Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) in Ottawa
Tummy tuck surgery in Ottawa
What is a tummy tuck? A tummy tuck, also called abdominoplasty, removes excess abdominal skin and fat and may include repair of abdominal-wall separation when appropriate. In Ottawa, Dr. Sean C. Smith assesses skin, fat distribution, muscle support, previous scars and your goals separately before discussing a surgical plan. It is a body-contouring operation rather than a weight-loss treatment.
Full or mini abdominoplasty? A mini tummy tuck concentrates on selected lower-abdominal concerns below the belly button. A full tummy tuck addresses a broader area. The location of loose skin, abdominal-wall findings and previous surgery help determine the recommendation; a smaller scar or shorter operation is not automatically the most suitable choice.
Can abdominoplasty address separated abdominal muscles? Diastasis recti concerns the separation of the abdominal muscles and their supporting midline tissues. Skin excess, fat and abdominal-wall support are different issues. Muscle repair is considered when indicated and is not needed for every patient. Discuss any bulge, suspected hernia, symptoms or previous abdominal surgery during assessment.
Tummy tuck or liposuction? Liposuction treats selected localized fat but does not remove substantial loose skin or repair muscle separation. Some patients discuss combined treatment, while others need a different or staged plan. The examination establishes which tissues contribute to your concern.
How much does a tummy tuck cost in Ottawa? The published full abdominoplasty surgical fee estimate is CAD $14,000–$20,000+, plus HST. Mini abdominoplasty has a separate estimate. Your full quote must confirm the planned operation, anesthesia, facility charges, follow-up and any additional costs, including combined procedures.
What should I know about recovery and scars? A tummy tuck leaves a permanent scar; its length and position depend on the skin that needs treatment and your anatomy. Plan help with transport, lifting, childcare and household tasks. Follow Dr. Smith’s instructions for compression, wound care, work and exercise, and review risks and possible revision before deciding.
Compare mini tummy tuck surgery.
Abdominoplasty fees and financing.
On this page: Full or mini tummy tuck · Recovery and scars · Risks · Costs
What this procedure may address
Abdominal restoration surgery may help address:
Separation of the abdominal muscles following pregnancy
Excess or lax skin that affects contour and comfort
Changes in abdominal proportion
Structural support of the core
Every outcome is individualized, and no two surgical plans are the same.
Full tummy tuck or mini tummy tuck
A mini tummy tuck focuses on excess skin and fat below the belly button. A full tummy tuck addresses a broader area of the abdomen. The amount and location of loose skin, abdominal muscle separation and existing scars help determine which approach is appropriate.
Muscle repair is considered when needed; it is not required for every patient. A consultation helps establish whether a full tummy tuck, mini tummy tuck or another approach best matches your anatomy. Read about mini tummy tuck surgery for more detail on the limited lower-abdominal procedure.
Who may consider a tummy tuck
A tummy tuck may be considered when excess skin or changes in abdominal support remain despite a stable weight. Your health, smoking status, previous operations and expectations are part of the assessment. If you are planning further significant weight loss or a future pregnancy, discuss the timing of surgery with Dr. Smith.
Tummy tuck surgery is not a weight-loss treatment. The appropriate operation depends on an examination and a discussion of the changes you want to address.
This procedure may be appropriate for individuals who:
Have experienced abdominal muscle separation following pregnancy or weight loss
Notice persistent changes that do not improve with time or exercise
Are seeking improvement and change
Are prepared for the realities of surgical healing and recovery
Abdominal restoration is intended for those who seek meaningful change to the appearance of their abdomen.
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Tummy tuck and liposuction
Liposuction addresses localized fat. A tummy tuck also removes excess skin and may include muscle repair. The condition of your skin and abdominal wall matters when choosing between them or considering a combined approach. Learn about liposuction and discuss the differences during your consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What abdominal surgery actually treats
One of the most common misconceptions about abdominal surgery is that it is simply about removing fat or creating a flatter appearance.
In reality, abdominal restoration addresses three distinct components: skin, muscle, and fat, each of which behaves differently and requires a different solution. Understanding this distinction is essential for setting realistic expectations and achieving balanced, lasting results.
Skin: Laxity and excess
Skin changes are among the most visible concerns following weight changes, pregnancy, or aging.
