Abdominoplasty, commonly referred to as a tummy tuck, is a surgical procedure to remove excess skin and fat from the abdomen and tighten the underlying muscles. Dr Mark Kohout, a Plastic Surgeon in Sydney, says “When Abdominoplasty is combined with BodyTite and Morpheus8, many patients may experience improvements in fat reduction, skin quality, and abdominal contour”.

This combination approach can address excess skin, localised fat, and skin texture simultaneously. However, results vary. Following Dr Kohout’s post-care instructions and understanding the potential risks and side effects is key to safe recovery. For personalised advice, a formal consultation with your surgeon is essential.

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Below is a list of frequently asked questions to help you understand the procedures, associated risks, and what to expect during recovery.

What is Abdominoplasty?

Abdominoplasty is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen while tightening the muscles. It’s often performed on individuals who have loose or sagging skin due to significant weight loss or pregnancy.

What is BodyTite?

BodyTite is a minimally invasive procedure that uses radiofrequency (RF) energy to liquefy fat and tighten the skin. It may be used alongside abdominoplasty to improve body contour by targeting fat deposits and enhancing skin retraction.

What is Morpheus8?

Morpheus8 is a microneedling treatment combined with RF energy to remodel deeper layers of the skin and stimulate collagen production. It can help improve skin texture, reduce the appearance of scars or stretch marks, and support long-term tightening.

How do these procedures work together?

Abdominoplasty removes excess skin and tightens the abdominal muscles.
BodyTite targets fat and promotes additional skin tightening.
Morpheus8 improves skin texture and supports collagen regeneration.

Together, these procedures may offer more comprehensive improvement in abdominal contour and skin quality.

Who is a suitable candidate for combining these procedures?

Suitable candidates include individuals who:

Have loose, sagging abdominal skin (e.g. from weight loss or pregnancy)
Wish to improve both skin and fat distribution
Are in good general health
Understand that results vary from person to person

What are the risks and potential side effects?

While the procedures are generally safe, there are risks to be aware of:

General Risks	BodyTite Risks	Morpheus8 Risks
Infection	Burns (rare)	Redness, swelling
Bleeding	Bruising, swelling	Mild bruising or pinpoint bleeding
Scarring	Temporary numbness	Temporary pigmentation changes (rare)
Anaesthesia complications

What is the recovery process like?

Abdominoplasty: Most patients resume light activities in 2–4 weeks. Compression garments must be worn and strenuous activity avoided.
BodyTite: Typically minimal downtime; mild swelling or bruising may persist for a few days to a week.
Morpheus8: Recovery is quick-most patients return to normal activities within 1–2 days.

How long will it take to see results?

Abdominoplasty: Improvements are seen immediately, with final results in 2-3 months as swelling resolves.
BodyTite: Skin tightening continues over 3-6 months.
Morpheus8: Gradual improvements in texture over 2-3 months.

Are the results permanent?

Fat removal and muscle tightening are long-lasting, but results depend on weight maintenance and overall health. Morpheus8 results may last a year or more and can be maintained with periodic treatments.

How long will I need to wear compression garments?

Most patients will need to wear compression garments for 4 to 6 weeks following abdominoplasty and BodyTite to reduce swelling and support healing.

Will there be scarring after the procedure?

Yes. Abdominoplasty involves a lower abdominal incision. Your surgeon will place it as discreetly as possible. Morpheus8 may help soften the appearance of scars over time.

When can I return to exercise?

Walking is encouraged early on, but strenuous exercise should be avoided for 4 to 6 weeks. Always follow your surgeon’s specific recovery guidance.

Is the procedure painful?

Abdominoplasty and BodyTite are performed under anaesthesia. You may experience discomfort during recovery, managed with prescribed medication. Morpheus8 is generally well tolerated using topical numbing cream.

Will I need drains after surgery?

In many cases, drains are placed after abdominoplasty to prevent fluid build-up. Your surgeon will explain their use and how long they’ll remain.

How soon can I fly after surgery?

Short flights may be considered after 1-2 weeks, but longer flights should be delayed for at least 4 weeks or until cleared by your surgeon.

Post-Care Instructions for Abdominoplasty with BodyTite and Morpheus8

Combining abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) with BodyTite and Morpheus8 provides a comprehensive body contouring solution, addressing excess skin, fat, and skin texture. Proper post-care is important to support a steady recovery and optimal results. Follow the instructions below to help you recover safely and effectively.

General Post-Care After Abdominoplasty with BodyTite

Rest and Recovery: Take at least 2 to 4 weeks off from work and avoid strenuous activities. Gentle walking is encouraged to promote circulation.
Compression Garments: Wear the garments provided for 4 to 6 weeks to reduce swelling and support healing.
Pain Management: Use prescribed pain medication as needed. Over-the-counter options may be suitable for mild discomfort.
Sleeping Position: Sleep slightly propped up with knees bent to reduce abdominal tension.
Wound Care: Keep incisions clean and dry. Follow your surgeon’s directions for dressing changes.
Avoid Smoking and Alcohol: Both can impair healing and increase complication risk.

