Body Contouring with Dr Bernard Beldholm

By Dr Bernard BeldholmMedicine Health & Fitness

Body Contouring with Dr Bernard Beldholm episodes

July 06How Long Do I Have to Stay in the Hospital After Abdominoplasty Surgery Post-Weight Loss
In this video, Dr Bernard Beldholm FRACS, Specialist Surgeon, provides an educational overview of how hospital admission and discharge are planned after tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) surgery in patients following significant or massive weight loss. He discusses key factors patients should understand, including surgical options, typical length of stay, discharge criteria, early mobilisation, and risks.
Main Points:
Typical hospital stay ranges from 1–7 days, depending on procedure extent and individual recovery.
Why post‑weight‑loss cases differ: larger treatment areas, longer operative times, higher likelihood of drains, and closer monitoring needs.
Procedure options discussed and how they relate to admission time:
Full abdominoplasty (tummy tuck): commonly at least overnight, especially if muscle repair is included.
Extended abdominoplasty: often 1–2 nights due to a larger surgical field and drains.
Fleur‑de‑lis abdominoplasty: generally ~2–3 days reflecting broader skin removal.
Circumferential abdominoplasty (belt lipectomy): commonly ~3–4 days as both front and back are treated.
Circumferential hybrid and dual vector abdominoplasty: admission varies with extent, often ~2–4 days.
Additional procedures that may alter stay:
Abdominal muscle separation repair (diastasis recti repair).
Hernia repair when indicated.
VASER liposuction (ultrasound‑assisted lipectomy) as an adjunct in selected cases.
What happens in hospital: recovery room monitoring after general anaesthesia, multimodal pain management, dressings and drain care, early mobilisation and breathing exercises, and daily clinical review.
Discharge criteria: pain controlled with oral medicines, safe mobility with assistance as needed, wound/drain stability, and a follow‑up plan in place.
Transition to home: arranging support for daily activities, compression garments or abdominal binder use as instructed, wound care guidance, and scheduled reviews.
Risks that may prolong admission: bleeding, infection, seroma or increased drain output, delayed wound healing, blood clots (DVT), respiratory issues, and difficulties with pain control.
Key reminder: hospital stay is determined by clinical progress rather than a fixed number of days; individual circumstances vary.
Check out the full article: How Long Do I Have to Stay in the Hospital After Abdominoplasty Surgery Post-Weight Loss
Book your appointment Online: https://beldholm.com.au/book-online/
Call us in Australia
tel:0249345700
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/
QUESTIONS ONLY - NO TESTIMONIALS IN COMMENTS DUE TO AHPRA GUIDELINES
For more information about surgical risks go to:
https://beldholm.com.au/about/disclaimer/#Cosmetic_Surgery_Complication_Disclaimer
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.
12 min
July 01Recovery After Circumferential Hybrid Abdominoplasty (Fleur-de-Lis Abdominoplasty Combined with Circumferential Abdominoplasty)
In this episode, I discuss recovery following a circumferential hybrid abdominoplasty — a combined Fleur-de-Lis abdominoplasty and circumferential abdominoplasty (belt lipectomy). This approach is most often considered after significant or massive weight loss when there is skin redundancy affecting the abdomen, flanks, lower back and upper buttock region. I outline what to expect from the early post-operative phase in hospital at Maitland Private Hospital through to longer-term healing at home, including dressings, compression, activity progression and follow-up.
What you’ll learn:
How a circumferential hybrid abdominoplasty differs from a standard abdominoplasty (tummy tuck), and why recovery is more involved when treating both vertical and horizontal skin excess as well as the entire waistline.
Typical hospital course (3–5 nights), early mobilisation, pain control, and the role of structured nursing support and daily surgical rounds while admitted.
Practical wound-care steps: use of PICO negative-pressure dressings in week one, transition to supportive tape dressings (e.g., Hypafix), and adjunct LED light therapy during early reviews.
Compression garment guidance (generally day and night for 4 weeks, then half-time for 2 weeks) and a week-by-week activity timeline, including posture changes, return to light tasks, and gradual exercise reintroduction with clearance.
Key risks and precautions: wound-healing problems, infection, seroma, scarring (including potential keloid formation), swelling, and considerations after abdominal wall muscle repair (diastasis recti) such as avoiding heavy lifting and core strain for 8–12 weeks.
This episode is designed for patients who have experienced significant weight loss and are exploring whether circumferential hybrid abdominoplasty is appropriate for their goals and health status. I provide factual guidance on recovery timeframes, follow-up scheduling (including more frequent visits in the first two weeks), sleeping position tips, and how stable weight and ongoing scar care may influence long-term outcomes.