Exercise and weight changes may not resolve excess abdominal skin. The extent of skin laxity and the available treatment options require individual assessment. Abdominal surgery can remove excess skin and reposition the remaining tissue to create a smoother, better-supported contour.
Surgery does not “tighten” skin in the way exercise tightens muscle; it rebalances and removes excess skin.
Muscle: Core support and separation
The abdominal muscles play a critical role in posture, stability, and core strength.
Pregnancy and significant weight fluctuation can cause separation of the abdominal muscles (often referred to as diastasis). When this occurs, the abdomen may appear rounded or unsupported, even in physically fit individuals.
Abdominal surgery may include repair of separated abdominal muscles when appropriate. Not every abdomen requires muscle repair, and improved strength, stability or exercise performance cannot be guaranteed.
Fat: Distribution, not weight
Abdominal fat distribution is often resistant to diet and exercise.
Liposuction may be used selectively to address localized fat deposits, but fat removal alone does not correct skin laxity or muscle separation. Removing fat without addressing the underlying structure can sometimes worsen contour irregularity and skin laxity.
Fat management in abdominal surgery is about contour refinement.
Why this 3-layer approach matters
Abdominal restoration is most successful when each component is addressed appropriately:
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Skin is managed through excision and repositioning
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Muscle repair is considered when indicated by the individual assessment
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Fat is refined conservatively to preserve smooth transitions and bring out a patient’s natural contour and curves.
Treating the wrong component, or treating only one, can lead to disappointment, imbalance, or the need for revision surgery.
A balanced approach
No two abdomens are the same.
Some patients benefit primarily from skin removal. Others require muscle repair. Some may need targeted fat refinement, while others do not. The most natural results come from matching the solution to the problem, not applying a one-size-fits-all procedure.
Final perspective
Abdominal surgery considers skin, muscle and fat in three-dimensional contours. Goals and limitations, including whether any functional change can reasonably be expected, should be discussed during consultation.
A private consultation allows for careful assessment of skin, muscle, and fat so a plan can be developed with clarity and intention.
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A clear framework for choosing the appropriate approach
Abdominal restoration is not a one-size-fits-all procedure. The choice between a mini and a full abdominal restoration depends on where changes are present, not on how much surgery is preferred.
Understanding the difference between these approaches helps set realistic expectations and protect long-term outcomes.
Mini Abdominal Restoration
What a mini abdominal restoration addresses
A mini abdominal restoration focuses only on the lower abdomen, typically below the navel.
It is designed to address:
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Limited excess skin beneath the belly button
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Mild lower abdominal laxity
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No significant muscle separation above the navel
The belly button is usually not repositioned, and muscle repair is limited to below the umbilicus or is not required.
When a mini approach may be appropriate
A mini abdominal restoration may be considered when:
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Skin laxity is confined to the lower abdomen
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A cesarean section (c-section) scar requires revision
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Upper abdominal contour remains well supported
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Muscle separation is minimal or absent
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Weight is stable
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Expectations are realistic and focused on refinement
A mini procedure is not a “lighter” version of a full restoration; it is a targeted solution for a specific problem limited to the lower stomach.
Full Abdominal Restoration
What a full abdominal restoration addresses
A full abdominal restoration addresses the entire abdominal wall, from the ribcage to the lower abdomen.
It is designed to correct:
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Widespread skin laxity
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Muscle separation (diastasis) across the abdomen
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Loss of core support
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Abdominal contour imbalance above and below the navel
This approach includes repositioning the belly button and, when appropriate, comprehensive muscle repair.
When a full approach may be appropriate
A full abdominal restoration may be recommended when:
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Skin laxity extends above the belly button
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The abdomen appears rounded or unsupported
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Muscle separation is present
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A mini procedure would not fully address the concern
Choosing a full approach when indicated helps avoid incomplete correction and the need for revision surgery.
Why choosing the wrong approach causes problems
Selecting a mini procedure when a full restoration is needed can result in:
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Persistent upper abdominal laxity
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Incomplete contour improvement
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Continued muscle weakness or separation
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Dissatisfaction despite surgery
Conversely, performing a full restoration when unnecessary can introduce excess scarring and recovery time without meaningful benefit.
