An apparatus for measuring tension of skin comprises a first rigid leg, a second rigid leg, and means for pivotally connecting proximal ends of the first leg and the second leg such that distal ends of the first leg and the second leg can be moved toward and away from one another. A gauge is carried by one of the first leg or the second leg for giving an indication of the spacing between the distal ends of the first leg and the second leg. Indicia is carried by the other of the first leg or the second leg. A spring arm is connected for resilient, flexible movement relative to one of the first leg or the second leg.