In this episode, I discuss when a Fleur‑de‑Lis Abdominoplasty (fleur‑de‑lis tummy tuck) is considered after significant weight loss, how it differs from a standard Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck), and what to expect from planning, surgery, recovery and risks.

What you’ll learn:

• Indications and candidacy: Why I consider a Fleur‑de‑Lis Abdominoplasty when excess skin is lax both vertically and horizontally; the importance of stable weight (ideally ≥6–12 months), non‑smoking status, adequate nutrition, and overall medical readiness.
• How it differs from a standard Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck): Use of both a low transverse incision and a midline vertical incision to remove redundant skin in two planes, with the option to repair diastasis recti (abdominal muscle separation).
• Operative plan and options: Pre‑operative markings, general anaesthesia, excision of excess skin, abdominal wall tightening, umbilical repositioning, and when I combine suction‑assisted lipectomy (liposuction)—often with ultrasound‑assisted VASER—and repair of small ventral, umbilical, epigastric or incisional hernias.
• Recovery pathway: Typical early hospital stay (2–3 nights) at Maitland Private Hospital with structured follow‑up, compression garments, dressing care (e.g., PICO/Hypafix), mobilisation, and milestone checks at 1, 3 and 6 weeks; scar maturation commonly progresses over 3–12 months, with telehealth available for regional patients.
• Risks to consider: Delayed wound healing, seroma, infection or bleeding, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism, changes in skin sensation, and the possibility of prominent scarring from both horizontal and vertical incisions. Medicare rebates may apply for some post‑weight‑loss patients who meet strict criteria; eligibility is assessed individually at consultation.

This episode is designed for patients who have achieved major weight loss and are assessing whether a Fleur‑de‑Lis Abdominoplasty is appropriate for their pattern of skin laxity and functional concerns. It provides an overview of the operative steps, recovery expectations and risks so you can discuss suitability with your GP and during a specialist consultation. Find more information in my article: Fleur‑de‑Lis Abdominoplasty Post‑Weight Loss

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From 1st July 2023, a GP Referral will be required for all procedures.

Dr Bernard Beldholm (MED0001186274) M.B.B.S B.Sc (Med) FRACS, is a Registered medical practitioner, Specialist surgeon (specialist registration in Surgery – general surgery) in Australia

Clinic Location

30 Belmore Rd Lorn, NSW 2320 Australia

Hospital Location

Maitland Private Hospital 175 Chisholm Road East Maitland NSW 2323

https://maitlandprivatehospital.com.au/

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ADULT content. Dr Bernard Beldholm M.B.B.S B.Sc(Med) FRACS is a Specialist General Surgeon (AHPRA Medical Registration nr: MED0001186274). Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from a qualified health practitioner. Results, recovery & potential complications will vary for each individual patient. Photos & videos featured are not a guarantee that your results will be the same & do not guarantee a particular surgical outcome. Content on our Instagram page & other social media pages is published with the consent of our patients. The content featured is general in nature and does not constitute medical advice. Immediate post-op results may differ from the final result.