Dr. Alexandra Turner Plastic Surgeon MBBS BSc FRACS MED00001125632

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Plastic Surgeon Adelaide Tummy Tuck Labiaplasty Weight Loss Surgery body contouring body lift

Weight Loss Surgery, Liposuction, & Tummy Tucks

Plastic Surgery procedures for the body include weight loss surgery (body contouring), body lifts, liposuction (lipectomy), "tummy tucks" (abdominoplasty), labiaplasty, "arm lifts" (brachioplasty), "thigh lifts" (thighplasty), and scar revision.

Abdominoplasty

Abdominoplasty, also known as a ‘tummy tuck’, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdominal area. This procedure may be considered by individuals who have loose skin in the lower abdomen, which can sometimes remain after significant weight loss. It is not a substitute for weight loss or exercise, and suitability varies depending on individual circumstances.

What's Involved

During the operation, the tummy muscles are visualised and if they appear stretched, the muscles are tightened. The operation usually involves a 3 night stay in hospital. A compression garment is worn for 6 weeks. Patients can usually return to work within 2-3 weeks.

Arm Reduction / Arm Lift Surgery (Brachioplasty)

Brachioplasty, also known as arm reduction, or arm lift surgery, is a procedure that involves the removal of excess skin and fat from the upper arms. It may be considered by individuals who have experienced significant weight loss or by those with skin laxity in the upper arm area due to ageing. The suitability of this procedure should be assessed by a qualified health practitioner based on individual needs and medical history.

What's Involved

This operation can be done as a day case or overnight stay in hospital. The scar lies on the inside of the arm, and occasionally may extend into the armpit area depending on the individual case.

Liposuction (Lipectomy)

Liposuction is an effective surgical procedure for the removal of localised fat deposits from specific areas of the body. It may be considered by individuals seeking to address areas of fat that have not responded to lifestyle measures such as diet and exercise. It is usually used within a body contouring procedure. It is not an operation for losing weight.

Thigh Lift Surgery (Thighplasty)

Thigh lift surgery, or thighplasty, is a procedure that involves the removal of  is for patients who have excess skin on the inner thighs. This surgery may be considered as an option by individuals who have experienced significant weight loss and have skin laxity in the thigh area.

What's Involved

The operation involves a general anaesthetic and usually a 2 night stay in hospital. During the operation the excess skin and fat is removed. You may need liposuction to the thigh as well. The scar runs vertically up the inner thigh and sometimes may extend along the groin crease depending on the individual case. A compression garment is recommended post-surgery for 6 weeks. This can be something as simple as a pair of tight cycling shorts.

Recovery time and return to work is usually 2-3 weeks.

Scar Revision

Some patients are left with unsightly scars either from trauma where the wounds were left to heal on their own, or from previous surgery. Scar revision can help improve and reduce the appearance of a scar, improve function restricted by the scar, and help with an itchy scar.

Labiaplasty

Labiaplasty is a surgical procedure that involves the reduction of the labia minora to address excess tissue that may cause discomfort, such as during physical activities or when wearing tight clothing. Some individuals may consider this procedure to address functional concerns or aesthetic preferences. It is important to understand that the appearance of the labia varies widely and there is no single “normal” appearance.

What's Involved

Labiaplasty is a day case procedure performed under sedation. The surgery involves reducing the size of the labia to a more acceptable size and shape. The scar is barely visible within a few weeks. Recovery is usually about 2-6 weeks.

Weight Loss Surgery (Body Contouring)

Body contouring surgery may be considered by individuals who have undergone significant weight loss, whether through bariatric surgery (such as gastric bands, sleeves, or bypasses) or lifestyle changes like diet and exercise. For some, excess skin may remain after weight loss, which may not resolve through further weight loss or physical activity. The suitability of body contouring procedures should be discussed with a qualified surgeon to determine if they align with individual health goals and medical needs.

What's Involved

The common procedures used in body contouring surgery include tummy tuck (abdominoplasty), arm reduction, thigh lift, body lift, breast reduction or breast lift (mastopexy), and in men, gynaecomastia (male breast reduction).