Find more information in our overview article: Recovery After a Circumferential Hybrid Abdominoplasty
Book your appointment Online: https://beldholm.com.au/book-online/
Call us in Australia
tel:0249345700
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/
QUESTIONS ONLY - NO TESTIMONIALS IN COMMENTS DUE TO AHPRA GUIDELINES
For more information about surgical risks go to:
https://beldholm.com.au/about/disclaimer/#Cosmetic_Surgery_Complication_Disclaimer
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.
13 min
June 29Complications of Circumferential Hybrid Abdominoplasty
In this episode, I discuss the potential complications associated with circumferential hybrid abdominoplasty, a complex body lift (belt lipectomy) procedure that combines a fleur de lis abdominoplasty with a circumferential abdominoplasty. This operation is most commonly considered by patients after significant or massive weight loss, including following bariatric surgery, where there is extensive excess skin affecting the entire waistline. Given the scale of surgery, it is important for patients to have a clear, factual understanding of the associated risks, recovery considerations, and factors that influence outcomes.
In this episode, I cover:
What a circumferential hybrid abdominoplasty involves and how it differs from a standard tummy tuck (abdominoplasty)
Why the complication profile is higher compared with less extensive abdominal procedures
Common complications such as wound healing problems, seroma formation, infection, bleeding, and sensory changes
Less common but serious risks, including blood clots, skin necrosis, and systemic complications
The importance of pre-operative assessment, weight stability, nutrition, and close post-operative monitoring
This episode is designed for patients who are considering, or researching, circumferential hybrid abdominoplasty after significant weight loss. The aim is to provide balanced, educational information to support informed decision-making and realistic expectations around risks, recovery, and the need for careful surgical planning.
For detailed information, read the full article: Complications of Circumferential Hybrid Abdominoplasty (Combined Vertical with Circumferential Abdominoplasty)
Book your appointment Online: https://beldholm.com.au/book-online/
Call us in Australia
tel:0249345700
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/
QUESTIONS ONLY - NO TESTIMONIALS IN COMMENTS DUE TO AHPRA GUIDELINES
For more information about surgical risks go to:
https://beldholm.com.au/about/disclaimer/#Cosmetic_Surgery_Complication_Disclaimer
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.
18 min
June 24Circumferential Hybrid Abdominoplasty Combining a Vertical Lipectomy with Belt Lipectomy
In this episode, I discuss circumferential hybrid abdominoplasty, a comprehensive body contouring approach that combines a vertical lipectomy (Fleur-de-Lis abdominoplasty) with a belt lipectomy (circumferential abdominoplasty). This procedure is most commonly considered for patients following significant or massive weight loss who have excess skin affecting the abdomen in both vertical and horizontal directions, as well as the flanks, lower back, and buttock region. I explain why a single surgical technique may be insufficient in these cases and how combining established approaches can address complex patterns of skin laxity across the lower torso.
In this episode, you will learn about:
How massive weight loss can lead to circumferential and multi-directional excess skin
The differences between standard abdominoplasty (tummy tuck), Fleur-de-Lis abdominoplasty (vertical lipectomy), and belt lipectomy (circumferential body lift)
Why combining a vertical lipectomy with a belt lipectomy may be considered for selected patients
What surgical planning and patient selection involve for complex body lift (belt lipectomy) surgery
Expected recovery, scarring, and potential risks associated with circumferential hybrid abdominoplasty
This episode is designed for patients who have experienced significant weight loss and are seeking factual, educational information about advanced body contouring surgery. The discussion aims to support informed conversations with a qualified specialist surgeon by outlining indications, limitations, recovery considerations, and risks. Individual suitability and outcomes vary and can only be determined through a detailed consultation.
Find more information in my article: Circumferential Hybrid Abdominoplasty Combining a Vertical Lipectomy with Belt Lipectomy
Book your appointment Online: https://beldholm.com.au/book-online/
Call us in Australia
tel:0249345700
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/
QUESTIONS ONLY - NO TESTIMONIALS IN COMMENTS DUE TO AHPRA GUIDELINES
For more information about surgical risks go to:
https://beldholm.com.au/about/disclaimer/#Cosmetic_Surgery_Complication_Disclaimer
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.
12 min
June 22The Recovery Process for Fleur‑de‑Lis Abdominoplasty After Weight Loss
