Circumferential Abdominoplasty Melbourne

Major body transformations, especially those following significant weight loss, can leave behind one frustrating and persistent issue: excess skin. Even with dedicated exercise and lifestyle changes, loose skin around the abdomen, flanks, and lower back may not respond. This can lead to physical discomfort, hygiene issues, and dissatisfaction with body image.

Circumferential body lift, also known as a circumferential abdominoplasty, is a surgical solution designed to address these concerns. The procedure removes unwanted skin and fat while reshaping the entire lower torso to achieve a smoother, more balanced appearance. In Melbourne, Dr. Gary Kode, a trusted Specialist Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon, offers this advanced surgery as part of his commitment to patient-centred, high-precision aesthetic care.

With decades of hands-on surgical experience, Dr. Kode performs every step of the procedure himself, ensuring a consistently high standard from planning to post-op recovery.

Am I a Good Candidate for Circumferential BodyLift

A thorough personal assessment is essential to determine your suitability. In general, ideal candidates are those who:

• Have good muscle tone and minimal separation of the rectus abdominis muscles, and mostly just skin excess. If muscle repair is required, Dr Kode prefers to perform the abdominoplasty first, and complete the procedure 6 months later.
• Have undergone substantial weight loss – This may be through bariatric surgery, pregnancy, or personal fitness efforts. Skin elasticity often doesn’t return fully after major volume loss, and circumferential abdominoplasty helps restore natural contours.
• Experience physical and functional symptoms – This includes rashes in skin folds, chafing, difficulties with mobility, or discomfort when wearing fitted clothing. These functional issues can impact day-to-day quality of life.
• Are aged between 20 and 70 – While there is no absolute age limit, patients must be medically fit. Younger patients tend to heal faster, but older patients can also achieve excellent results when cleared medically.
• Maintain a stable, healthy weight – Ideally, your weight has remained consistent for at least 6 months. Significant fluctuations post-surgery can impact results and surgical safety.
• Are non-smokers or willing to cease smoking – Smoking can delay wound healing and increase surgical risks. Dr. Kode advises patients to stop smoking at least six weeks before and after surgery.
• Have a BMI below 30 – A Body Mass Index above this level increases anaesthetic and wound healing risks. Some Melbourne hospitals, including Glenferrie and Masada, enforce BMI thresholds for elective procedures.
• Hold realistic expectations – Circumferential abdominoplasty can dramatically improve body shape, but it will not result in perfection. Dr. Kode ensures all patients are well-informed and emotionally prepared for the journey.

Types of Circumferential Abdominoplasty

Different body types and goals require different surgical strategies. Dr. Kode offers tailored approaches to match individual anatomy:

1. Full Lower Body Lift

• Involves a continuous incision around the lower torso.
• Targets loose skin and tissue across the abdomen, hips, flanks, lower back, buttocks, and even the upper thighs.
• Common among post-bariatric patients or those with extensive skin laxity after multiple pregnancies or aging.
• Allows 360-degree lifting and re-contouring of the lower torso, front and back

2. Extended Abdominoplasty

• Addresses the abdomen and lateral flanks, but does not lift the buttocks or posterior tissue.
• Can be combined with liposuction for additional contouring, especially of the mons pubis (pubic mound).
• Ideal for patients with localised skin excess in the front and sides but good posterior skin quality.

3. Fleur-de-Lis Technique

• Incorporates a vertical midline incision in addition to the lower horizontal scar.
• Allows removal of excess skin in both vertical and horizontal dimensions.
• Recommended for patients with extreme skin laxity, particularly following massive weight loss (e.g., 50+ kg).
• Results in additional scarring but often superior tightening and recontouring.
• It can be performed in one or two stages.

Dr. Gary Kode will help you determine the most effective option based on your goals, physical condition, and lifestyle. No two surgeries are the same—and your plan will be uniquely yours.

Surgery for Circumferential Body Lift

This is a complex procedure that demands advanced surgical skill and planning. Dr. Gary Kode performs this surgery under general anaesthesia in licensed private hospitals in Melbourne, including Glenferrie and Masada, ensuring a fully accredited and safe environment.

Procedure Overview:

• Pre-operative Planning: Detailed markings are made on your body while standing. These guide tissue removal and re-draping.
• Anaesthesia & Positioning: You are placed under general anaesthetic. The body may be repositioned during surgery to allow front and back access.
• Incisions: Made low across the abdomen and extended around the sides and back. These are planned to fall beneath underwear or swimwear.
• Muscle Repair: If abdominal separation (diastasis recti) is present, muscles are stitched together to restore core strength.
• Tissue Removal & Reshaping: Excess skin and fat are excised. Tissue is repositioned and contoured to create a smooth silhouette.
• Use of Quilting Sutures: Helps reduce dead space under the skin, which lowers the risk of seromas and improves healing.
• Drains Inserted: To manage fluid accumulation in the first few days post-op.
• Wound Closure: Precise, layered suturing techniques are used for optimal healing and scar minimisation.

Dr. Kode performs the entire operation personally, rather than delegating to assistants. This meticulous, hands-on approach ensures surgical integrity and individual attention throughout.

