Abdominal Contouring
DR ALEX SEAL, VANCOUVER

Abdominal Contouring

The Benefits of Abdominal Contouring Surgery

What Is Abdominal Contouring?

Abdominal contouring surgery is designed to strengthen and support the abdominal muscles while improving overall shape and definition through a slimmer, more balanced contour. The goal is not perfection, but to help your abdomen feel stronger, flatter, and more aligned with how you want your body to look and function.

Why the Abdomen Changes Over Time

Even with regular exercise and healthy habits, achieving a flat or toned midsection can be challenging. Factors such as pregnancy, natural changes in skin elasticity, weight fluctuations, and genetics all influence how the body adapts over time. The abdomen, in particular, is an area that commonly experiences lasting change.

When Exercise Alone Isn’t Enough

In many cases, the abdominal muscles stretch and separate, creating a softer or less supported feeling through the midsection. This can happen even without excess skin or fat and is often difficult to correct with exercise alone. Muscle separation may also contribute to core weakness, discomfort during physical activity, or a sensation of abdominal fullness after meals.

Goals of Abdominal Contouring Surgery

Abdominal contouring surgery focuses on restoring muscle support and improving abdominal tone to create a leaner, more comfortable, and naturally contoured appearance. To learn more about this procedure from a trusted medical authority, you can read about abdominal contouring through the Canadian Society of Plastic Surgeons.

Your Next Step

Explore our photo gallery to see real abdominal contouring patient before and after results and imagine what is possible. When you are ready, request a consultation with Dr. Seal or call us at (604) 569-2895.

We look forward to hearing from you and supporting you on your journey feeling more confident, empowered, and beautifully you.

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Body Procedures

Your Abdominal Contouring Consultation

A Personalized Surgical Approach

Abdominal contouring surgery is highly individualized and begins with a thorough consultation. In many cases, the procedure focuses primarily on tightening and repositioning abdominal muscles that have stretched or shifted over time — most commonly following pregnancy.

Muscle Repair vs. Skin and Fat Removal

While muscle repair is the primary focus, some individuals may benefit from the removal of a small amount of skin or fat from the lower abdomen. In certain situations, abdominal contouring may incorporate elements of a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) or liposuction to refine the waistline and enhance overall balance.

Preparing for Surgery

Preparing your body for surgery is an important part of achieving safe, long-lasting results. A nutritious diet, consistent movement, and sustainable lifestyle habits all support healing and recovery. Smoking must be stopped prior to surgery, as it significantly increases surgical risks and can interfere with healing.

Surgical Technique and Incision Placement

During surgery, an incision is made along the lower abdomen to access and repair the weakened abdominal muscles. For more focused abdominal contouring, the incision is typically shorter than that used for a full abdominoplasty. Dr. Seal prioritizes careful incision placement to make scars as discreet and well-hidden as possible.

Scar Placement and Scar Care

You are welcome to bring a favourite bikini bottom or style of underwear on the day of surgery to help guide scar placement. While incisions are necessary, they are thoughtfully positioned and continue to soften and fade over the year following surgery. Scar care and healing strategies are reviewed in detail during your follow-up appointments.

See Dr Seal's Abdominal Contouring Before & After Gallery

What to Expect During Your Recovery

Outpatient Surgery and Immediate Recovery

Abdominal contouring surgery is usually performed as an outpatient procedure at a private surgical facility, allowing you to return home the same day to rest and recover.

Recovery Timeline and Time Off

Most patients feel progressively better over the first two weeks. When planning time away from work or social activities, allowing two to three weeks for recovery is generally recommended.

Compression Garments and Activity Restrictions

A compression garment is worn under clothing to reduce swelling and provide abdominal support. Heavy lifting and strenuous exercise should be avoided for approximately four weeks to protect the healing muscles.

Follow-Up Visits and Drain Care

Dr. Seal will see you regularly during your recovery to ensure healing is progressing well and to address any questions. Temporary drains may be used for the first few days to prevent fluid buildup and are removed during an office visit with full care instructions provided.

Long-Term Results and Healing

Final results develop gradually over several months as swelling resolves and the abdomen settles into its new shape. Scars continue to fade over the first year, and ongoing guidance is provided to help you achieve the best possible outcome.

Functional and Aesthetic Benefits

Abdominal contouring can be transformative not only in appearance, but also in comfort and function. Many patients report feeling stronger through their core, enjoying a smoother, flatter abdomen, and finding clothing fits more comfortably. Everyday movement and exercise often feel easier, more supported, and more enjoyable.