration and informed decision-making.

Further Reading

• Abdominoplasty Melbourne (Tummy Tuck)
• Circumferential Abdominoplasty Melbourne