1. A Tummy Tuck Is Not a Weight Loss Procedure

One of the biggest misconceptions is that a tummy tuck is meant for losing weight. In reality, it’s designed for individuals who are at or near their ideal weight but struggle with loose skin, muscle separation, or stubborn fat in the abdominal area—often due to pregnancy, aging, or significant weight loss. Dr. Kim focuses on sculpting and tightening for natural-looking, beautiful results.

2. Every Tummy Tuck Is Customized

No two bodies are the same, and neither are tummy tucks. Dr. Kim evaluates your anatomy, goals, and lifestyle to create a personalized surgical plan. This may include:

– A full tummy tuck for those with more excess skin and separated muscles.
– A mini tummy tuck for those with mild skin laxity below the belly button.
– Liposuction to fine-tune contours and enhance your results.

3. Expect a Thoughtful Recovery Process

While the recovery experience varies, most patients can expect:

– Downtime of 1–2 weeks before returning to light activities.
– Wearing a compression garment for support and swelling reduction.
– Full results gradually developing over several months as swelling subsides.

Dr. Kim provides detailed recovery instructions and ongoing support to ensure a safe and comfortable healing process.

4. Scarring Is Normal—But Managed Carefully

A tummy tuck will leave a scar, typically located low on the abdomen so it’s easily hidden beneath underwear or swimwear. Dr. Kim uses advanced closure techniques to ensure the scar is as fine and flat as possible. With time and proper care, most patients find their scars fade significantly.

5. Results Are Long-Lasting with a Healthy Lifestyle

Tummy tuck results can last many years, especially when maintained with consistent diet and exercise. While the procedure tightens muscles and removes excess skin, gaining or losing significant weight can affect the outcome. That’s why Dr. Kim encourages patients to reach a stable weight before surgery for optimal results.