About
Dr. Kate Elzinga is a highly skilled Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon, committed to excellence in both reconstructive and aesthetic plastic surgery. She is based at a specialized plastic surgery clinic in Calgary, located in the SE: Mahogany, Auburn Bay neighbourhood. The clinic serves as a dedicated space for consultations and procedures, offering a professional, private, and patient-focused environment. The practice adheres strictly to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA), ensuring the highest level of safety and quality in care. She offers a comprehensive range of services, addressing both functional restoration and cosmetic enhancement. She is adept at procedures such as breast reconstruction, skin cancer treatment, trauma repair, as well as aesthetic surgeries including facelifts, breast augmentation, and body contouring. Her particular focus involves specializing in restoring form and function to the body due to congenital defects, trauma, burns, or medical conditions like cancer. The practice is dedicated to providing the highest standard of plastic and reconstructive surgery, combining surgical artistry with advanced techniques and a steadfast commitment to patient safety and satisfaction.
Dr. Elzinga graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the University of Calgary in 2011. She is an experienced Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon with extensive postgraduate training, including specialized residency programs in plastic surgery. Her certifications include the Medical License to Practice in Alberta (LMCC) and her fellowship with the Royal College of Surgeons of Canada (FRCSC) in Plastic Surgery. She maintains a strong commitment to ongoing education, staying current with the latest advances in her field to ensure her patients benefit from the most effective and safe surgical options.
Her professional philosophy centers on achieving natural-looking, harmonious results that align with individual patient goals. She prioritizes patient safety, comfort, and confidentiality within a supportive environment. Dr. Elzinga emphasizes thorough consultations to ensure her patients are fully informed and empowered in their decisions. She utilizes the latest proven techniques in both reconstructive and aesthetic surgery, combined with a dedication to continuous refinement of her surgical skills. Her approach reflects a deep commitment to patient well-being and personalized care, offering all communication and care in English for clarity and comfort.
Dr. Kate Elzinga addresses a wide array of conditions requiring plastic and reconstructive expertise, including:
Reconstructive Surgery (Trauma, Burns, Post-Mastectomy)
Dr. Elzinga addresses complex surgical procedures to repair injuries, correct deformities, and improve quality of life after significant tissue damage or loss.
- Lower Extremity Reconstruction (Post-Trauma or Disease): Surgical repair of complex wounds or defects of the legs, ankles, and feet resulting from trauma, infection, or conditions like diabetic ulcers.
- Burn Reconstruction (Acute and Secondary): Focus on improving function, appearance, and reducing long-term complications of burns.
Skin Cancer and Benign Skin Lesion Removal
Dr. Elzinga addresses surgical diagnosis and treatment of cancerous and non-cancerous skin growths.
- Benign Skin Lesions (e.g., Cysts, Lipomas, Moles/Nevi, Skin Tags): Surgical removal of non-cancerous skin growths for cosmetic reasons, discomfort, irritation, or diagnostic uncertainty.
- Reconstructive Surgery after Skin Cancer Removal: Repair of defects created by the excision of skin cancers, especially on the face or other cosmetically sensitive areas.
- Melanoma Excision and Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy: Surgical removal of melanoma (a serious form of skin cancer) with appropriate safety margins.
This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation of your specific needs, a consultation with Dr. Kate Elzinga is essential.
- Cosmetic Surgery Consultation: Personalized consultation focused on aesthetic enhancement of the face, breast, or body.
- Breast Reconstruction (Implant or Autologous Tissue): Surgical restoration of breast shape and volume after mastectomy or lumpectomy.
- Post-operative Care and Follow-up for Plastic Surgery: Management of dressings, drains, and post-operative discomfort.
- Burn Reconstruction and Scar Management: Comprehensive care to address the physical and psychological impact of burns.
- Skin Cancer Reconstruction (Mohs Defect Repair): Emphasis on restoring natural contours, especially on the face.
- Comprehensive Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Consultation: Thorough assessment of patient goals, medical history, and anatomical considerations to determine appropriate surgical or non-surgical options.
- Hand Surgery (Reconstructive and Trauma): Microsurgical techniques are often employed for delicate repairs.