BodyTite-Specific Post-Care

Swelling and Bruising: Common for several days to weeks. Continue wearing compression garments.
Resume Light Activities: Begin walking after the first week, but avoid lifting or strenuous activity for 2 to 3 weeks.
Avoid Heat Exposure: Steer clear of saunas, baths, and hot showers for 1 to 2 weeks.
Massage: Only begin if your surgeon recommends it, to assist healing and skin smoothing.

Morpheus8-Specific Post-Care

Moisturise: Use a gentle, non-irritating moisturiser to hydrate the treated skin.
Avoid Sun Exposure: Stay out of direct sunlight and use high-SPF sunscreen for at least 2 weeks.
Avoid Harsh Products: Skip exfoliants, makeup, and retinoids for 24-48 hours.
Hydration: Drink plenty of water to support skin healing and collagen stimulation.

Activity and Exercise

First Week: Focus on rest with light walking to reduce clot risk.
Weeks 2 to 4: Gradually resume light activities. Avoid anything strenuous.
Week 4 and Beyond: Slowly return to normal routines as approved by your surgeon.

Long-Term Results and Follow-Up

Swelling Reduction: Most swelling improves within 4 to 6 weeks. Final results may take up to 6 months.
Scar Care: Use silicone gels or scar treatments as advised. Morpheus8 may help soften visible scars.
Follow-Up Appointments: Attend all follow-up visits for wound checks and healing assessments.

Warning Signs to Watch For

Contact your surgeon if you experience:

Increased redness, warmth, or swelling
Pus or discharge from incisions
Persistent fever or chills
Pain unrelieved by medication
Sudden leg swelling (possible clot risk)

Before and After of Abdominoplasty Patients

Who May Not Be Suitable for Combined Abdominoplasty, BodyTite and Morpheus8

While this combination of procedures can be helpful for many people seeking abdominal contouring, it may not be appropriate for everyone. Suitability is always determined during consultation, but some general exclusions include:

Individuals with significant underlying medical conditions that impair wound healing (e.g. uncontrolled diabetes, immune disorders)
Active smokers who are unable to stop pre- and post-operatively, as smoking affects circulation and healing
People with unrealistic expectations, such as expecting a completely flat stomach or no visible scars
Patients planning future pregnancies or major weight loss, which could affect long-term results
Those unable to commit to post-operative care, follow-up appointments or lifestyle maintenance

Myth vs Fact: Tummy Tuck + Skin Tightening

Myth	Fact
Tummy tucks are only for women.	Abdominoplasty is commonly performed on men, especially after weight loss.
All results are visible straight after surgery.	Final results take several months as swelling gradually subsides and skin tightens.
Fat removed during surgery won’t return.	Fat cells are removed, but new ones can develop if weight is gained post-op.
Morpheus8 works like laser skin resurfacing.	Morpheus8 uses microneedling with radiofrequency, not light-based technology.
There won’t be any scars.	Surgical incisions always leave a scar, but their visibility often reduces over time with proper care.

Questions to Ask During Your Surgical Consultation

Preparing for surgery involves more than understanding the procedure – it’s also about getting clarity on your unique situation and expectations. Consider bringing these questions to your consultation:

Am I a suitable candidate for combining these procedures, or should I space them out?
How will you decide whether I need drains after surgery?
What kind of scar can I expect and how can I care for it?
What steps do you take to minimise risks like infection or poor wound healing?
How long should I wait before resuming regular daily activities?
If I gain or lose weight, how will it affect the results?
How often do you recommend follow-up appointments?
Will I need maintenance treatments like Morpheus8 in future?
How many times have you performed this combination of treatments?
What should I do if I notice a complication or unusual symptom?

Maintaining Your Results After Surgery

Surgical outcomes are long-lasting but not immune to change. To help preserve your results:

Maintain a stable weight through balanced nutrition and activity
Use your compression garments for the full recommended time
Stay hydrated and follow a skin-care routine that includes SPF and moisturiser
Follow your surgeon’s instructions on scar management and wound care
Return for any recommended maintenance treatments, especially if Morpheus8 was used
Attend your post-op reviews, even if you’re healing well

Consistency makes the biggest difference over time.

Conclusion

Combining abdominoplasty with BodyTite and Morpheus8 may offer a more tailored approach to body contouring by addressing loose skin, localised fat, and overall skin quality in one treatment plan. While many patients report satisfaction with their results, outcomes vary based on individual factors such as skin type, healing response, and overall health.

If you are considering this combination of procedures, the best first step is a thorough consultation with Dr Mark Kohout, Plastic Surgeon in Sydney. They can assess your specific needs, explain the potential benefits and risks, and help you determine whether this treatment plan is suitable for your goals.

To find out more or to arrange a personal consultation, please contact our clinic directly. We are happy to provide further information and answer any questions you may have.

Dr. Mark Kohout

Dr. Mark Kohout is a highly qualified specialist plastic and reconstructive surgeon with over 25 years of experience, based in central Sydney.

Trained in Great Britain, Australia, and the U.S., he co-founded Australia Plastic Surgery. Specializing in breast, genital, and male breast surgeries, he is a certified member of the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and the Royal Australian College of Surgeons (RACS).

Dr. Kohout has appeared in media like The Biggest Loser and has published several articles in his field.