Photos/Gallery of Circumferential Abdominoplasty

Seeing real patient outcomes can help set expectations and aid in decision-making. Visit our online gallery of before-and-after photos, where you can explore:

• Visible changes in skin tightness
• Improvement in body contour
• Reduction of folds and volume around the lower body

These images are only displayed with explicit, written consent and represent a range of patient types and outcomes. Dr. Gary Kode believes in showcasing natural, balanced results, rather than promoting drastic transformations that may be unachievable for all patients.

Recovery After Circumferential Abdominoplasty

Recovery is a gradual process, and following post-operative guidelines is essential for the best results.

Hospital Stay

• Most patients remain in hospital for 1 to 3 nights for monitoring and pain management.
• Compression garments are applied before discharge.

Compression Garment Use

• First month: Worn day and night to support healing, minimise swelling, and improve contour.
• Following 2 months: Worn during the day only.
• Dr. Kode may recommend additional garments or changes based on individual healing.

Wound and Scar Care

• Hypafix tape used initially unless irritation occurs.
• Scar therapy options may be introduced later, including silicone sheeting, massage, or topical treatments.

Physical Activity

• Light walking from day one is encouraged to promote circulation.
• Most return to office-based work in 2–3 weeks.
• Strenuous exercise, lifting, and core training are typically delayed for 6–8 weeks.

Follow-Up & Support

• Dr. Kode personally reviews all patients during recovery.
• Post-operative support includes access to clinical nurses for dressing changes and phone support during office hours.
• Nutritional guidance, medication management, and lifestyle support are all part of the aftercare.

Patients are empowered to take an active role in their recovery—guided every step of the way by Dr. Kode and his experienced team.

Results of Circumferential Body Lift

Patients report a wide range of benefits following surgery:

• Enhanced body shape – Improved waistline, smoother transitions between torso regions, and a more athletic profile.
• Better clothing fit – Confidence in wearing fitted clothes, swimwear, and activewear.
• Functional relief – Reduction in chafing, rashes, and skin infections in folds.
• Improved posture and movement – Strengthening of abdominal wall may lead to better posture and reduced back pain.

Results Timeline

• Initial swelling resolves over several weeks.
• Refinement of shape continues over 3 to 6 months.
• Final results are often visible at the 6 to 12-month mark.

Dr. Kode aims to achieve realistic, lasting results that complement the patient’s body—not distort it. His goal is to restore physical comfort, confidence, and a sense of control over your appearance.

Scars with Circumferential Body Lift

Scarring is inevitable with this procedure, but placement and aftercare can make a significant difference.

Scar Characteristics

• Runs low on the abdomen, extending around the hips and back.
• Hidden beneath most underwear and swimwear styles.
• Typically flat and smooth if healing progresses well. Wound healing problems and poor scars are a problem in all major weight loss patients, as the structure of the skin is permanently changed.

Scar Management Options

• Hypafix or silicone tape
• Scar massage techniques
• Sun protection strategies
• Topical agents (as advised)

Dr. Kode will discuss your scarring risk profile and offer a personalised strategy to optimise long-term scar outcomes. While scars are permanent, they fade significantly and become less prominent over time.

Cost of Circumferential Body Lift

In line with AHPRA advertising guidelines, we do not publish specific prices. The overall investment in this procedure reflects several variables, including:

• Time required in theatre
• Hospital and anaesthetist fees
• Surgical complexity
• Use of additional procedures (e.g. liposuction, muscle tightening)
• Length and intensity of aftercare

Insurance and Medicare

• Some patients may qualify for Medicare support if the procedure meets specific medical criteria (e.g. excess skin causing rashes or hygiene issues).
• If eligible, private health insurance may assist with hospital and theatre costs.

A comprehensive, personalised quote will be provided during your consultation with Dr. Gary Kode in Melbourne.

Risks of Circumferential Abdominoplasty

All surgical procedures involve risk. Dr. Kode believes in open, honest discussion so that you are fully informed before choosing to proceed.

Potential Risks Include:

• Infection or wound separation
• Bleeding or haematoma formation
• Fluid accumulation (seroma)
• Unfavourable scarring
• Numbness or nerve irritation
• Asymmetry or contour irregularity
• Anaesthetic-related complications

Risk Reduction Measures

• Detailed pre-surgical planning
• Optimised patient preparation (e.g. BMI, smoking cessation)
• Meticulous surgical technique
• Early mobilisation and follow-up
• Use of drains and quilting sutures

Dr. Kode is committed to managing and addressing any post-op concerns promptly and professionally, always prioritising patient safety and wellbeing.

FAQS About Circumferential Body Lift

About the Surgeon: Dr. Gary Kode

Dr. Gary Kode is a Specialist Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon based in Melbourne, renowned for his skill, integrity, and commitment to achieving natural, long-lasting surgical outcomes. His practice focuses on:

• Facial rejuvenation
• Breast surgery (excluding reconstruction)
• Body contouring surgery, including complex post-weight-loss procedures

Why Choose Dr. Gary Kode?

• Performs every operation himself—without assistants
• He is Board Certified
• Emphasises natural, proportional results
• Offers thorough pre-surgical planning and post-op support
• Operates only in fully accredited Melbourne hospitals
• Prioritises ethical practice and realistic outcomes

Patients value his clear communication, surgical artistry, and the confidence he instils through every stage of their journey.

Interested in Circumferential Body Lift in Melbourne?

To learn more or book a private consultation with Dr. Gary Kode, visit our clinic, website or contact our team to schedule your appointment today.

Further Reading