13 Friday, August 28, 2026| Gippsland Weekend Women’s 7th-11th september 2026 W Health Week For many women, navigating the physical changes that follow childbirth or significant weight loss can present lasting challenges that diet and exercise alone cannot resolve. According to regional medical specialists, permanent structural changes to the abdominal wall frequently require surgical intervention to achieve a lasting solution. Adrian Aitken, an experienced specialist general surgeon who operates at Maryvale Private Hospital, is highlighting how abdominoplasty, commonly known as a tummy tuck, can help restore abdominal contour and address associated hygiene and mobility issues. Childbirth commonly causes significant, permanent changes to a woman's abdomen. The process of carrying a child can severely stretch the abdominal wall, occasionally resulting in hernias or a condition known as diastasis recti (separation of the abdominal muscles). In the postpartum phase, many women experience permanent skin laxity, characterised by wrinkled skin and loose folds that can form an abdominal "apron." Beyond aesthetic concerns, these overlapping folds of skin can cause chronic hygiene issues, irritation, and physical discomfort. Similarly, individuals who experience dramatic and intentional weight loss, whether through lifestyle modifications or bariatric procedures such as lap band or gastric sleeve surgeries, often find themselves left with extensive folds of loose skin. To achieve a flat abdomen, an abdominoplasty is generally the accepted medical method. This procedure involves surgically excising the excess, hanging skin folds and physically tightening the underlying abdominal wall muscles. While any major surgical procedure represents a significant undertaking, patient outcomes are generally highly favourable, resulting in a flatter abdomen and the removal of the hanging skin overhang. The complexity of the operation, the required hospital stay, and the overall recovery timeline depend heavily on individual patient circumstances. Procedures can range from minor, localised skin excisions to more demanding, full abdominal reconstructions. For most patients, post-operative discomfort is manageable with standard pain management protocols. To help patients understand their options and determine the scope of surgery required, an initial professional evaluation is necessary. The cost of an abdominoplasty may be partially covered by private health insurance funds depending on the patient's level of cover and clinical necessity, or it can be entirely self-funded. A detailed, itemised quote is provided to patients at the conclusion of their initial consultation. Mr Aitken performs abdominoplasty and related reconstructive surgeries at Maryvale Private Hospital. For referrals, patient inquiries, or to arrange an initial consultation, community members can contact Fitzpatrick House in Sale on (03) 5144 4555 to speak with the clinic's administrative staff. Abdominoplasty explained A local wellness practitioner with more than four decades of experience in the mental health and disability sectors is hosting a dedicated women's empowerment event next month, aimed at fostering personal healing and resilience. Maree Tranter, founder of Soul Communication Gippsland, will facilitate the upcoming event on Saturday, September 5, 2026. The session is designed to provide regional women with practical strategies to manage stress, release limiting beliefs and cultivate a deeper understanding of the mindbody connection. Tranter's professional journey spans more than 40 years, during which she has worked extensively in disability support and mental health services. Over this time, she has developed a diverse therapeutic toolkit, qualifying as a Master NLP Programming Practitioner, a clinical hypnotherapist and a behavioural therapist. Tranter's practice focuses on helping women identify and address the root causes of personal distress. Her work frequently centres on supporting women through recovery from addiction, helping individuals process past trauma, and assisting clients in identifying and overcoming self-limiting mental blocks. Through Soul Communication Gippsland, Tranter offers several pathways for women seeking support. These range from immersive group experiences to highly personalised, private therapy sessions. Key programs include structured three- and five-day immersive retreats, weekend workshops, monthly goddess circles and oneon-one therapy. For further details regarding the location, registration fees, and schedule for the September 5 event, or to inquire about private therapeutic consultations, interested community members can contact Maree Tranter directly or visit the Soul Communication Gippsland social media pages. Empowering women
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy OTU5ODU=