Extended Abdominoplasty After Weight Loss Sydney

Technical Explanation of the Procedure

Extended abdominoplasty after weight loss Sydney is surgery designed to remove excess abdominal skin and improve body contour after significant weight loss. Many patients lose weight through lifestyle change, bariatric surgery, or weight-loss medications such as Ozempic and Wegovy. However, after major weight reduction, loose skin often remains. In particular, patients may notice skin laxity across the lower abdomen, waistline, and flanks. As a result, the body can appear less defined despite improved health and fitness.

A/Prof Tim Papadopoulos (FRACS) performs extended abdominoplasty after weight loss in Sydney using an individualised surgical plan. Dr Tim assesses skin excess, abdominal wall support, fat distribution, and scar placement. He then discusses technique options, recovery, and realistic outcomes as part of informed consent. Importantly, results vary between individuals.

Why the Abdomen and Flanks Change After Weight Loss

After major weight loss, the abdomen changes in several ways.

For example:

  • skin loses elasticity and does not retract

  • abdominal muscles weaken or separate (diastasis)

  • laxity extends into the sides (flanks)

  • lower abdominal tissue can remain heavy or loose

Therefore, even lean patients may still experience excess tissue and poor contour.

What Extended Abdominoplasty After Weight Loss Can Improve

This procedure may help improve:

  • loose lower abdominal skin

  • excess skin across the flanks and hips

  • abdominal wall laxity (selected patients)

  • contour around the waistline

  • persistent overhang or “apron” skin

  • comfort in fitted clothing

However, extended abdominoplasty does not replace weight loss. Instead, it reshapes the abdomen once weight stabilises.

What Is Extended Abdominoplasty?

An extended abdominoplasty is a more comprehensive version of a standard tummy tuck.

A standard abdominoplasty focuses mainly on the front of the abdomen. In contrast, extended abdominoplasty after weight loss Sydney improves contour across:

  • the lower abdomen

  • the waistline

  • the flanks (love handle region)

  • the lateral hip transition

As a result, it suits many post-weight loss patients because skin laxity often spreads sideways.

Extended Abdominoplasty Technique Overview

Dr Tim performs extended abdominoplasty using carefully planned steps.

1) Incision placement

Dr Tim places a low incision along the lower abdomen. However, in an extended abdominoplasty, the incision continues further toward the hips. This extension allows greater skin tightening of the sides.

Dr Tim aims to keep the scar:

  • low

  • symmetrical

  • concealed by underwear or swimwear where possible

2) Skin and fat removal

Dr Tim removes excess skin and soft tissue from the lower abdomen. In addition, he sculpts the lateral contour to improve shape around the waistline.

3) Abdominal muscle repair (selected patients)

Some patients develop muscle separation. This can occur after pregnancy. It can also occur after weight changes. When appropriate, Dr Tim tightens the abdominal wall to support improved core contour.

4) Redraping and closure

Dr Tim redrapes the remaining skin. He then closes the incision in layers to support healing. This closure helps shape the abdomen while also supporting scar quality.

Extended Abdominoplasty vs Standard Abdominoplasty

Many patients ask which operation they need.

Standard abdominoplasty

May suit patients with:

  • mainly front-of-abdomen loose skin

  • minimal flank laxity

  • good waistline skin support

Extended abdominoplasty after weight loss

Often suits patients with:

  • loose skin across the abdomen and sides

  • flank overhang or “hip roll” laxity

  • post-massive weight loss skin redundancy

Therefore, extended abdominoplasty provides broader contour improvement.

Combining Extended Abdominoplasty With Other Surgery

Post-weight loss patients frequently consider combined planning. However, surgical safety always comes first.

Extended abdominoplasty may be staged or combined with:

Dr Tim confirms suitability for combined procedures during consultation.

