Expert Tummy Tuck Surgery
In The Greater Toronto Area
Reveal Before & Afters (May Contain Nudity)
Tummy Tuck Surgery Before & Afters
What is a Tummy Tuck Surgery?
A tummy tuck (formally known as an abdominoplasty) is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen and surrounding area to create a flatter stomach, more defined waist and improved body contour. Aging, pregnancy and weight fluctuations can all contribute to excess skin and fat in the abdominal area and we offer a wide variety of tummy tuck procedures to address those concerns. At Valespring Cosmetic Surgery Institute, Dr. Stephanie Dreckmann will develop a surgical plan unique to your needs and will help you achieve your vision for your body. Dr. Dreckmann is a board-certified, highly talented plastic surgeon performing tummy tucks in the Greater Toronto Area.
Why Get a Tummy Tuck Surgery?
- Boost self-confidence and self-esteem
- Shrink the size of your stomach
- Remove excess skin from weight loss, aging and pregnancy
- Get a flatter and firmer stomach
- Remove fat that won’t respond to diet and exercise
- Improve the contour of your waist
- Repair stretched abdominal muscles
Am I Candidate for a Tummy Tuck Surgery?
Valespring Cosmetic Surgery Institute follows all guidelines from the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario to maximize patient safety, and Dr. Dreckmann will personally perform any necessary physical assessments during a consultation to evaluate your eligibility as a surgical candidate. The following are a general set of requirements to be an eligible candidate for tummy tuck surgery:
- Generally fit and healthy
- Body mass index (BMI) less than 35. Individuals with a BMI of 35-40 may be considered on a case by case basis.
- You can calculate your BMI here
- Smokers should quit smoking at least 4 weeks prior to surgery as well as after
- You have reached and are maintaining a stable weight
- You are not planning any future pregnancies
- Realistic expectations
- With a consultation at Valespring Cosmetic Surgery Institute, Dr. Dreckmann will help provide realistic expectations by aligning your desired body contour with your age, lifestyle, physique and proportions so that you have a clear idea of what you can expect in your final result.
Valespring reserves the right to turn down patients who do not meet the necessary physical or psychological criteria for cosmetic surgery, and would do so only because we make your health and safety our top priority.
Why Choose Dr. Dreckmann as your Tummy Tuck Surgeon?
Dr. Stephanie Dreckmann is one of the top tummy tuck surgeons in Canada, known for her specialized training in body contouring and extensive experience in tummy tuck procedures. At Valespring, we adhere to strict safety protocols and use advanced surgical techniques and state-of-the-art equipment to ensure patient safety and enhance surgical outcomes. Dr. Dreckmann employs innovative methods to maximize both safety and results, making your tummy tuck surgery experience as safe and comfortable as possible.
A Tummy Tuck Surgery Overview
Procedure
- All types of tummy tuck procedures require a horizontal incision on the lower abdomen, typically hidden by undergarments. The incision may vary in length depending on the type of tummy tuck and amount of skin being removed. Some more extensive tummy tucks require additional incisions around the hips, across the back, or a vertical incision along the front of the abdomen.
- After each incision is made and the excess skin and fat is removed, midline gaps between the abdominal muscles are repaired and the incisions are sutured closed, restoring tightness in the skin.
- Liposuction of the abdomen and flanks is often performed at the same time to enhance the aesthetic result
- The procedure takes roughly 3 hours for a standard tummy tuck
Anesthesia
- General Anesthesia so that the patient is fully asleep for the procedure.
- Alternatively, spinal anesthesia + sedation
Recovery
- Return to work after approximately 2 weeks
- Return to exercise after at least 6 weeks
- Final results are apparent around the 6 to 12 month mark after surgery
- A compression garment is typically worn for about 6 weeks after the procedure
- These numbers serve as a rough guideline, but you should always follow your surgical team’s specific and individualized recovery plan, as recommendations may vary from patient to patient
Types of Tummy Tuck Surgeries
Standard Tummy Tuck
(Standard Abdominoplasty)
A standard tummy tuck aims to contour both the lower and upper abdomen while tightening skin and abdominal muscles. A horizontal incision is made near the pubic hairline (typically hidden by underwear) and another incision around the belly button. Excess skin and fatty tissue are removed, abdominal muscles are tightened, and the remaining skin is stitched back together along the original incision. In the remaining abdominal skin, an incision is made where the belly button should lie and the belly button is brought through the incision and stitched into its original position.
Mini Tummy Tuck
(Partial Abdominoplasty)
A mini tummy tuck targets patients with a small amount of excess skin and focuses on the lower abdomen exclusively. The incision is made along the bikini line, similar to a standard tummy tuck, but the incision tends to be shorter. Loose skin and fatty tissue are removed from the lower abdomen and the remaining skin is stitched back together. Unlike a standard tummy tuck, it does not require the belly button to be moved or reconstructed, and it does not tighten abdominal muscles.