Appropriateness protects outcomes.
Scar placement and recovery considerations
Both approaches involve scarring and recovery, though the extent differs.
Scar placement is planned carefully to balance access, support, and long-term healing. Recovery expectations, activity modifications, and support requirements are thoroughly discussed during consultation.
No abdominal surgery is “minor”; each requires respect for healing and time.
How the decision is made
During consultation, we:
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Assess skin quality and the location of excess
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Evaluate muscle separation and core support
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Discuss goals honestly
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Explain which approach addresses the problem fully
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Recommend the least aggressive option that achieves balanced correction
In some cases, neither approach may be recommended at present.
Final perspective
Mini and full abdominal restoration are different tools, not interchangeable options.
The right choice is the one that restores support, proportion, and function, not the one that simply sounds easier.
A private consultation provides the opportunity to determine which approach is appropriate for your anatomy and goals, without pressure or obligation.
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Understanding the difference
Abdominal restoration and liposuction are often discussed as interchangeable solutions, but they address different anatomical problems.
Choosing the correct approach is essential for achieving balanced, lasting results and avoiding disappointment. This guide explains how these procedures differ and when each may be appropriate.
What liposuction addresses
Liposuction is designed to remove localized fat deposits.
It is most effective when:
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Skin has good elasticity
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Muscle structure is intact
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The primary concern is fat distribution
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Weight is stable
Liposuction can refine contour and reveal underlying structure, but it does not tighten skin or repair muscle separation.
Limitations of liposuction
When used inappropriately, liposuction alone may:
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Increase the appearance of loose or stretched skin
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Leave abdominal bulging unchanged
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Create contour irregularity
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Fail to address core weakness
Fat removal without structural support can expose underlying problems rather than solve them.
What abdominal restoration addresses
Abdominal restoration is a structural procedure.
It is designed to address:
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Excess skin
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Muscle separation and loss of core support
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Abdominal contour imbalance
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Changes above and below the navel
By correcting structure first, abdominal restoration creates a stable foundation for long-term balance.
When abdominal restoration may be appropriate
Abdominal restoration may be recommended when:
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Skin laxity is present
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The abdomen appears rounded or unsupported
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Muscle separation exists
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Liposuction alone would not address the concern
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Functional support is part of the goal
This procedure is not only about stomach flattening; it is about restoring natural, 3-dimensional contours.
Can the procedures be combined?
In many cases, liposuction and abdominal restoration may be used together.
When combined thoughtfully, liposuction can refine the contour, while abdominal restoration corrects the structure. A combination treatment is planned conservatively to preserve smooth transitions and highlight natural curves and contours.
A combination does not mean more is better; it means that appropriate tools are used together.
Why choosing correctly matters
Selecting the wrong procedure can result in:
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Persistent abdominal bulging
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Worsened skin laxity
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Dissatisfaction despite surgery
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Increased likelihood of revision
Correct diagnosis protects outcomes.
How the decision is made
During consultation, we:
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Assess skin elasticity and quality
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Evaluate muscle support and separation
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Discuss goals openly
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Explain what each procedure can and cannot do
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Recommend the least extensive approach that fully addresses the problem
In some cases, surgery may not be recommended at the present time.
Final perspective
Liposuction and abdominal restoration are not competing procedures; they are different solutions for different needs.
The best results come from matching the procedure to the anatomy, not forcing anatomy to fit a procedure.
A private consultation offers the opportunity to carefully evaluate these options and develop a plan rooted in clarity, restraint, and long-term integrity.
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Muscle repair is considered individually when abdominal separation is present. It is not required for every tummy tuck, and improved core strength, posture, comfort or exercise performance cannot be guaranteed.
Restoring abdominal support
Diastasis refers to the separation of the abdominal muscles that can occur during pregnancy or weight gain. While it is often discussed in cosmetic terms, diastasis is also a structural issue, not a failure of fitness or effort.
Our philosophy around diastasis repair is grounded in restoring core support and balance, not creating an aggressively tight or flattened appearance.
Understanding diastasis
The abdominal muscles support posture, movement, and stability. When separation occurs, the core can lose its ability to distribute pressure effectively.
