What Is a Tummy Tuck?

A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the midsection and tightens weakened or separated abdominal muscles. It’s commonly performed to correct loose skin and restore core strength, especially after pregnancy, major weight loss, or natural aging. This procedure is often a key part of a mommy makeover, but it also benefits men and women seeking a firmer, flatter abdomen and more confident body contour.

Who Is a Good Candidate for a Tummy Tuck?

A tummy tuck in Orange County at Cara Plastic Surgery & Laser Center may be right for you if you are:

  • Struggling with loose, hanging abdominal skin
  • Experiencing muscle separation or core weakness
  • Near your ideal weight but unable to improve your abdomen through exercise
  • A non-smoker in overall good health
  • Realistic about recovery and results

Typical candidates include:

  • Post-pregnancy women: Address stretched skin and abdominal muscles that haven’t returned to their pre-baby condition.
  • Men and women after weight loss: Remove redundant skin and reshape the midsection after significant body transformation.
  • Older adults: Tighten skin and muscles weakened over time by gravity and aging.
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How the Tummy Tuck Procedure Works

Tummy tuck surgery is performed under general anesthesia at our accredited Orange County surgical center. The procedure typically includes:

  • A horizontal incision between the pubic bone and belly button
  • Elevation of the skin and fat layer
  • Tightening of the abdominal muscles with sutures
  • Removal of excess skin and fat
  • Repositioning of the belly button, if needed
  • Closure of the incision to create a slim, low-placed scar

Dr. Kahng’s technique is designed to achieve a flatter, firmer abdomen with a natural contour and minimized scarring.

What to Expect During Recovery

Most patients need about two weeks of downtime following surgery, with full recovery taking several weeks. During your recovery:

  • A compression garment is worn for 4–6 weeks
  • Drainage tubes may be placed temporarily to reduce fluid buildup
  • Activity is limited, especially bending, lifting, and standing fully upright
  • Pain medication is prescribed to ease discomfort during early healing

Dr. Kahng provides personalized recovery instructions and schedules follow-up visits to ensure your progress is smooth and successful.

Combining Tummy Tuck with Other Procedures

A tummy tuck is often combined with:

  • Liposuction: To further sculpt the waist, hips, or flanks
  • Breast surgery: As part of a mommy makeover
  • Thigh lift or arm lift: For a full-body contouring transformation

Combining procedures can reduce overall downtime and maximize aesthetic results.

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How to Prepare for Your Surgery

Preparation is key for optimal outcomes. Before surgery, patients are advised to:

  • Avoid medications or supplements that thin the blood
  • Stop smoking at least two weeks prior
  • Stay hydrated and maintain a healthy diet
  • Arrange for transportation and post-surgical help at home
  • Fill prescriptions ahead of time
  • Avoid food and drink after midnight before your surgery

Dr. Kahng and his team will provide a complete pre-op checklist to guide you.

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What Results Can You Expect?

After healing, you can expect:

  • A noticeably flatter, firmer abdomen
  • Improved waist definition
  • Stronger, re-tightened core muscles
  • A low, well-placed scar that fades over time
  • Easier clothing fit and improved body confidence

Most patients report a significant boost in how they feel in both casual and formal wear—and in their overall quality of life.

Potential Risks and Considerations

All surgeries carry some risk. Though rare, potential complications of tummy tuck surgery may include:

  • Bleeding or infection
  • Poor wound healing or scarring
  • Fluid accumulation (seroma)
  • Skin numbness or changes in sensation
  • Blood clots or anesthesia-related issues

Dr. Kahng uses meticulous surgical technique and conservative planning to reduce these risks and support a safe, smooth recovery.

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Why Choose Dr. Kahng for a Tummy Tuck in Orange County?

Dr. David Kahng is a board-certified plastic surgeon known for his technical precision and aesthetic excellence. He brings years of experience in body contouring procedures and offers fully customized treatment plans that reflect your unique body type and goals. If you're considering abdominoplasty in Orange County, Dr. Kahng’s expertise ensures natural-looking, transformative results.

Cara Plastic Surgery’s Orange County facility is AAAASF-accredited and equipped with the latest surgical technology, ensuring that your experience is both safe and comfortable from consultation through recovery.

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