In this episode, I discuss what recovery looks like after Fleur‑de‑Lis abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) for people who have lost a significant amount of weight. I cover the incision pattern (a horizontal incision plus a midline vertical incision), the role of drains and compression garments, early mobilisation in hospital, and realistic timelines for returning to daily activities. As a Specialist Surgeon focusing on post‑weight‑loss body‑contouring procedures performed in accredited hospitals, I also outline how my team structures follow‑up to support healing.
What you’ll learn:
Preparation before surgery: Why a stable weight, a balanced diet with adequate protein and hydration, light exercise, nicotine cessation, limiting alcohol, medical/medication review for general anaesthesia, and arranging home support can help set up a consistent recovery.
What happens in hospital: The procedure under general anaesthesia; the horizontal and vertical incision pattern; when adjunct procedures such as suction‑assisted lipectomy (liposuction), hernia repair, or diastasis recti (abdominal muscle separation) repair may be performed; how drains are used; pain‑management strategies; compression garments; early walking; and a typical 2–4 day hospital stay.
Early postoperative care and dressings: Frequent follow‑up in the first two weeks (typically 2–3 visits per week) for wound checks and dressing management; PICO dressings in week one with transition to Hypafix tape after Day 7; adjunct LED light therapy may be used. Routine reviews then occur at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months; telehealth can be arranged when appropriate, and if travelling from out of area we generally recommend staying locally for the first week for early reviews.
At‑home recovery and activity milestones: Wearing compression garments for at least six weeks; short, frequent walks to support circulation; avoiding heavy lifting/strenuous exercise for 4–6 weeks; returning to desk‑based work around 2–3 weeks; driving once prescription pain medication is no longer required; and beginning scar care (for example, silicone gel) only after incisions have healed under clinical guidance.
Risks, watch‑outs, and factors that can extend recovery: Delayed wound healing or minor separation, infection, seroma (fluid accumulation), blood clots/deep vein thrombosis, and temporary or prolonged changes in skin sensation. Seek medical review promptly for increasing redness, unusual pain, drainage, shortness of breath, or calf pain. Additional procedures such as hernia repair or diastasis recti repair can lengthen recovery.
This episode is designed for patients considering Fleur‑de‑Lis abdominoplasty after major weight loss, as well as family or carers supporting recovery. I provide a clear, factual overview of timelines, dressings, compression garments, clinic reviews and potential risks so you can plan your recovery and discuss next steps with your GP and surgical team. This content is educational and aligns with AHPRA advertising requirements; individual advice requires consultation.
Find more information in my article: Recovering from Fleur-de-Lis Abdominoplasty Post-Weight Loss
Book your appointment Online: https://beldholm.com.au/book-online/
Call us in Australia
tel:0249345700
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/
QUESTIONS ONLY - NO TESTIMONIALS IN COMMENTS DUE TO AHPRA GUIDELINES
For more information about surgical risks go to:
https://beldholm.com.au/about/disclaimer/#Cosmetic_Surgery_Complication_Disclaimer
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.
29 min
June 17Complications After Fleur-de-Lis Abdominoplasty Post-Weight Loss — Evidence-Based Insights
In this episode, I discuss complications associated with Fleur-de-Lis abdominoplasty (Fleur-de-Lis tummy tuck) after significant or massive weight loss. I explain how this reconstructive operation differs from a standard abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) and extended abdominoplasty, summarise complication patterns reported in recent studies, and outline strategies that may help reduce risk before and after surgery. I also cover practical aspects of recovery, including wound care and when to seek review.
What you’ll learn:
Who may benefit from Fleur-de-Lis abdominoplasty (including post-bariatric patients) and why the vertical-plus-horizontal skin excision is selected over other techniques.
Common complications and their management: haematoma, seroma, wound healing issues at the T-junction, infection, bleeding, venous thromboembolism, nerve-related symptoms, scar concerns, and considerations when suction-assisted lipectomy (liposuction) is performed concurrently.
Evidence-based risk factors (for example, higher body mass index, diabetes, smoking, nutritional deficiencies, age, and resection weight) and how preoperative optimisation supports recovery.
Peri-operative measures used in accredited hospital settings, including anaesthesia considerations, early mobilisation, compression, and structured follow-up.
Recovery expectations: dressings, compression garments, activity progression, signs of complications, and the importance of timely review.
This episode is designed for patients considering post-weight-loss body contouring who want a factual overview of potential risks, typical recovery supports, and how individual factors influence outcomes. My aim is to provide clear information to support an informed consultation and shared decision-making.
