Tummy Tuck in Honolulu, Hawaii
Eliminating excess or stretched skin that results from pregnancy or extreme weight loss is the primary reason to get abdominoplasty, often called a tummy tuck. This surgical procedure not only removes loose skin but also tightens weakened abdominal muscles, helping to restore a firmer, more toned midsection.
Unveil Your Ideal Contours with an Expert in Abdominoplasty
In Honolulu, Hawaii, and in Kuwait, Dr. Shim Ching is a body contouring specialist whose advanced training and experience are essential to providing the attractive tummy tuck in Hawaii that you've been looking for. Whether you're seeking to enhance your body contour following significant weight loss or pregnancy, or simply desire a firmer abdominal profile, Dr. Ching’s advanced techniques ensure results that align with your goals.
Abdominoplasty Before & After Photos
Keep in mind that each patient is unique and your results may vary.
Case #520
Dr. Shim Ching performed performed a tummy tuck using no scar belly button technique. This procedure also included liposuction of the abdomen, flanks, mons pubis, and double internal corset plication.
View Photo Gallery
Schedule a consultation
Case #519
Dr. Shim Ching performed performed a tummy tuck using no scar belly button technique. This procedure also included liposuction of the abdomen, flanks, mons pubis, and double internal corset plication.
View Photo Gallery
Schedule a consultation
Case #518
This woman came to see Dr. Shim Ching at his office in Honolulu, Hawaii for a tummy tuck using no scar belly button technique. This procedure included liposuction of the abdomen, flanks, mons pubis, and double internal corset plication.
View Photo Gallery
Schedule a consultation
Case #523
Dr. Shim Ching performed a breast augmentation and tummy tuck. The tummy tuck was done using no scar belly button technique and also included liposuction of the abdomen, flanks, mons pubis, and double internal corset plication. The breast augmentation used the scarless technique through the armpit with silicone implants submuscular.
View Photo Gallery
Schedule a consultation
Case #367
This patient came to see Dr. Shim Ching in Honolulu, Hawaii for a mommy makeover. Doctor performed a combination of his signature transaxillary breast augmentation and mini tummy tuck.
View Photo Gallery
Schedule a consultation
Tummy Tuck Videos with Dr. Shim Ching
Expectations for Your Tummy Tuck
Just like any plastic surgery, the best tummy tuck candidate should:
- Have realistic expectations of what can be accomplished.
- Understand that this is not a substitute for a good diet and/or exercise.
- Be looking for a way to help regain some confidence in their body.
- Know they need to continue to work on their body and health even after the procedure.
This procedure can produce dramatic results for some, but you must go into the initial consultation with the understanding that limitations do exist. Dr. Ching will give you a realistic idea of what can be done for you and your body. His desire is the same as yours — the best possible cosmetic results and protection of your health with his Tummy Tuck in Hawaii.
General Guidelines for Tummy Tuck Candidates
Some benchmarks to keep in mind that make good tummy tuck candidates:
- You are in good physical health
- You’re not excessively overweight
- You have no plans for future pregnancies
- You’re not currently pregnant
Those considering having children in the future are cautioned against a tummy tuck in Hawaii for good reason. The procedure involves the tightening of muscles that could become separated again during pregnancy. Therefore it is best that you be clear on whether having children – or more children – is in your future when deciding on an abdominoplasty.
Again, this article is not a definitive test on whether you are a good candidate or not. That decision should be reserved for you and Dr. Ching at your consultation in our Honolulu offices. However, these guidelines will give you an idea of what conditions make for the best prospect.
Abdominoplasty Consultation
Your consultation is an opportunity to fully explore your objectives for the procedure. Dr. Ching will present to you a straightforward explanation of the results you can expect. If you decide to go ahead with tummy tuck surgery, he will give you guidelines on how you can contribute to the success of your procedure and explain how to prepare for the surgery to best maintain your health and safety. Dr. Ching will also discuss what to expect right after surgery and in the weeks and months that follow.
