
What is Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)?
Abdominoplasty (commonly referred to as a Tummy Tuck) is a popular cosmetic procedure for both men and women in Calgary and throughout Canada. It removes the excess portion of abdominal skin which subsequently thins the fat layer over the abdominal area, creating a flatter and firmer midsection. Skin elasticity is lost as we age. Excess skin cannot be addressed with diet and exercise. Often weight loss can decrease the volume of fat in our body but for some individuals it can also increase skin laxity with less volume to fill and smooth out the skin. Tummy Tucks are most commonly requested by individuals after significant weight loss or after pregnancy.
At Macleod Trail Plastic Surgery, our certified and experienced Calgary Plastic Surgeons will customize your Tummy Tuck to suit your individual needs and aesthetic goals. The two most common types are: full abdominoplasty or mini (limited) abdominoplasty.
Full Abdominoplasty
- The Procedure: Your Plastic Surgeon will create an incision, low in the bikini line, spanning from hipbone to hipbone. The incision is placed low so that it can be covered by a bikini bottom or underwear. The skin is then undermined up to the rib cage and the excess portion of skin is removed. Any separation or diastasis of the abdominal muscles is repaired and the skin is then pulled down, tight and smooth. The belly button is the redefined and the incision is closed. The scar will fade and smooth out over time.
- Benefits: Removal of the excess skin in the abdomen which can result in you achieving the body you have always dreamt of!
- Ideal For: Anyone who has lost weight, wanting to remove the leftover lax skin or moms who are looking to regain their pre-baby bodies.
Mini-Abdominoplasty
- The Procedure: A smaller, horizontal incision is placed low in the bikini line. Any excess skin between the belly-button and incision is removed and the skin is pulled down tight and smooth. The incision is closed and will fade and smooth out over time.
- Benefits: Removal of excess skin with minimal scarring. The incision is placed low in the bikini line so that it can be covered by a bikini bottom or underwear.
- Ideal For: Individuals with minimal excess skin that is limited to below the belly-button.