This may present as:
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A rounded or protruding abdomen despite exercise
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A feeling of core weakness or instability
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Discomfort with movement or prolonged standing
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Difficulty engaging the core fully
Not all abdominal fullness is caused by diastasis, and not all diastasis requires surgical repair.
When diastasis repair is appropriate
Diastasis repair may be considered when:
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Muscle separation contributes meaningfully to abdominal contour or support issues
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Core instability affects comfort or function
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Skin and muscle changes cannot be addressed with non-surgical measures alone
Repair is recommended selectively, based on anatomy and functional impact, not as a routine step in every abdominal procedure.
Our approach to muscle repair
When diastasis repair is performed, it is approached as a structural correction that can lead to cosmetic tightening and improved abdominal support.
Key principles include:
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Restoring natural muscle alignment
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Avoiding over-tightening or excessive tension
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Considering posture, movement and individual symptoms
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Discussing the potential benefits and limitations of muscle repair
The goals and limitations of muscle repair should be discussed individually.
Why restraint matters
Over-aggressive muscle tightening can lead to:
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Discomfort or restriction with movement
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Increased pressure on surrounding tissues
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Unnatural abdominal contour
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Complications during healing
An appropriate muscle reconstruction protects both comfort and long-term outcomes.
Recovery and adaptation
Following muscle repair, the body requires time to adapt.
Return to activity should be gradual and follow Dr. Smith’s instructions. Healing and any change in strength or function vary between individuals.
Recovery expectations and activity guidance are discussed clearly during consultation and patients are guided step by step through their recovery.
Final perspective
Diastasis repair is not only about achieving the flattest abdomen possible.
It considers abdominal anatomy, contour and the potential benefits and limitations of repair. Functional improvement is not guaranteed.
A private consultation provides the opportunity to assess whether diastasis repair is appropriate and to plan correction with clarity, restraint, and long-term thinking.
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Honest expectations, thoughtful planning
Scars are an unavoidable part of abdominal surgery. Our philosophy is not to promise scar invisibility, but to approach scar placement and healing from a long-term perspective.
How scar placement is planned
Scar placement is a strategic decision guided by anatomy, access, and long-term healing goals.
When planning abdominal restoration, we consider:
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The amount and location of excess skin
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Tension required for support and closure
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Natural contours of the lower abdomen
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Clothing and undergarment lines
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Long-term scar maturation rather than early appearance
The goal is to place scars where they are structurally necessary and thoughtfully positioned, rather than minimizing them at the expense of correction. During your consultation, Dr. Smith will discuss the ideal incision length and position to address your concerns.
Why lower scars are not always better
There is a common misconception that the lowest possible scar is always the best option.
Although low scars are often desirable, there are exceptions.
In reality, overly low or forced scar placement can:
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Increase tension on the incision
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Compromise healing quality
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Limit effective correction
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Increase the risk of widened or uneven scars
While low scars are often favorable, proper placement prioritizes healing and durability.
At your consultation, Dr. Smith will discuss the ideal incision position for your anatomy.
Understanding scar healing
Scar healing is a biological process that evolves over time.
Surgical scars will often improve for 12-18 months following surgery.
Factors that influence healing include:
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Individual genetics
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Skin type and tone
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Tension on the incision
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Post-operative care and activity
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Time
Early scars often appear red or firm before gradually softening and fading. The final scar appearance cannot be assessed in the early healing phase.
Our approach to scar care
Patients are guided through scar care thoughtfully and conservatively.
This may include:
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Wound support and protection
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Activity modification during early healing
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Scar care recommendations as appropriate
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Monitoring healing progression over time
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Laser treatment of scar, if required/desired
There is no single scar treatment that guarantees a specific outcome. Consistency and patience matter more than products.
Why restraint matters
Over-aggressive tension, excessive tightening, or compromised closure increases the likelihood of poor scar quality.
Restraint in surgical planning protects both contour and scar outcome.
Final perspective
A well-healed scar is one that supports the surgical result and fades quietly over time.
Our responsibility is to plan incisions that enable proper correction, support healing, and respect the skin's natural biology.
A private consultation provides the opportunity to openly discuss scar placement, set realistic expectations, and plan abdominal surgery with clarity and long-term integrity.