A consultation with Dr. Ching for a tummy tuck in Honolulu, Hawaii, is an opportunity to fully explore your objectives for the procedure. More importantly, it is the time to make an informed decision with Dr. Ching about whether a tummy tuck is right for you. This page describes what to expect when you meet with him for your for your tummy tuck consultation. To learn more about tummy tuck surgery (abdominoplasty) in Honolulu with Dr. Ching, request a consultation using his online form or call our office to schedule an appointment.
The tummy tuck procedure
A tummy tuck procedure is designed to address issues in both the upper and lower abdomen simultaneously. Patients who are struggling with weakened abdominal muscles or a layer of excess tissue around their midsection can benefit greatly from an abdominoplasty in Hawaii. It can help patients achieve more definition in their abdominal region.
The procedure steps include the following:
- An incision on the umbilical, which gives patients an ‘innie’ belly button
- A short incision at the waistline that is easily hidden by clothing
- Removing excess skin from the area
- Tightening the stomach muscles using sutures
More Abdominoplasty Videos
Asking Questions
The consultation is the time for all your questions to be answered regarding tummy tuck surgery. You may want to write down all the questions you have beforehand, because it’s easy to forget them once you’re in the office. You should feel free to ask anything that concerns you. It will not only help you make a final decision about getting a tummy tuck, but it will also give you a clear understanding of what can be accomplished.
Dr. Ching will present to you a straightforward explanation of the results you can expect during your consultation.
Making Your Tummy Tuck a Success
If you decide to go ahead with tummy tuck in Hawaii, Dr. Ching will give you guidelines on how you can contribute to the success of your procedure. He will explain how to prepare for the surgery to best maintain your health and safety. Dr. Ching will also discuss what to expect right after surgery and in the weeks and months that follow.
Your preparation for surgery is just as important as the surgery itself. That preparation begins with a successful consultation for your abdominoplasty. By preparing for this initial meeting, you’ll be on the right path to a safe, rewarding procedure.
What can I expect during my tummy tuck in Hawaii?
Dr. Ching performs tummy tuck surgery as an outpatient procedure. The incision for a full tummy tuck typically runs between the hip bones, low enough to be covered by underwear or a swimsuit. Dr. Ching is very aware that this scar should be placed as low as possible so it will be as hidden as much as possible. A second incision is made around the belly button. After making the incisions, Dr. Ching removes loose skin and excess fat. In some cases, stretch marks of the lower abdomen are completely removed along with the excess skin.
He also flattens a protruding abdomen by tightening stretched or separated abdominal muscles, which is almost always necessary. Next, Dr. Ching constructs a new belly button. To provide the most natural-looking results possible, he hides the scar within the belly button.
As a skilled, knowledgeable, board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Ching can provide dramatic changes in body shape by combining abdominoplasty with liposuction. Many women make abdominoplasty part of a comprehensive surgical plan called a mommy makeover.
Tummy Tuck Recovery
You will have some swelling and pain for a few days, which is typically well-managed through prescribed medication Dr. Ching will give you guidelines on the amount of bed rest required, when it is OK to shower, how quickly you can begin exercise, and when you may return to work.
These recommendations are made to ensure that you have the quickest and safest recovery possible. Following these instructions is a great way to take an active role in your recovery and achieve the optimal results from your tummy tuck in Honolulu.
Fast Recovery After a Tummy Tuck
Rectus Diastasis
Rectus diastasis is a condition in which the rectus abdominis muscle separates during or after pregnancy. The rectus abdominis muscle is the muscle that runs vertically along the front of your stomach. When you have this condition, it can cause your belly to slightly stick out just above or below the belly button. To repair rectus diastasis, Dr. Ching uses permanent sutures to close the separation of the muscle. To reduce the likelihood of rectus diastasis during the postpartum period, you should:
- Avoid lifting anything heavier than your baby
- Roll onto your side before getting out of bed or sitting up
- Focus on good posture
- Avoid activities that involve pushing your abdominal muscles outward, such as sit-ups and crunches
What to Expect After Your Tummy Tuck
Recovery and Exercise
In the initial days after your tummy tuck, expect some swelling and discomfort, which can be managed with prescribed medication. Dr. Ching will provide specific guidelines on rest, showering, and exercise. Gentle activities like walking can help reduce swelling and boost your immune system, but always consult Dr. Ching before starting any exercise to avoid complications.