Recovery After Extended Abdominoplasty

Recovery varies, because surgical correction differs among patients. However, patients often experience:

  • swelling and tightness early

  • temporary posture changes (walking slightly bent)

  • activity restrictions for healing

  • gradual contour improvement over weeks

Dr Tim provides detailed aftercare guidance. He also schedules follow-up to monitor healing and scar progression.

Risks and Important Considerations

All surgery carries risk. Extended abdominoplasty risks may include:

  • scarring (expected)

  • infection

  • delayed wound healing

  • fluid collection (seroma)

  • asymmetry

  • sensation changes

  • need for revision (uncommon)

Dr Tim discusses these risks clearly during consultation.

Suitability for Extended Abdominoplasty After Weight Loss in Sydney

Patients typically suit this surgery when they:

  • maintain stable weight for several months

  • have significant abdominal and flank skin excess

  • accept a longer scar as part of the trade-off

  • do not smoke (or can stop pre-op)

  • are medically fit for surgery

Suitability for extended abdominoplasty after weight loss in Sydney is confirmed during consultation.

Disclaimer:
All surgical procedures carry inherent risks. The information provided here is general in nature and should not be used as a substitute for an in-person consultation with a qualified specialist. Individual outcomes vary based on anatomy, healing, and adherence to post-operative care. A/Prof Tim Papadopoulos will discuss the potential risks, benefits, and realistic expectations during your consultation.

Safety, training and professional standards

A/Prof Tim Papadopoulos is a Specialist Plastic Surgeon (FRACS) and is registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). He is also a member and Past President of the Australasian Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (ASAPS).

Patients can also consult the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS) for information on surgical training and standards.

A/Prof. Tim Papadopoulos
Specialist Plastic Surgeon MED0001160037
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About Dr Tim Papadopoulos

SPECIALIST PLASTIC SURGEON

Dr Tim is a certified cosmetic and plastic surgeon, past president of the Australasian Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), a member of the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS). Tim is also an International member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Dr Tim is a member and Board Director of the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery and an international active member of the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.

He has undertaken 8-12 years of specialist training beyond his basic medical degree to become a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) which is the only institution accredited to train surgeons in Australia and New Zealand. He is the current Head of the Department of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery at Westmead Private Hospital.

As a Sydney plastic surgeon Dr Tim focuses on cosmetic surgery of the face, breast and body.

learn more

About Dr Tim Papadopoulos

SPECIALIST PLASTIC SURGEON

Dr Tim is a certified cosmetic and plastic surgeon, past president of the Australasian Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), a member of the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS). Tim is also an International member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Dr Tim is a member and Board Director of the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery and an international active member of the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.

He has undertaken 8-12 years of specialist training beyond his basic medical degree to become a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) which is the only institution accredited to train surgeons in Australia and New Zealand. He is the current Head of the Department of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery at Westmead Private Hospital.

As a Sydney plastic surgeon Dr Tim focuses on cosmetic surgery of the face, breast and body.

learn more
Dr Tim Sydney Plastic Surgeon
australian society of aesthetic plastic surgeons
australian society plastic surgeons
fracs royal australasian college of surgeons

Why Choose Dr Tim?

A Reputation For Safety
Dr. Tim is a highly experienced specialist plastic surgeon known for his commitment to patient safety, advanced surgical techniques, and meticulous care. He prioritizes evidence-based procedures to deliver natural-looking, long-lasting results.
Precision
With an exceptional eye for detail and surgical expertise, Dr. Tim ensures every procedure—whether facelift, body contouring, or breast augmentation—is performed with precision, artistry, and the latest medical advancements.
Your Wellbeing & Comfort
Dr. Tim takes a patient-centered approach, guiding you from consultation to post-operative care. He provides personalised surgical plans to help you make informed decisions, ensuring your safety, comfort, and satisfaction throughout your cosmetic surgery journey.
Professional Integrity
As a specialist plastic surgeon, Dr. Tim is dedicated to excellence in aesthetic surgery. His contributions to medical education, training future surgeons, and speaking at global conferences reinforce his reputation as a leader in the field of cosmetic surgery.
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