Partial Abdominoplasty

What is a partial abdominoplasty?

A partial abdominoplasty is a surgical procedure designed to address a small amount of excess fat and loose skin in the lower abdomen, below the belly button. It is less invasive than a full abdominoplasty and is often considered for individuals who do not require extensive abdominal muscle tightening or skin removal.

Who might consider this procedure?

A partial abdominoplasty may be considered for people who have:

A lower abdominal bulge or stubborn fat deposits below the belly button
Mildly stretched abdominal muscles, such as after pregnancy
Generally slim abdominal muscles but wish to achieve a more toned appearance
Excess skin or tissue in the lower abdomen after weight loss or gastric bypass surgery

A consultation with a qualified surgical practitioner is essential to determine whether this procedure is suitable for your individual needs.

What does the procedure involve?

Anaesthesia: The surgery is typically performed under local or general anaesthesia.
Incisions: Small incisions are made just below the belly button.
Fat and skin removal: Excess fat and skin are carefully removed.
Skin repositioning: The remaining skin is re-draped and shaped over the abdomen to create a smoother contour.
Optional procedures: In some cases, the partial abdominoplasty may be combined with other procedures such as liposuction, breast lift, or arm lift for enhanced results.
Duration: The procedure usually takes 1 to 3 hours, depending on the extent of treatment.

Recovery and aftercare

A compression garment may be recommended for 2–3 weeks following surgery.
- This helps support the healing process, minimise swelling, and improve skin adjustment.
Patients are usually advised to:
- Avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting for several weeks.
- Follow their practitioner’s guidance on wound care and follow-up visits.
Mild discomfort or tightness in the treated area is common during the early recovery period.

Possible risks and complications

Although a partial abdominoplasty is considered less invasive than a full abdominoplasty, it still carries certain risks, which may include:

Infection at the incision site
Bleeding or haematoma (blood accumulation under the skin)
Skin necrosis (poor healing of skin tissue)
Fluid accumulation under the skin (seroma)
Temporary swelling or discomfort

All surgical procedures carry some level of risk. Your surgical practitioner will discuss these with you during your consultation and provide advice on how to minimise them.

Key considerations

A partial abdominoplasty is not a weight-loss procedure.
It is most effective for individuals with mild to moderate concerns limited to the lower abdomen.
Results will vary depending on factors such as skin elasticity, muscle tone, and individual healing responses.
A personalised consultation is important to set realistic expectations and to determine whether this procedure is right for you.