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An honest guide to healing after surgery
Healing after surgery is a process. Understanding what is normal, what takes time, and what requires patience helps reduce anxiety and supports better outcomes.
This guide outlines how we frame post-operative healing: with realism, clarity, and respect for the body’s natural recovery timeline.
Healing is not linear
Recovery does not progress in a straight line. It is common to experience days where you feel significantly better, followed by days where swelling, tightness, or fatigue return.
This does not indicate a problem. It reflects the body’s natural inflammatory and repair cycles.
What to expect in the early phase
In the first days to weeks after surgery, it is normal to experience:
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Swelling and firmness
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Tightness or pressure
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Bruising or color changes
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Temporary changes in sensation
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Fatigue as your body uses energy to heal
These early changes are part of healing, not signs of failure or complication.
Swelling takes time
Swelling resolves gradually, not quickly.
Early swelling often distorts shape and can mask the final result. It may fluctuate throughout the day and persist longer than expected, especially in procedures involving the abdomen, breasts, or extensive tissue work.
Final contour and softness develop over months, not weeks.
Scars evolve slowly
Scars change continuously over time.
Early scars may appear red, firm, raised, or uneven before gradually softening and fading. This process often takes several months to a year.
Judging scar quality too early can create unnecessary worry.
Sensation changes are common
Temporary numbness, tingling, or changes in sensitivity are common during the healing process.
Nerves recover slowly. Sensation often returns gradually, though timelines vary between individuals.
Activity and movement matter
Following activity guidance is essential for healing.
Doing too much too soon can increase swelling, prolong recovery, or affect results. Gentle movement, rest, and gradual return to activity support better outcomes.
Healing is supported by patience rather than pushing through discomfort.
Emotional recovery is real
Emotional fluctuations during recovery are common.
It is normal to feel vulnerable, impatient, or uncertain while the body heals. These feelings often resolve as swelling decreases and comfort improves.
Support, reassurance, and time are part of recovery.
When to reach out
Patients are encouraged to contact the clinic if they experience:
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Sudden or worsening pain
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Signs of infection
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Unexpected changes that cause concern
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Questions about healing or recovery guidance
No concern is too small to discuss.
Final perspective
Healing is a partnership between surgical planning, patient care, and time.
Our role is to guide, monitor, and support recovery with honesty and attention to detail. Your role is to give the body time to heal.
Results emerge gradually, and they are strongest when the recovery process is respected.
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A realistic timeline for surgical recovery
Recovery after surgery unfolds gradually. This snapshot offers a general framework for what many patients experience week by week. Individual healing varies depending on the type of procedure, the extent of surgery, and personal biology.
This guide is meant to orient rather than rush the healing process.
Week 1: Protection and rest
What this phase is about: Stomach stabilization and protection.
Common experiences may include:
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Swelling, tightness, and bruising
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Fatigue and low energy
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Limited mobility or activity restrictions
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Dependence on support garments or dressings
Focus on rest, gentle movement as instructed, hydration, and close adherence to post-operative guidance. This is not the time to evaluate results.
Week 2: Gradual settling
What this phase is about: Early adaptation.
Common experiences may include:
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Reduced bruising
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Continued swelling and firmness
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Slight improvement in comfort
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Increased ability to move around
Many patients feel better but are not fully recovered. Activity should remain light and intentional.
Weeks 3–6: Increased comfort
What this phase is about: Transition.
Common experiences may include:
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Improved mobility
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Decreasing swelling
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Early softening of tissues
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Emotional fluctuations as expectations shift
This is often when patients begin to feel more like themselves, though healing is still ongoing beneath the surface.
Weeks 6–8: Structural recovery
What this phase is about: Strength and support.
Common experiences may include:
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Greater comfort with daily activities
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Most patients can resume FULL activity as tolerated after 6 weeks of healing
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Continued refinement of contour
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Gradual return to approved exercise
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Ongoing scar maturation
While visible recovery improves, internal healing continues.
Weeks 8–12: Refinement phase
What this phase is about: Integration.
Common experiences may include:
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More stable shape and contour
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Further reduction in swelling
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Increased confidence in movement
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Scars are beginning to soften and fade
Results become more recognizable, though they are not yet final.
