Your Sydney Consultation with Dr Dona

The first step in determining whether an OPEN BOOK TUMMY TUCK™ (Abdominoplasty) is suitable for you is an initial consultation with Dr Dona.

During this appointment, your individual circumstances and expectations will be reviewed in detail. This discussion typically includes:

Your areas of concern and treatment goals
Your medical history and details of any previous procedures
A clinical assessment to identify the most appropriate surgical options

If you are considered a suitable candidate, Dr Dona will explain the procedure, outline what to expect during recovery, and discuss the potential risks, complications and associated costs.

The consultation also provides an opportunity to ask questions and ensure you have a clear understanding of the process before making any decisions about surgery.

Why Do People Request an OPEN BOOK TUMMY TUCK™ (Abdominoplasty)?

An OPEN BOOK TUMMY TUCK™ (Abdominoplasty) is a reconstructive procedure often discussed with individuals who have experienced substantial weight loss and are left with extensive excess abdominal skin and tissue. Issues often addressed with the OBTT™ (Abdominoplasty) include:

Excess skin affecting the lower, middle and upper abdominal regions and flanks
Separation of the abdominal wall muscles (rectus divarication)
A pubic or mons position that has descended or shows fullness, which can cause associated functional issues
The presence of an abdominal wall hernia that requires repair as part of the surgical plan

Each person’s needs and anatomy are different, so a detailed consultation with Dr Dona is necessary to assess these factors and determine the most appropriate surgical approach.

Combining the OBTT™ (Abdominoplasty) With Other Procedures

Following significant weight loss, areas such as the arms, chest, back, buttocks and thighs may show excess skin. Surgical reconstruction of these regions can be considered as part of an overall body contouring plan.

In some cases, other procedures, such as Breast Reduction, Bra Lipectomy or similar Body Contouring surgeries, may be performed in combination with an OPEN BOOK TUMMY TUCK™ (Abdominoplasty). However, this is assessed on a case-by-case basis and is subject to consultation with Dr Dona.

The suitability of combining procedures depends on several factors, including the extent of surgery required and overall health and safety considerations. Each patient is individually assessed to determine the most appropriate surgical plan. In some cases, procedures are staged over multiple surgeries to support recovery and reduce the risk of complications.

Practical considerations, including recovery requirements, personal circumstances and financial factors, are also reviewed when planning treatment.

OPEN BOOK TUMMY TUCK™ (Abdominoplasty) with a Bra Lipectomy

An OPEN BOOK TUMMY TUCK™ (Abdominoplasty) and Bra Lipectomy (also known as the Upper Body Lift) are procedures designed to remove redundant skin and reshape the upper back and outer chest wall, typically along the bra line. The incision for a Bra Lipectomy usually extends along the lower breast fold, aligning with the upper horizontal incision of an OPEN BOOK TUMMY TUCK™ (Abdominoplasty). When performed together, these procedures address both the front and back of the torso in a coordinated manner.

The appearance and outcome following these procedures vary from person to person. Individual results are influenced by factors such as anatomy, skin quality, lifestyle and genetic characteristics. The images shown are for illustrative purposes only and do not represent a guarantee of results, even for patients with similar body types.

OPEN BOOK TUMMY TUCK™ (Abdominoplasty) with a Belt Lipectomy

Following significant weight loss, redundant skin can develop in the lower back and upper buttock regions. Surgical reconstruction of this area is referred to as a Lower Body Lift, also known as a Belt Lipectomy. This procedure may, in some cases, be performed in conjunction with an OPEN BOOK TUMMY TUCK™ (Abdominoplasty), after careful assessment of each patient’s suitability and overall surgical plan.

Individual outcomes following these procedures can vary and are influenced by factors such as anatomy, skin condition, lifestyle and genetic characteristics. The images provided are intended for general illustrative purposes only and should not be regarded as a guarantee of any particular result, even for individuals with similar physical characteristics.