Find more information in my article: Complication for Fleur de Lis Abdominoplasty Post Weight Loss: Evidence-Based Insights from Recent Studies
Book your appointment Online: https://beldholm.com.au/book-online/
Call us in Australia
tel:0249345700
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/
QUESTIONS ONLY - NO TESTIMONIALS IN COMMENTS DUE TO AHPRA GUIDELINES
For more information about surgical risks go to:
https://beldholm.com.au/about/disclaimer/#Cosmetic_Surgery_Complication_Disclaimer
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.
21 min
June 15Fleur‑de‑Lis Abdominoplasty Post‑Weight Loss
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
Book your appointment Online: https://beldholm.com.au/book-online/
Call us in Australia
tel:0249345700
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/
QUESTIONS ONLY - NO TESTIMONIALS IN COMMENTS DUE TO AHPRA GUIDELINES
For more information about surgical risks go to:
https://beldholm.com.au/about/disclaimer/#Cosmetic_Surgery_Complication_Disclaimer
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.
16 min
June 10 Recovering from Abdominoplasty after Weight Loss (Standard & Extended)
In this podcast, Dr Bernard Beldholm FRACS, Specialist Surgeon, provides an educational overview of recovery after standard and extended abdominoplasty. He discusses key factors patients should understand, including surgical options, recovery, and risks.
You’ll learn how surgery and recovery are structured in my practice, including inpatient care at Maitland Private Hospital, early mobilisation to reduce deep vein thrombosis (DVT) risk, and the role of compression garments and wound care. We cover the typical week‑by‑week recovery timeline, follow‑up reviews (in‑person and via telehealth), practical skin care, activity progression, and when to seek urgent review for possible complications (e.g., bleeding, infection, seroma/haematoma, DVT, or wound problems).
Book your appointment Online: https://beldholm.com.au/book-online/
Call us in Australia
tel:0249345700
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/
QUESTIONS ONLY - NO TESTIMONIALS IN COMMENTS DUE TO AHPRA GUIDELINES
For more information about surgical risks go to:
https://beldholm.com.au/about/disclaimer/#Cosmetic_Surgery_Complication_Disclaimer
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.
21 min
June 08Understanding Complications from Abdominoplasty After Major Weight Loss
In this podcast, Dr Bernard Beldholm FRACS, Specialist Surgeon, provides an educational overview of complications that can occur after abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) in patients who have undergone major weight loss.
The discussion focuses on common and less common complications, including wound-healing issues, seromas, bleeding, infection, nerve changes, and scar concerns. Dr Beldholm explains the factors that may influence risk—such as patient health, BMI, and surgical extent—and outlines how these are addressed during consultation and surgery planning.
This podcast is designed for patients who have experienced significant weight loss (through bariatric surgery or lifestyle changes) and are considering body-contouring procedures. It provides information to help viewers understand what to expect, what recovery involves, and why individualised assessment is essential.
Key topics include:
Types of complications (minor and major)
Risk factors and prevention strategies
Nerve-related issues and sensory changes
Scarring and wound healing
Importance of follow-up care and recovery support
Dr Beldholm also briefly discusses related procedures such as fleur-de-lis abdominoplasty, extended abdominoplasty, and circumferential lipectomy (belt lipectomy), which may be performed depending on the pattern of excess skin.
Book your appointment Online: https://beldholm.com.au/book-online/
Call us in Australia
tel:0249345700
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/
QUESTIONS ONLY - NO TESTIMONIALS IN COMMENTS DUE TO AHPRA GUIDELINES
For more information about surgical risks go to:
https://beldholm.com.au/about/disclaimer/#Cosmetic_Surgery_Complication_Disclaimer
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.
19 min
June 01 Medicare Coverage for Post-Weight-Loss Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) in Australia
Can Medicare cover a tummy tuck (Abdominoplasty) after weight loss in Australia?
The answer is sometimes — but only when strict medical criteria are met.
In this podcast, Specialist Surgeon Dr Bernard Beldholm explains when post-weight-loss abdominoplasty may qualify for Medicare, which MBS item numbers apply, and what documentation must exist before surgery is even considered.
Many patients assume Medicare or private health insurance automatically applies after losing weight. In reality, eligibility depends on documented medical necessity, not cosmetic goals.
This podcast explains the key rules Medicare uses to assess eligibility.
Book your appointment Online: https://beldholm.com.au/book-online/
Call us in Australia
tel:0249345700
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/
QUESTIONS ONLY - NO TESTIMONIALS IN COMMENTS DUE TO AHPRA GUIDELINES
For more information about surgical risks go to:
https://beldholm.com.au/about/disclaimer/#Cosmetic_Surgery_Complication_Disclaimer
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.
17 min