Belt Lipectomy
(360 Body Lift / Circumferential Body Lift / Circumferential Abdominoplasty)
A belt lipectomy is for patients who have loose skin and fat around their entire abdomen and back, or “belt” line. This usually results from significant weight loss. Incisions are made along the bikini line on the lower abdomen, around the flanks and across the lower back. Excess skin and fat is removed from both the lower abdomen and back to contour these areas and remove stubborn “rolls” of excess tissue.
Vertical Tummy Tuck
(Fleur-De-Lis Abdominoplasty / Vertical Abdominoplasty)
A vertical tummy tuck gets its name from the additional vertical incision required for the procedure. The vertical tummy tuck is used when skin needs to be tightened in the horizontal direction as well as the vertical direction. Since the vertical scar is not easily hidden, a vertical tummy tuck is usually reserved for patients who require the largest amount of abdominal correction, and are willing to tolerate a more visible scar for a more favourable abdominal contour.
Extended Tummy Tuck
(Extended Abdominoplasty)
An extended tummy tuck is similar to a traditional tummy tuck, but extends the horizontal incision around the hips. It is capable of removing more skin from a wider area than a traditional tummy tuck and is generally used for massive weight loss patients.
Drainless Tummy Tuck
Dr. Dreckmann is able to perform tummy tucks either drainless or with drains. She typically prefers to use drains as many of her tummy tucks are combined with liposuction of the area. The liposuction requires injection of a large amount of fluid and it is helpful to have a way for that fluid to escape via drains.
Let us guide you through your tummy tuck in Toronto
Book a Free Tummy Tuck Surgery Consultation Now!
How Much Does Tummy Tuck Surgery Cost?
Standard Tummy Tuck
$10500+
- Cost Includes:
- Standard tummy tuck procedure
- A small amount of liposuction to the flanks
- Compression garment
Vertical Tummy Tuck
$17000+
- Cost Includes:
- Vertical tummy tuck (fleur-de-lis)
- Compression garment
Mini Tummy Tuck
$8000+
- Cost Includes:
- Mini tummy tuck procedure
- Compression garment
Extended Tummy Tuck
$13000+
- Cost includes:
- Tummy tuck procedure with a longer scar to provide additional tightening of the abdomen and flanks
- Compression garment
Tummy Tuck with Liposculpture of Abdomen and Flanks
$14500+
- Cost includes:
- Tummy tuck procedure with a longer scar to provide additional tightening of the abdomen and flanks
- Compression garment
Belt Lipectomy / Lower Body Lift / 360 Tummy Tuck
$21000+
- Cost includes:
- Belt lipectomy procedure
- Compression garment
Optional Overnight Stay
Price unavailable
Patients normally return home on the same day of the procedure, but some would like the extra peace of mind of staying in an overnight bed in our medical facility, under the supervision of 2 personal attendants.
- Cost includes:
- Overnight stay in one of our beds
- Nurse supervision for the length of your stay
- Meals for dinner and breakfast the following morning
Liposuction Add-On
+$2000+
- Cost includes:
- Liposuction can be added-on to another tummy tuck procedure to improve contouring and final results
- The add-on cost is highly variable and is based on what area(s) are targeted, additional time required and patient anatomy. For more information regarding liposuction pricing and areas, please see our liposuction page.
Consultations are free with no obligation
If you have any questions about our pricing or have specific needs, do not hesitate to contact us
Prices serve as a guideline only. Fees will be adjusted based on each patient’s individual anatomy and the complexity of the case.
Prices do not include HST
See Our Other Types of Body Contouring Surgery
Liposuction
Body Lift
Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL)
Arm Lift
Mommy Makeover
Thigh Lift
FAQs about Tummy Tuck Surgery
What is a mini tummy tuck?
A mini tummy tuck is a surgical procedure performed by our expert tummy tuck surgeons. It removes loose skin isolated to the lower abdomen only, to provide a thinner and more toned look. It has a shorter scar than a standard tummy tuck and also avoids the scar which goes around the belly button. A standard tummy tuck focuses on the entire abdominal region. Many patients do not have loose skin isolated to the lower abdomen only and require a standard tummy tuck to achieve their desired look. To see if you are a candidate for a mini tummy tuck, book a complimentary consultation today.
How long does it take to recover from a tummy tuck?
Recovery can be impacted by the type of abdominoplasty as well as the patient’s age, general health and post-surgical care.
Patients typically go home the same day after surgery. Walking is encouraged immediately.
Most patients take 2-4 weeks off of work to recover and avoid any heavy lifting or strenuous activity for 6+ weeks, in order to minimize complications and promote the best possible tummy tuck results.
