Body Surgery
Abdominoplasty & Liposuction Melbourne
Dr Rodrigo Teixeira offers abdominoplasty and liposuction in Melbourne. These treat excess abdominal tissue, localised fat, and muscle separation. Each procedure is tailored to the patient’s anatomy, skin quality, and goals.
About Abdominoplasty
Abdominoplasty removes excess abdominal skin and fat. When needed, it also repairs muscle separation (rectus diastasis). It may be considered by people with changes after pregnancy, marked weight loss, or ageing. This is especially so when these changes affect comfort, function, or body shape.
Dr Teixeira takes a personal and measured approach to planning surgery. He considers the patient’s anatomy, symptoms, lifestyle, and goals. His focus is on careful planning and results in proportion to each patient’s anatomy and goals. A large US study of more than 25,000 abdominoplasties found major complications in about 4 in 100 patients.
Techniques
Types of Abdominoplasty Procedures
Several abdominoplasty techniques are available. The choice depends on where the excess tissue is and how much there is. It also depends on skin quality and muscle laxity. The right approach is decided during consultation. It is based on your anatomy, goals, and any underlying symptoms.
Full Abdominoplasty
A full abdominoplasty is usually advised when there is marked excess skin and tissue. It involves a longer incision across the lower abdomen and removal of excess tissue. It also involves tightening the abdominal wall and moving the navel to a new position (transposition). This allows full correction of both skin excess and muscle separation.
Mini Abdominoplasty
A mini abdominoplasty treats more limited excess below the navel. It uses a shorter incision. In some cases, the navel may be lowered slightly, but it is not transposed. Muscle plication can still be done if needed. This technique best suits patients with mild skin laxity and good upper abdominal tone.
Fleur-de-Lis Abdominoplasty
This technique is used when there is large vertical and horizontal excess. This is often after massive weight loss. It combines a horizontal incision with a vertical midline scar. This allows more tissue to be removed and a better contour.
Abdominal Muscle Separation and Repair
Abdominal muscle separation is also called rectus diastasis. It occurs when the connective tissue between the left and right rectus muscles stretches or weakens. This often follows pregnancy, weight changes, or strain on the abdominal wall.
When needed, muscle plication is done during abdominoplasty. It aims to restore core integrity and improve how the abdominal wall works. This may help with posture, support, and the look of abdominal bulging. It is not needed in every case. The decision depends on the degree of separation, the patient’s symptoms, and functional goals.
Liposuction (Lipoplasty)
Liposuction, or lipoplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes localised fat deposits and improves body shape. It may be done on its own or combined with abdominoplasty. This depends on where the fat sits and the quality of the skin over it.
Liposuction is not a treatment for skin laxity or muscle separation. Its success depends on factors such as skin elasticity, the area treated, and overall body make-up. It may be used to target areas such as the flanks, abdomen, or upper abdomen. This can help improve the surgical result.
Techniques in Liposuction
Several techniques may be used to help with fat removal and refine contour. The choice of method depends on the area treated, surgical goals, and factors specific to the patient.
Tumescent Technique: A fluid containing saline, local anaesthetic, and adrenaline is injected into the area. This is done to help fat removal, reduce bleeding, and improve comfort after surgery.
Power-Assisted Liposuction (PAL): A motorised cannula makes small, rapid movements to help break up fat before suction. This can improve precision and efficiency, especially in fibrous or larger areas.
Energy-Based Modalities: In selected cases, radiofrequency or ultrasound may be used to help break down fat. They may also support skin contraction, depending on the patient’s tissue type.
These methods are not interchangeable. They are chosen based on safety, anatomy, and the intended outcome.
Informed consent
Risks and Complications
All surgical procedures carry inherent risks. These vary with the type of procedure, your health, and how you heal. During your consultation, Dr Teixeira will discuss the risks that apply to your case. He will also give guidance to help reduce them through preparation and aftercare.
General risks may include:
- Bleeding or haematoma
- Infection or delayed wound healing
- Fluid build-up (seroma)
- Scarring or contour irregularities
- Temporary or permanent changes in sensation
- Skin or tissue necrosis (more likely in smokers)
- Anaesthesia-related side effects
- Unsatisfactory results requiring revision
Blood clots in the legs or lungs (DVT/PE) are uncommon but can be serious. In the same large study, the risk of complications was higher when procedures were combined, and prevention measures are used. The chance and severity of complications depend on several factors. These include the extent of the procedure, medical history, and following instructions after surgery. A personal care plan is given to support safety at every stage of your recovery.
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
Aftercare
Surgery and Recovery
Recovery after abdominoplasty or liposuction is carefully planned to support healing, safety, and comfort. Follow-up visits may be with Dr Teixeira or our registered nurse under his supervision. This means your progress is closely checked at each stage of recovery.
Walking starts in the first days. Many people return to desk-based work in two to three weeks. Strenuous exercise is usually avoided for about six weeks. However, recovery time varies with the procedure. A compression garment is usually advised for several weeks to support the tissues and control swelling.
Recovery Tips
- Rest and Gentle Movement: Short walks are encouraged early on to help blood flow. Avoid strenuous activity until cleared by the surgical team.
- Compression Garments: Wear the prescribed garment as directed to reduce swelling and support contour.
- Pain Management: Use prescribed medicine as needed. Follow your care instructions to stay comfortable.
- Healthy Habits: Drink plenty of water and eat a balanced diet to support tissue repair.
- Attend Follow-Up Appointments: Regular reviews help track healing and allow early action if needed.
A coordinated team approach means your recovery is supported both medically and practically. You have access to care and advice as you heal.
Combining procedures
Complementary Treatments at Unveil Aesthetics
Unveil Aesthetics offers a range of treatments to support surgical results or give extra non-surgical options. These may be advised before or after surgery. They are chosen based on your recovery stage, skin quality, and personal goals.
Options include:
- Radiofrequency and Ultrasound: Non-invasive energy-based treatments that may help with skin firmness and refining contour.
- Microneedling with Radiofrequency: Used to improve the look of surgical scars, stretch marks, and skin texture.
- Lymphatic Support and Massage: Gentle techniques such as Brazilian lymphatic drainage may be used for comfort. Evidence that it reduces swelling is limited.
These therapies are offered in consultation with the clinical team. They may form part of your tailored care plan after surgery.
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