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What is the Open Book Tummy Tuck™ (Abdominoplasty)?
The Open Book Tummy Tuck™ (OBTT) is a form of Abdominoplasty developed by Dr Eddy Dona for individuals who have experienced significant weight loss. These individuals have been left with an extensive amount of excess skin and require abdominal wall reconstruction. The procedure was developed to address this excess skin that other forms of Abdominoplasty cannot.
The procedure involves a horizontal incision across the lower abdomen, a vertical incision through the midline of the abdomen and an additional horizontal incision positioned beneath the breast folds. These incisions connect to form a pattern that enables excess skin and tissue to be removed from the lower, central and upper abdominal areas.
In addition to the scars left by the Fleur De Lis (Abdominoplasty), the Open Book Tummy Tuck™ (Abdominoplasty) has a third scar extending horizontally along the entire lower chest in the lower breast fold. In summary, the OBTT (Abdominoplasty) leaves the patient with three scars: a lower abdominal and lower chest scar joined by a midline scar.
This upper scar is necessary to allow maximal skin removal along the upper abdominal wall, which the standard and FDL Abdominoplasty procedures cannot achieve.
The term ‘Open Book’ describes the appearance of the abdominal tissues during surgery, in which the skin and underlying layers are temporarily opened, like the pages of a book, before being repositioned and closed.
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.
Dr Eddy Dona is a highly experienced specialist plastic surgeon who has dedicated much of his profession to Open Book Tummy Tuck™.
When considering Open Book Tummy Tuck™, it’s vital you consider your options and do your research carefully. Not all surgeons are equal – or have the same level of expertise and experience.
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:
Care Next Door – Post-Operative After-Care
Care For Family – Post-Operative Care Services
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
Potential Complications
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 >