Following your tummy tuck in Honolulu, Hawaii, you'll enter the post-operative recovery phase. Your body needs time to adjust to the changes made during surgery, and recovery time varies based on several factors, including your overall health and fitness level. Generally, patients in better physical shape before surgery recover more quickly.
Post-Surgery Recommendations
Dr. Ching will advise on:
- Bed rest duration: How much rest you'll need.
- Hygiene: When you can shower or bathe.
- Exercise: When and how to start light activities.
- Returning to work: A timeline for resuming your job.
- Other activities: Guidelines for everyday tasks and movements.
Following these recommendations is crucial for a smooth and swift recovery and achieving the best results from your tummy tuck. While some scarring is inevitable, Dr. Ching’s advanced techniques aim to minimize it, often positioning scars after your abdominoplasty in Hawaii where they can be concealed by swimwear. Discuss these aspects with Dr. Ching during your consultation to understand how to prepare for your surgery and optimize your recovery.
Dr. Ching's No Scar Belly Button Results
With Dr. Ching's no scar belly button results, during the surgery the scars are within the belly button area and hidden from view on the abdomen itself. (An additional scar is below the underwear line.)
How Long Will Tummy Tuck Results Last?
Every tummy tuck recipient wonders the same thing: How long will the results last? The good news is that a tummy tuck can provide long-lasting, almost permanent results. Studies have shown that the benefits of this procedure can endure for many years after surgery. While natural tissue relaxation occurs as part of aging, this effect is significantly reduced after a tummy tuck, allowing you to enjoy a slimmer, more contoured shape for the long term. However, this procedure is not a substitute for maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and certain factors can influence how well your results are preserved.
To retain your results, it’s important to follow a balanced diet and maintain a stable weight. Extreme weight loss or gain after the procedure can significantly impact your body’s shape and undo the effects of the surgery. Regular exercise is also vital for your overall health and figure. Additionally, future pregnancies can alter your results, so women planning to have more children may want to discuss the timing of surgery with their doctor. While these factors are important to consider, a tummy tuck can still provide transformative and enduring results for most patients.
This safe and effective procedure not only improves your body’s appearance but can also enhance your confidence and quality of life. With proper care and a commitment to a healthy lifestyle, the gains from your tummy tuck can last for many years. Many patients find that the physical transformation motivates them to maintain healthier habits, further extending the benefits of their surgery. If you want to learn more about abdominoplasty or explore other body contouring options, schedule a consultation with Dr. Ching today using the online form or by calling the office.
Directions for our fly-in patients
Dr. Shim Ching's exceptional qualifications and results draw patients to his Honolulu plastic surgery practice from across the Hawaiian Islands including Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island. Select a location for driving directions to our practice.
Am I a Candidate for Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)?
Abdominoplasty, also known as tummy tuck, is a procedure in which the excess skin and fat in the midsection is removed and the muscles of the abdomen are tightened.
Read Blog Post
Will there be scars after my tummy tuck surgery?
Yes, there will be a scar along the lower abdomen where the incision was made. The scar's appearance will improve over time and can usually be concealed beneath clothing and swimwear.
Can a tummy tuck help with weight loss?
While a tummy tuck can remove excess skin and fat, it is not a weight loss procedure. It is best suited for individuals who are close to their ideal weight but have loose abdominal skin and muscle issues.
Will a tummy tuck affect future pregnancies?
If you're planning on having more children, it's generally recommended to delay a tummy tuck until after you've completed your family. Pregnancy after a tummy tuck can affect the results by stretching the abdominal muscles and skin again.
What are the potential risks and complications?
As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications associated with a tummy tuck, such as infection, scarring, blood clots, changes in sensation, and issues related to anesthesia.
Is a tummy tuck covered by insurance?
While a tummy tuck can be transformative for your mood and energy levels, it is not considered a medical procedure and therefore the surgery will not be covered by your insurance carrier. Dr. Ching strives to maintain competitive pricing, however, and offers financing through a variety of reputable healthcare lenders. Costs for surgery will be discussed in more depth during your private consultation.