OBTT™ (Abdominoplasty) with a Breast Reduction, Breast Lift (Mastopexy) or Breast Augmentation

In some cases, an OPEN BOOK TUMMY TUCK™ (Abdominoplasty) may be performed in combination with a Breast Reduction, Breast Lift (Mastopexy) or Breast Augmentation procedure. This combined approach is considered only after a thorough consultation and assessment with Dr Dona to determine suitability and surgical safety.

Each patient’s treatment plan is individualised, taking into account their anatomy, medical history, functional concerns and desired aesthetic outcomes. The decision to undertake combined surgery is based on multiple factors, including surgical complexity, operative time, recovery requirements and overall safety considerations.

Outcomes following these procedures vary from individual to individual and are influenced by factors such as anatomy, skin quality, lifestyle and genetics. The images shown are for general reference only and should not be interpreted as a guarantee of specific results, even for individuals with comparable body characteristics.

OPEN BOOK TUMMY TUCK™ (Abdominoplasty) with a Brachioplasty (Arm Reduction)

Following significant weight loss, some individuals may experience redundant skin along the upper arms. Arm Reduction surgery, also known as Brachioplasty, can be performed to address this area. In selected cases, it may be appropriate to combine Brachioplasty with an OPEN BOOK TUMMY TUCK™ (Abdominoplasty) following a thorough consultation and evaluation of individual suitability.

Individual outcomes following these procedures can vary and are influenced by factors such as anatomy, skin condition, lifestyle and genetic characteristics. The images provided are intended for general illustrative purposes only and should not be regarded as a guarantee of any particular result, even for individuals with similar physical characteristics.

Recovery & the HeaLED Program

Following your surgery, recovery is carefully supported through a structured post-operative care program. Before your procedure, you will be provided with detailed information outlining what to expect and how your recovery will be managed.

Your post-operative care begins soon after surgery, with regular in-clinic appointments. During these visits, our Registered Nurses perform wound care, monitor healing and provide ongoing support. Dr Dona oversees each patient’s recovery progress and is available to provide additional care or review during the early stages of healing if required.

An essential part of this process is participation in the HeaLED Program. This program integrates evidence-based treatments and medical-grade skincare to support healing and scar management throughout the recovery period.

Components of the HeaLED Program include:
• LED Light Therapy – Used to help manage post-operative swelling and inflammation, contributing to comfort during recovery.
• Rejuran Therapy – A treatment containing polynucleotides that supports collagen development and assists with skin repair.
• Medical-grade Skincare – Specially formulated products that help maintain skin health and aid the maturation of scar tissue.

Where appropriate, microneedling may also be introduced as an additional part of scar management once initial healing has progressed.

Weight Loss Medications And Surgery

Patients using prescription weight-loss medications, including GLP-1 receptor agonists or dual GLP-1/GIP agonists, will need to take certain precautions before surgery. These precautions are designed to support safety during anaesthesia and throughout the surgical process. For full details, visit our Weight Loss Medications and Surgery information page, where you’ll find clear guidance and instructions.

Travelling From Out Of Town?

Patients from interstate or overseas often travel to see Dr Dona in Bella Vista, Sydney. To help with planning, an information page is available for patients travelling for surgery. It includes details on referrals, pre-surgery consultations, accommodation options, post-operative nursing support, transport and other practical arrangements.

Interstate patients may choose to have their initial consultation with Dr Dona via Zoom if this is more convenient. A subsequent in-person consultation will take place at the clinic before surgery.Overseas patients are required to attend their first consultation in Australia.

For those undergoing an OPEN BOOK TUMMY TUCK™ (Abdominoplasty), we recommend that you remain in Sydney for at least three weeks after surgery. During this period, you will attend regular in-clinic HeaLED post-operative appointments to help expedite your recovery process and optimise scarring outcomes.

Nursing and Home Support

After being discharged from hospital, you may experience some discomfort and will need to move carefully while limiting certain activities. It’s essential to have someone available to help with daily needs during the early recovery period.

Activities such as showering and other routine tasks may be difficult or restricted for the first couple of weeks. If personal support is not available, external nursing or home-care assistance can be arranged.

