Circumferential Abdominoplasty Surgery in Melbourne Victoria

A Circumferential Abdominoplasty (also known as a Belt Lipectomy or Body Lift) is a surgical procedure that focuses on removing excess skin and fat, often after significant weight loss.

Dr Carmen Munteanu is a Melbourne-based Specialist Plastic Surgeon with extensive experience in post-weight-loss surgery. She offers a range of excess skin removal procedures tailored to the individual needs of patients. Dr Carmen works closely with each person to develop a surgical plan that supports their goals, overall health, and recovery.

If you are considering a Circumferential Abdominoplasty or have questions about post weight loss surgery, Dr Carmen and her team are here to assist. For more information, please contact our practice.

 

Guide Excess Skin Reduction
Guide Excess Skin Reduction

Download Dr Carmen’s Guide to Excess Skin Removal

Am I a Good Candidate for Circumferential Abdominoplasty Surgery?

Circumferential Abdominoplasty/Body Lift surgery may be considered by individuals that have lost a significant amount of weight may be considered by individuals who have experienced significant weight loss through procedures such as a lap band, gastric bypass or sleeve and mothers with post-pregnancy concerns. Suitable candidates must meet the following criteria: 

  • Have maintained a stable weight for at least six to twelve months
  • Are in good overall health
  • Are prepared for the commitment of a surgical procedure and recovery period
  • Have realistic expectations about what surgery can achieve
  • Are non-smokers or able to stop smoking for a recommended period before and after surgery
  • Are willing to follow pre- and post-operative care instructions

During your consultation, Dr Carmen will assess your individual situation, medical history, and surgical goals to determine if this procedure is suitable for you.

What are the Potential Benefits of Circumferential Abdominoplasty Surgery?

A Circumferential Abdominoplasty, also known as a Body Lift, may offer a range of potential benefits for individuals with concerns related to excess skin and soft tissue following significant weight loss. These potential benefits include:

  • Reduction in skin irritation, rashes, and discomfort that can occur in skin folds (such as intertrigo).
  • Relief from chafing, pulling sensations, and skin breakdown caused by excess skin.
  • Decreased risk of recurring skin infections in areas where excess skin folds over itself.
  • Increased hygiene and ease of maintaining skin health, particularly in hard-to-reach areas.
  • Reduction of excess skin and soft tissue from the abdomen, flanks, and lower back.
  • Changes in the appearance of the body following significant weight loss.
  • Increased comfort when wearing clothing and during daily activities.
  • Potential reduction in back pain that may result from the weight and pull of excess skin.
  • Increased ability to move more freely and engage in physical activities

It’s important to note that these are potential benefits and will vary for each person. This procedure is not a replacement for weight loss. Dr Carmen Munteanu will work with you to assess whether this procedure aligns with your needs and surgical goals.

 

Circumferential Abdominoplasty (Body Lift) Before and After Photos Gallery of Real Patients of Dr Carmen

See Circumferential Abdominoplasty (Body Lift) Before and After photos of real patients of Dr Carmen

Disclaimer: All before and after photos on this website feature actual patients who have undergone procedures performed by Dr. Carmen Munteanu, with their written consent for use. These images represent individual outcomes and may not reflect the results other patients will achieve. Factors such as genetics, overall health, and adherence to post-operative care can influence individual results. While these images provide a visual representation of potential results, they do not guarantee similar outcomes for all patients.

What can a Circumferential Abdominoplasty/Lower Body Lift address?

A Circumferential Abdominoplasty, also known as a Lower Body Lift, is a surgical procedure that focuses on removing excess skin and soft tissue from:

  • Abdominal area – either locally, or extending around the sides of the torso and the lower back
  • Buttocks – low, flat or unevenly shaped
  • Groin – excess skin around the inner thigh
  • Thighs – outer, inner or posterior thigh, or its circumference

It’s important to discuss your specific goals and concerns with Dr Carmen Munteanu, who will assess your suitability for this procedure based on your individual needs and health status.

What can an Upper Body Lift/Upper Truncal Lift address?

In contrast, an Upper Truncal Lift/upper body lift targets areas such as the chest, breasts and upper back to address excess skin and related concerns in those areas and may include:

  • Bra Line Back Lift/Posterior Upper Trunk Excision (targeting excess skin and tissue along the bra line.
  • Arm Lift/Brachioplasty
  • Breast Lift/Mastopexy

The Incision

A technique often employed for this procedure involves making an incision pattern that resembles the shape of a bikini. This allows for the removal of excess skin and fat across the abdomen, buttocks, thighs, waist, and groin in a single operation. The excess skin and underlying soft tissue (sometimes called the “apron”) is repositioned, and the remaining tissue is tightened. The incision typically extends around the circumference of the body to allow for a more balanced outcome.

Internal sutures (stitches placed in the deeper layers of tissue) are used to support the newly shaped areas. The skin is then closed using sutures, skin adhesives and/or surgical tapes, depending on the specific surgical plan.