Note: This list provides an overview. Specific procedures and suitability are determined after a thorough consultation with Dr. Elzinga.
All plastic and reconstructive surgery services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) and relevant Canadian Society of Plastic Surgeons (CSPS) and the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada guidelines. A referral from a physician may be required for consultations regarding medically necessary procedures.
Dr. Elzinga practices at a specialized plastic surgery clinic situated in Calgary's SE: Mahogany, Auburn Bay neighbourhood. The clinic is conveniently located near Chinook Centre and is easily accessible via Calgary Transit, including CTrain LRT, bus, and BRT routes. The facility is designed to be accessible and comfortable for all patients, providing a private, professional environment for consultations and procedures. Patients typically find convenient parking options nearby, ensuring ease of access for both initial consultations and follow-up visits. The clinic offers a welcoming space dedicated to high-quality, patient-centered care in a serene setting, emphasizing safety, privacy, and personalized attention.
- What are some common procedures performed by a Plastic Surgeon like Dr. Elzinga?
- As a Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Elzinga is skilled in numerous operations. These can range from reconstructive work like repairing burn scars or facial trauma, to cosmetic enhancements such as rhinoplasty (nose reshaping), abdominoplasty (tummy tuck), and various breast surgeries. a Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon, specializing in restoring form and function to the body due to congenital defects, trauma, burns, or medical conditions like cancer.
- What is the typical recovery time after plastic surgery with Dr. Elzinga?
- The recovery period following surgery with Dr. Elzinga is tailored to the specific operation. Minimally invasive cosmetic procedures might have minimal downtime, while more extensive reconstructive or body contouring surgeries require a longer healing phase. Dr. Elzinga will discuss your expected recovery, including return to work and activities, as part of your surgical plan.
- What is the difference between reconstructive and cosmetic plastic surgery, and does Dr. Elzinga perform both?
- Reconstructive plastic surgery addresses physical abnormalities to improve function and normalize appearance (e.g., breast reconstruction after mastectomy, cleft lip repair). Cosmetic plastic surgery is focused on enhancing aesthetic features (e.g., facelift, breast augmentation). Dr. Elzinga, as a board-certified Plastic Surgeon, is skilled in aspects of both reconstructive and cosmetic surgery. specializing in restoring form and function to the body due to congenital defects, trauma, burns, or medical conditions like cancer.
- Why is a consultation with Dr. Elzinga important before deciding on a procedure?
- A consultation with Dr. Elzinga is a crucial first step. It allows her to understand your goals and concerns, assess your medical history and anatomy, and discuss all suitable treatment options, including potential risks and benefits. This personalized assessment ensures that you can make an informed decision and that the chosen procedure is tailored to achieve the best possible and safest outcome for you.
- What does a Plastic Surgeon like Dr. Elzinga specialize in?
- Dr. Elzinga is a Plastic Surgeon with expertise in a broad range of surgical procedures. This includes reconstructive surgery to restore form and function, and cosmetic surgery to improve aesthetic appearance. specializing in restoring form and function to the body due to congenital defects, trauma, burns, or medical conditions like cancer.
- Why is it important for a Plastic Surgeon like Dr. Elzinga to be board-certified?
- Board certification by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada in Plastic Surgery (FRCSC) signifies that a surgeon like Dr. Elzinga has completed an accredited residency training program and has passed comprehensive written and oral examinations covering all aspects of plastic surgery, both reconstructive and cosmetic. It's a mark of high standards in training, knowledge, and surgical competence, ensuring she is qualified to perform a wide range of plastic surgery procedures safely and effectively.
a specialized plastic surgery clinic in Calgary
4448 Front St SE
Calgary, AB T3M 1M4
Office Phone: (403) 956-3867 | Office Fax: (403) 956-1598
Dr. Elzinga is a licensed Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act in AB. A referral from a family physician may be required for consultations regarding medically necessary procedures covered by the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP). For cosmetic procedures, a referral is often not required, but it's advisable to discuss with your family doctor. Please contact the office for details.
Verify Dr. Elzinga's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=46dba7d2-6596-4eec-b19d-f65f01a130ae&i=433