Beyond 3 months: Maturation
What this phase is about: Long-term healing.
Common experiences may include:
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Continued scar improvement
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Subtle changes in softness and position
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Full integration of results into daily life
Final outcomes evolve over many months. Patience remains an important part of recovery.
Important reminders
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Healing timelines vary
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Swelling and firmness can fluctuate
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Emotional ups and downs are common
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Early appearance does not predict final results
Recovery is supported best by consistency, rest, and open communication with the care team.
Final perspective
Surgery creates change, healing completes it.
Allowing the body adequate time to recover supports better comfort, stronger outcomes, and long-term satisfaction.
If questions arise at any stage of recovery, patients are encouraged to reach out for guidance and reassurance.
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Consultation and Preparing for Surgery
The success and safety of your tummy tuck procedure depends very much on your complete candidness during your consultation. You'll be asked a number of questions about your health, desires and lifestyle.
Is it right for me?
Tummy tuck surgery is a highly individualized procedure and you should do it for yourself, not to fulfill someone else's desires or to try to fit any sort of ideal image. Abdominoplasty is a good option for you if:
You are physically healthy and at a stable weight with a Body Mass Index (BMI) less than 30
You have realistic expectations
You are a non-smoker
You are bothered by the appearance of your abdomen
During your consultation be prepared to discuss:
Your surgical goals
Medical conditions, drug allergies, and medical treatments
Current medications, vitamins, herbal supplements, alcohol, tobacco, and drug use
Previous surgeries
Dr. Smith will also:
Evaluate your general health status and any pre-existing health conditions or risk factors
Take photographs (with consent, for your secure medical file)
Discuss your options
Recommend a course of treatment
Discuss likely outcomes of the tummy tuck and any risks or potential complications
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Prior to surgery, you may be asked to:
Get lab testing or a medical evaluation
Take certain medications or adjust your current medications
Stop smoking
Avoid taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs, and herbal supplements as they can increase bleeding
In most cases, you will be able to go home the same day as your surgery. However, a tummy tuck may be performed with other procedures. If this is the case, you will likely spend one night in the hospital after surgery In either case, be sure to arrange for someone to drive you to and from surgery and to stay with you for at least the first night following your operation.
Recovery and scars
Recovery involves swelling, wound care and a gradual return to activity. You will receive instructions about dressings, any drains, compression garments and follow-up. Arrange for help with your journey home and for someone to stay with you for at least the first night after surgery.
The timing of work, lifting and exercise depends on your operation and healing. Discuss your responsibilities and activity level during consultation so you can plan appropriate support and downtime.
A tummy tuck leaves a permanent scar. Dr. Smith plans the incision low on the abdomen where possible so that clothing or swimwear can cover it. The length and position depend on your anatomy and the skin that needs to be removed. Scars can take several months to a year to mature, and their appearance varies.
How should I compare tummy tuck before-and-after photos? Ask which operation was performed, whether muscle repair or liposuction was included, and how long after surgery the photographs were taken. Early swelling and scar colour can differ from later healing. Photos illustrate individual outcomes; they do not predict your result. Discuss scar placement and care for your own anatomy during consultation.
About results
Results from abdominal restoration are intended to be natural and proportional.
The goal is not to erase the effects of pregnancy, but to restore structure and balance in a way that feels natural and enduring over time.
The surgical experience
From your initial consultation through recovery, care is delivered in a calm, private, and unhurried environment.
Patients are supported with honest guidance, thoughtful planning, and attentive follow-up, without pressure to proceed.
Consultation with Dr Smith
At your consultation, Dr. Smith will review your health and previous surgery, examine your abdomen, and discuss your goals, options and surgical risks. Bring questions about muscle repair, scar placement, recovery and the support you will need at home. Request a consultation at the Ottawa office to discuss your options.
The Procedure
Step 1
Anesthesia
Medications are administered for your comfort during the surgical procedures. Abdominoplasty is usually performed with general anesthesia (asleep during the entire procedure).
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Step 2
The incision
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A full tummy tuck requires a horizontally-oriented incision in the area between the pubic hairline and belly button. The shape and length of the incision will be determined by the amount of excess skin.
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Once the abdominal skin is lifted, the underlying weakened abdominal muscles are repaired.