Patients with Private Health Insurance may have cover for these services, depending on their policy. It is recommended that you contact your health fund directly to confirm any available entitlements.

We suggest the following services.

HOME VISITS:

TRANSPORT

Several nursing transport services are available to help with travel from the hospital to our clinic for post-operative appointments.

MediRide (T 02 9666 7930)
National Patient Transfer

Can an OPEN BOOK TUMMY TUCK™ (Abdominoplasty) be performed with other procedures?

Following significant weight reduction, some individuals may develop redundant skin in multiple areas of the body, such as the arms, back, chest, buttocks and thighs. As a result, it is common for patients considering an OPEN BOOK TUMMY TUCK trademark symbol (Abdominoplasty) to also enquire about surgical reconstruction of additional regions.

In certain circumstances, procedures may be safely combined into a single operation. However, this is not always appropriate, as the suitability of combined surgery depends on several factors, including overall health, surgical complexity and recovery considerations. A formal consultation and assessment with Dr Dona is required to determine whether a combined approach is suitable.

In selected cases, the following procedures may be performed in combination with an OPEN BOOK TUMMY TUCK™ (Abdominoplasty):

• Bra Lipectomy
• Breast Augmentation
• Breast Reduction
• Breast Lift (Mastopexy)
• Belt Lipectomy (Lower Body Lift)
• Brachioplasty (Arm Lift)

How does the OPEN BOOK TUMMY TUCK™ (Abdominoplasty) differ from a standard Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)?

Other, more traditional methods can’t be compared to the OBTT™ (Abdominoplasty), as they are less extensive and designed to address lesser issues. They do not address the upper abdominal wall excess along the horizontal vector. They also fail to address flank excess adequately.

The standard Abdominoplasty is an excellent operation for addressing excess in the lower abdominal wall along the vertical vector.

The Fleur De Lis Abdominoplasty is also an excellent operation and adds to the Standard Abdominoplasty by addressing lower abdominal wall excess along the horizontal vector. However, it does not address upper abdominal wall horizontal vector excess. Therefore, the surgery will often cause issues such as enhancement of supraumbilical fullness, superior dog-ear deformity, and a vertical scar that ascends too high into the cleavage region and thus medialises the breasts.

The Open Book technique is the natural extension of these other Abdominoplasty techniques, the Standard and FDL, to address areas of concern that they do not address: the upper abdominal wall excess along the horizontal vector. When combined with other surgical procedures, namely the Belt Lipectomy and Bra Lipectomy, the Open Book technique provides excellent 360-degree torso recontouring.

How can I manage my scars after surgery?

Following your surgery, you will begin the custom Bella Plastic Surgery HeaLED Post-Surgery Care programme. This structured plan is designed to support wound healing and assist in the management of post-surgical scars. It incorporates a range of treatments and therapies that work together to promote recovery, support tissue repair and facilitate healing.

Treatments may include LED Light Therapy, Rejuran and the use of medical-grade skincare products as part of a comprehensive post-operative care approach.

Who may be at higher risk of wound healing complications after surgery?

All surgical procedures carry a degree of risk, including the potential for infection, bleeding, wound breakdown or skin and tissue loss. The OPEN BOOK TUMMY TUCK™ (Abdominoplasty) involves three extensive incisions, which may increase the likelihood of wound-related complications compared to procedures involving smaller incisions.

Individuals who may have a higher risk of delayed or impaired wound healing include those who are overweight, older, immunocompromised, diabetic or who smoke.

All surgical procedures involve potential risks and complications. It is essential to understand these and discuss any concerns during your consultation before deciding to proceed with surgery.

Find out more about the potential risks and complications related to surgery >

Specific risks & complications related to an OPEN BOOK TUMMY TUCK™ (Abdominoplasty) are the same as a standard Abdominoplasty >

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OPEN BOOK TUMMY TUCK™ (Abdominoplasty) Sydney

What is the OPEN BOOK TUMMY TUCK™ (Abdominoplasty)?