Is tummy tuck surgery safe?
All surgeries have risks, including a tummy tuck, but when performed by our experienced tummy tuck surgeons, the procedure is generally regarded as safe. Potential risks and complications will be discussed during the consultation with your tummy tuck surgeon. The procedure will be performed by an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon in a fully accredited surgical facility to promote patient safety.
How long does a tummy tuck last?
It varies. Maintaining a healthy diet and active lifestyle can help tummy tuck results last a lifetime. Weight changes or pregnancies after a tummy tuck procedure can negatively influence the longevity of tummy tuck results.
What should I expect during my consultation for a tummy tuck in Toronto?
During your consultation for a tummy tuck in Toronto, Dr. Stephanie Dreckmann will assess your medical history, current health, and aesthetic goals. She will discuss the different types of tummy tuck surgeries available, recommend the best option for you, and explain the surgical process, recovery, and potential risks. This personalized approach ensures you have all the information needed to make an informed decision.
Is tummy tuck surgery worth it?
A vast majority of patients are delighted with their tummy tuck results and think the procedure is worth it. In fact, on RealSelf, the tummy tuck procedure has a 95% “Worth It” rating at the time of writing this article.
Can you get pregnant after a tummy tuck?
Pregnancy after a tummy tuck is generally safe for both the mother and child. Pregnancy and its associated weight gain and abdominal stretching can reintroduce excess or sagging skin. This may require another abdominoplasty procedure to restore a more tightened and contoured appearance to the abdomen. For this reason, it is often recommended to wait until finished having children to have an abdominoplasty performed.
Does a tummy tuck leave a scar?
Yes. The standard tummy tuck surgery will leave a scar near the bikini line which is permanent, but can typically be easily hidden by undergarments. There will also be a scar around the belly button. The scar tends to fade over time, but this can vary depending on ethnicity and genetics.
What is the maximum weight for tummy tuck surgery?
Generally you should have a body mass index (BMI) below 30. Some patients with a BMI of 30-35 may still be candidates for surgery. You can always book a free consultation to consult our plastic surgeons to discuss options. You can calculate your BMI here.
How much weight should I lose before a tummy tuck?
You should be within 10-15 pounds of your target weight prior to surgery, and should be able to maintain that weight for 6 months to a year before having an abdominoplasty. Fluctuations in your weight can undo the effects of your tummy tuck.
When can I start working out after a tummy tuck?
Walking is encouraged immediately after a tummy tuck. You should start walking around on the same day as your surgery. This improves circulation, reduces swelling and reduces the risk of blood clots.
Running and weight lifting can typically be resumed after 6 weeks. Core exercises, like sit-ups, may take 7-10 weeks to resume.
Each patient is different, and you should always follow your plastic surgeon’s specific advice for recovery.
Do you have to wear a garment after tummy tuck surgery?
Valespring provides a complimentary surgical compression garment which must be worn to achieve the best possible results and to minimize complications. It will reduce discomfort and control swelling, as well as minimize skin wrinkles, bumps and scars. The garment is generally worn for six weeks after tummy tuck surgery, or based on the advice of your plastic surgeon.
How do I qualify for a tummy tuck?
A good candidate for a tummy tuck in Toronto with our skilled surgeons typically has the following attributes:
Generally fit and healthy with a body mass index (BMI) less than 35
Non-smoker for at least 4 weeks
At a stable weight which you are happy with
Loose or sagging skin in the abdominal region
This could be a result of aging, pregnancy, weight fluctuation, etc.
Not planning a future pregnancy
If used, when can drains be removed after tummy tuck surgery?
Drains are usually removed when draining less than 30 cc of fluid over a few days. This is highly variable and usually occurs within a few days to few weeks.
How long does it take for a drain hole to heal?
Usually the drain hole will close and heal within a few days after the drain is removed. If you have any concerns regarding how it is healing, you should follow up with your surgeon.
How do I find the best tummy tuck surgeons?
To find the best tummy tuck surgeons, look for board-certified surgeons with extensive experience in body contouring and tummy tuck procedures. Dr. Stephanie Dreckmann at Valespring is highly regarded for her expertise and successful outcomes in tummy tuck surgery.
Why choose Valespring for your tummy tuck in Toronto?
Choosing Valespring for your tummy tuck in Toronto means benefiting from the expertise of Dr. Stephanie Dreckmann, a board-certified plastic surgeon with specialized training in body contouring. Our team uses advanced surgical techniques and state-of-the-art equipment in our CPSO accredited surgical facility to ensure the best possible outcomes and patient safety.
How painful is tummy tuck surgery?
Patients tend to experience mild to moderate pain or discomfort for the first few days after surgery. Your doctor will prescribe medication to help control the pain. It will likely be difficult to bend from the waist or to stand completely straight for extended periods for the first few days.