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A second incision around the navel may be necessary to remove excess skin in the upper abdomen. The upper abdominal skin is pulled down like a window shade. The excess skin is trimmed and the remaining skin is sutured together. A new opening for the belly button is created. The belly button is popped through to the surface and sutured into position.
Step 3
Closing the incisions
Sutures, skin adhesives, tapes or clips close the skin incisions.
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Step 4
See the results
Your tummy tuck will result in a flatter, firmer abdominal contour that is more proportionate with your body type and weight. The final results may be initially obscured by swelling and your inability to stand fully upright until internal healing is complete. Within a week or two, you should be standing tall and confident in your new slimmer profile.
You will be asked to wear an abdominal compression device for 6 weeks after surgery. You will also be asked to avoid heavy lifting and exercise for the first 6 weeks after your surgery.
Risks and Safety
The decision to have a tummy tuck is extremely personal, and you'll have to decide if the benefits will achieve your goals and if the risks and potential complications are acceptable. You will be asked to sign consent forms to ensure that you fully understand the procedure and any risks.
The risks include:
Anesthesia risks
Bleeding
Infection
Fluid accumulation (seroma)
Poor wound healing
Skin loss
Numbness or other changes in skin sensation
Skin discoloration and/or prolonged swelling
Unfavorable scarring
Recurrent looseness of skin
Fatty tissue found deep in the skin might die (fat necrosis)
Deep vein thrombosis, cardiac and pulmonary complications
Asymmetry
Suboptimal aesthetic result
Possibility of revisional surgery
Persistent pain
These risks and others will be fully discussed with Dr. Smith prior to your consent. It's important that you address all your questions directly with Dr. Smith.
Recovery After Surgery
Following your surgery, dressings or bandages may be applied to your incisions, and you may be wrapped in an elastic bandage or a compression garment to minimize swelling and support your abdomen as it heals. Small, thin tubes may be temporarily placed under the skin to drain any excess blood or fluid that may collect.
You will be given specific instructions that may include how to care for the surgical site and drains, medications to apply or take orally to aid healing and reduce the potential for infection, specific concerns to look for at the surgical site or in your general health, and when to follow up with Dr. Smith.
Dr. Smith will address these specific questions about what you can expect during your individual recovery period:
Where will I recover for the first night after my surgery (discharge home or overnight stay in hospital)?
What medication will I be given or prescribed after surgery?
Will I have dressings/bandages after surgery?
When will they be removed?
When will the stitches be removed?
How will I bathe?
How long will I wear the pressure garment?
When can I resume normal activity and exercise?
When do I return for follow-up care?
Results
The final results of your tummy tuck may be initially obscured by swelling and your inability to stand fully upright until internal healing is complete. Your tummy tuck will result in a flatter, firmer abdominal contour that is more proportionate with your body type and weight. Previous abdominal surgery may limit the potential results of a tummy tuck.
In women who have undergone cesarean section, the existing scars may be incorporated into the new scar. Scar may take several months to a year to fade as much as they will.
Although good results are expected from your procedure, there is no guarantee. In some situations, it may not be possible to achieve optimal results with a single surgical procedure and another surgery may be necessary.
Following Dr. Smith’s instructions is essential to the success of your surgery. It's important that the surgical incisions are not subjected to excessive force, swelling, abrasion, or motion during the time of healing. Dr. Smith will give you specific instructions on how to care for yourself.
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Tummy tuck cost in Ottawa
How much does a tummy tuck cost in Ottawa? Your quote depends on whether a full or mini abdominoplasty is appropriate, the extent of skin removal and muscle repair, any planned liposuction, anesthesia and facility requirements. Current published ranges are a starting point; an examination and written quote establish the cost of your proposed operation.
What should I compare in a tummy tuck quote? Confirm the surgeon’s fee, anesthesia, facility costs, garments, follow-up, applicable taxes and any additional charges. Ask how a combined procedure changes the plan and total fee rather than adding separate procedure ranges together.
Full or mini tummy tuck? These procedures address different areas of the abdomen. The amount and location of loose skin and muscle separation guide the recommendation. Choosing the smaller operation by price alone may leave your main concern untreated.