The exact surgical approach will be tailored to your individual anatomy and goals. Dr Carmen will discuss the most appropriate technique for you during your consultation.

After surgery, dressings and bandages are applied to the incision sites to protect the area and support the healing process. In some cases, small temporary drains are placed under the skin to help remove fluid that can build up after surgery. These drains are usually removed a few days after your procedure.

Risks and Complications of Circumferential Abdominoplasty (Body Lift)

As with any major surgery, Circumferential Abdominoplasty carries potential risks and complications. While Dr Carmen Munteanu takes every precaution to promote optimal outcomes, it’s important to be informed about the possible issues that may arise.

Potential risks and complications include:

  • Bleeding – Some bleeding is expected after surgery, but excessive or uncontrolled bleeding may require medical attention.
  • Infection – Although rare, infections can occur at the incision sites or around the surgical area. This may require antibiotics or, in some cases, additional procedures.
  • Poor wound healing – Some areas of the incision may heal slower than others, leading to delayed healing, wound breakdown, or the need for additional care.
  • Fluid accumulation (seroma) – Fluid may collect under the skin, which might require drainage.
  • Blood clots (DVT or pulmonary embolism) – As with any major surgery, there is a risk of developing blood clots, particularly in the legs or lungs.
  • Changes in skin sensation – Temporary or permanent numbness, tingling, or altered skin sensation may occur near the surgical sites due to nerve disruption.
  • Persistent swelling or discomfort – Some patients experience prolonged swelling, bruising, or tightness as the tissues settle.
  • Tissue or skin loss (necrosis) – In rare cases, areas of skin or fat may not survive due to compromised blood supply, requiring further intervention.
  • Anaesthetic risks – General anaesthesia carries its own risks, including reactions to medications or breathing difficulties.

Dr Carmen will provide detailed pre- and post-operative care instructions, monitor your healing, and address any concerns during your recovery.

All surgery has risks for detailed information, please visit the risks and complications of surgery page.

Recovery from Circumferential Abdominoplasty

While immediate changes are visible after surgery, the final outcome will take time to settle as swelling subsides and the body adjusts. It’s important to understand that recovery after Circumferential Abdominoplasty (body Lift) is extensive and the initial phase can be challenging.

In the first days and weeks after surgery, patients can expect to experience significant swelling, bruising, and discomfort. Pain is often managed with prescribed medications and it’s important to rest and avoid strenuous activities. Some patients report a sensation of tightness, pulling, or pressure across the surgical areas, which is to be expected and will generally dissipate over time.

Bruising may extend across the abdomen, flanks, lower back, buttocks, and thighs, depending on the areas treated. Swelling can be widespread and may take several weeks or even months to settle.

While dressings and compression garments are typically worn to support the healing tissues and help reduce swelling, you may still experience fluid retention and temporary unevenness in shape as the body recovers.

Drains may be placed under the skin to remove excess fluid and are usually removed within a few days or weeks, depending on your progress. Dr Carmen will monitor your recovery closely through follow-up appointments.

Preparing for Recovery

Patients should prepare for a recovery period that may require several weeks off work and limited physical activity. Light walking is suggested early to reduce the risk of complications, but more vigorous activities like lifting, bending, and exercise should be avoided for several weeks. It’s important to follow Dr Carmen’s postoperative instructions closely to support recovery and achieve optimal outcomes.

Over time, as the body adjusts and tissues settle, patients often report an increase in comfort, ease of movement, and relief from symptoms related to excess skin. The scars will mature and fade over time, but it can take up to two years for the final result to fully develop.

Dr Carmen will provide personalised guidance on your expected recovery timeline, symptom management, and when you can resume various activities.

“Nourishing yourself in a way that helps you blossom in the direction you want to go is attainable, and you are worth the effort.” – Deborah Day

How much is a Circumferential Abdominoplasty (Body Lift)? – Surgery Costs & Fees

At your initial consultation, you will be given a detailed quote for your chosen procedure. This will include a Surgeon’s fee, Anaesthetist fee, Surgical Assistant fee and the hospital fees.

Dr Carmen’s team will provide you a customised fee for your surgery depending on the type of procedure, hospital and how long you want to stay in hospital. An approximate fee range for your surgery can be provided over the phone when you speak to a Patient Care Advisor. We also provide information on different methods of payment.

Find out more about Surgery Prices and Consultation Fees

Planning your patient journey

At your pre-surgery consultation, Dr Carmen Munteanu will discuss your goals and ascertain if you are a suitable candidate for the procedure. You will also be asked about any pre-existing medical conditions, current medications including herbal supplements and vitamins, and any allergies. Following a comprehensive evaluation Dr Carmen will then be able to advise you of your options and recommend what she feels is the right treatment course for your unique circumstances.

If you have any questions or concerns about this procedure, Dr Carmen will be able to address these at your consultation. 

Further Reading – Medical References

 

Further Reading with Dr Carmen