About Body Contouring with Dr Bernard Beldholm

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Dr Bernard Beldholm (MED0001186274) MBBS BSc(Med) FRACS is a registered medical practitioner and specialist surgeon (specialist registration in Surgery – general surgery). His rooms are in Lorn, in the Hunter Valley 30 minutes from Newcastle, and he operates every week at Maitland Private Hospital, which has an on-site intensive care unit and 24-hour medical cover. Every consultation and every operation is with Dr Beldholm, and reviews after surgery are with him and his surgical nurse for twelve months. A GP referral is required. For patients from outside the Hunter, including Sydney, the Central Coast and regional NSW, the first consultation can be by video; at least one consultation is in person before surgery.

His practice is focused on body contouring surgery after major weight loss, removing the excess (loose) skin that remains whether the weight was lost through bariatric surgery, weight-loss medication or diet and exercise. The operations include abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) and fleur-de-lis abdominoplasty; two combined operations for skin patterns a standard abdominoplasty does not address, the dual-vector abdominoplasty (fleur-de-lis with upper abdominal lipectomy) and the circumferential hybrid abdominoplasty (fleur-de-lis with belt lipectomy); belt lipectomy (body lift); brachioplasty (arm lift); thighplasty (thigh lift); bra-line lipectomy (upper back lift); gluteal lipectomy (buttock lift); monsplasty (pubic lift); and breast and chest surgery after weight loss, including torsoplasty (upper body lift) for men. He also performs abdominoplasty with repair of separated abdominal muscles after pregnancy, using a drainless technique with VASER (ultrasound-assisted) liposuction as part of the operation; breast surgery; gynaecomastia surgery; face and neck surgery; VASER liposuction; lipoedema surgery; and fat grafting.

General surgery training includes surgery of the abdominal wall, the breast and the skin; abdominoplasty and body-lift operations are abdominal wall operations.

He graduated from the University of New South Wales in 1999, completed accredited surgical training with the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons and was admitted as a Fellow (FRACS) in general surgery in 2009. He then completed two further years of supervised training in cosmetic surgery through the Australasian College of Cosmetic Surgery, now the Australasian College of Cosmetic Surgery and Medicine, and was admitted as a Fellow of the College in 2011. This fellowship is additional training; his specialist registration is in general surgery.

He publishes patient education: the podcast Body Contouring with Dr Bernard Beldholm, a YouTube channel, and written recovery and complications guides for the operations he performs.

Some operations may attract a Medicare rebate when the item-number criteria are met; eligibility is assessed at consultation.

Surgery carries risks and needs recovery time; results, recovery and complications vary from patient to patient. Full information is on Dr Beldholm's website under About, Complications and Recovery. You should seek a second opinion before proceeding.

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