You will be charged one fee and this will include:
Anesthesia fees
Hospital or surgical facility costs
Medical tests (if required)
Post-surgery garments
Surgeon's fee
Dr. Smith
Your satisfaction involves more than a fee. When choosing a plastic surgeon for tummy tuck, remember that the surgeon's experience and your comfort with him or her is just as important as the final cost of the surgery.
Plastic surgery involves many choices. The first and most important is selecting a Plastic Surgeon you can trust. Plastic Surgeons such as Dr. Smith, certified by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada meet rigorous standards:
Board certification by Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada®
Completed five years of surgical training following medical school
Pass comprehensive oral and written exams
Graduate from an accredited medical school
Complete continuing medical education, including patient safety
Perform surgery in accredited hospitals and surgical facilities
Do not be confused by other official sounding boards and certifications. Be sure to choose a highly trained plastic surgeon who is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery or The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada.
This procedural information is intended strictly for educational purposes. Only models are depicted in these procedural information pages. It is not intended to make any representations or warranties about the outcome of any procedure. It is not a substitute for a thorough, in-person consultation with Dr. Smith.
Rhinoplasty 5.0/5 — May 12, 2022 I highly recommend Dr. Smith for anyone considering a rhinoplasty. I am currently 8 weeks post op and I'm thrilled with my results so far. I have nothing but good things to say about Dr. Smith and his team at The Ottawa Clinic.
Breast Augmentation 5.0/5 — August 18, 2025 Dr. Smith is absolutely amazing, he is the most skilled surgeon in Ottawa and along with that he also has great bedside manner. I met a few surgeons for consults before I met Dr. Smith, for my breast augmentation. None of them were as thorough, knowledgable, kind, or positive as he was. From our first consult I knew I wanted him to be my surgeon. …
Upper and Lower Blepharoplasty 5.0/5 — November 22, 2024 Dr. Smith is an excellent surgeon and has a great personality. I had blepharoplasty ( upper and lower eyelid) and after couple of weeks it looked really good and even better now after two months. Dr Smith is knowledgeable and well skilled and make you at ease and answers all your questions and concerns. …
Deep Plane Facelift 5.0/5 — April 4, 2025 Dr. Smith is an exceptional surgeon. physician. He and his staff are professional, kind and caring. He performed a deep plane face lift for me just two weeks ago and I am already so pleased with the results. 10 out of 10 rating for Dr. Smith.
Breast Augmentation 5.0/5 — December 21, 2023 Dr. Smith is an exceptional cosmetic surgeon who has truly transformed my life through his remarkable skill and expertise. I recently underwent a breast augmentation procedure under his care, and I couldn't be more thrilled with the results. From the initial consultation to the post-operative care, Dr. Smith demonstrated the utmost professionalism and compassion. …
Abdominoplasty / Tummy Tuck 5.0/5 — October 22, 2021 I went to Dr. Sean Smith for an abdominoplasty (tummy tuck), I cannot be more thrilled with the results! From start to finish, he and his team made me feel comfortable with no pressure at all. Both the clinic and the private surgery location are clean and modern with ample free parking. …
Rhinoplasty 5.0/5 — April 1, 2023 In the summer of 2022 I met with Dr.Smith to inquire about rhinoplasty surgery. I was curious and equally nervous about proceeding. It was not until I met with Dr.Smith that I felt confident and safe in my decision to proceed. …
Mommy Makeover 5.0/5 — July 24, 2026 Choosing Dr. Sean Smith for my mommy makeover was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. From my very first consultation, I knew I was in the right place. Dr. Smith was patient, honest, and took the time to understand exactly what I was hoping to achieve. He explained every part of the procedure thoroughly and made me feel comfortable and confident moving forward. …
Breast Augmentation 5.0/5 — April 19, 2024 I had breast augmentation with Dr. Sean Smith, and I am extremely happy with the results. After 8 weeks post-surgery, I can confidently say he is professional and his work is beyond perfect. The pain level was minimal, only 2 out of 10, and my recovery took just 5 days before I was back to work. …
CONTACT DR. SMITH
Dr. Smith is located in Ottawa's West End. Our office features ground-level entry and offers abundant parking. Over 500 free parking spots are available.
For Ottawa appointment inquiries, please use the form.