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Breast Implant Scarring: What’s Normal and How to Help It FadeScarring is a natural part of healing after breast augmentation or implant surgery. While scars can’t be avoided completely, they typically fade over time and can often be minimized with proper care. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. David Kim performs breast augmentation for patients in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, CA, and surrounding locations.

Where Scars Are Located

What’s Normal in Breast Implant Scarring

When to Seek Medical Advice

If scars become unusually raised, thick, itchy, or painful, you may be experiencing hypertrophic or keloid scarring. In such cases, a surgeon may recommend additional treatments.

Tips to Help Scars Fade

FAQs About Breast Implant Scars

Will scars always be visible?
Most fade significantly and are easily hidden with clothing or swimwear.

Are some people more prone to noticeable scars?
Yes—genetics and skin type play a big role.

Can scars be treated later if they don’t fade?
Yes—options like laser therapy, microneedling, or steroid injections can improve their appearance.

Schedule a Consultation with Beverly Hills California Plastic Surgeon Dr. Kim

For more information on the surgical and non-surgical procedures and treatments by Cosmetic Plastic Surgeons Dr. David Kim and Dr. Eugene Kim.  Click here to contact us today.

Also visit drdavidkim.com

Serving Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, West Hollywood, Orange County, Southern California and surrounding areas.

How to Know If You’re Ready for a Breast LiftA breast lift, or mastopexy, is designed to raise and reshape sagging breasts for a more youthful, lifted appearance. But how do you know if it’s the right time to consider one? Here’s what you should know about breast lift candidacy and the signs that suggest you may be ready. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. David Kim performs breast lift for patients in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, CA, and surrounding locations.

Signs You May Be Ready for a Breast Lift

Factors That Make You a Good Candidate

Combining a Breast Lift with Other Procedures

FAQs About Breast Lifts

Will a breast lift make my breasts smaller?
No, but some skin removal may make them look slightly smaller.

How long do results last?
Many women enjoy results for 10–15 years, depending on skin quality and lifestyle.

Can I still breastfeed after a lift?
Some women may be able to, but it is best to complete breastfeeding before surgery.

Schedule a Consultation with Beverly Hills California Plastic Surgeon Dr. Kim

For more information on the surgical and non-surgical procedures and treatments by Cosmetic Plastic Surgeons Dr. David Kim and Dr. Eugene Kim.  Click here to contact us today.

Also visit drdavidkim.com

Serving Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, West Hollywood, Orange County, Southern California and surrounding areas.

How Breast Shape Impacts Breast Augmentation Results | Beverly HillsWhen planning for breast augmentation, most patients focus on implant size, type, and profile—but one factor that’s just as important (and often overlooked) is your natural breast shape. Your existing breast anatomy plays a major role in determining how implants will look and sit on your body, and understanding it can help you set realistic expectations and choose the right surgical plan for the best possible outcome.

In this blog, we’ll explore how different breast shapes affect augmentation results, what your plastic surgeon looks for during consultation, and how your anatomy can influence implant selection, incision type, and final appearance. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. David Kim performs breast augmentation for patients in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, CA, and surrounding locations.

Why Breast Shape Matters in Breast Augmentation

Breast implants don’t exist in a vacuum—they work in harmony with your existing tissue, chest wall, and skin. That means the same implant placed in two different patients can look completely different depending on the starting point. Your natural breast shape influences:

During your consultation, a skilled plastic surgeon will assess your breast shape along with size, position, skin quality, and overall proportions to create a plan that matches your goals and anatomy.

Common Natural Breast Shapes

Every body is unique, but here are some general categories that describe breast shape variations:

Round Breasts

Evenly full at the top and bottom, round breasts tend to respond well to augmentation. These patients usually want increased volume without significant reshaping.

Teardrop Breasts

Fuller at the bottom than the top, this shape creates a natural, sloped profile. Implants can add upper pole fullness if desired, especially with higher-profile implants.

Tubular (Tuberous) Breasts

Characterized by a narrow base, large areolas, and breast tissue that herniates outward. Patients with tubular breasts often require a more complex surgical approach, including breast reshaping, areolar correction, and sometimes a lift.

Wide-Set Breasts

With more space between the breasts, patients with a wide-set shape may have less cleavage naturally. Implant selection and placement can help improve central fullness, but some spacing may remain.

Asymmetrical Breasts

Almost all women have some degree of breast asymmetry. In more noticeable cases, your surgeon may recommend different implant sizes or a lift on one side to create better balance.

Low or Ptotic Breasts

Breasts that sit low on the chest or have significant droop may need a breast lift (mastopexy) in addition to augmentation. Implants alone won’t correct nipple position or excess skin.

How Breast Shape Influences Implant Selection

Your natural shape helps guide your surgeon’s decisions about:

Implant Size and Profile

If you have a narrow chest or tight skin envelope, you may need a smaller or moderate-profile implant to avoid unnatural bulging. For flatter, teardrop-shaped breasts, a higher-profile implant may help restore upper pole volume.

Implant Placement (Above or Below the Muscle)

Patients with very little natural tissue may benefit from submuscular placement for more coverage and a natural look. Those with more existing volume may be candidates for subglandular placement to create more lift and projection.

Incision Location

Tubular breasts or significant asymmetry may require a periareolar or vertical incision for reshaping, while other patients may benefit from a discreet inframammary fold incision.

Need for a Breast Lift

If your breast shape includes droop or nipple ptosis, implants alone won’t lift the tissue. A lift combined with augmentation can reshape and elevate the breasts for a more youthful, centered result.

Realistic Expectations Based on Shape

Understanding your breast shape helps set realistic expectations. For example:

The goal of breast augmentation isn’t just to increase size—it’s to create symmetry, balance, and harmony with your overall proportions.

Questions to Ask During Your Consultation

To make sure your breast shape is fully considered in your surgical plan, ask your surgeon:

A personalized, anatomy-aware approach is key to a successful outcome.

Why a Customized Surgical Plan Is Essential

There is no one-size-fits-all in breast augmentation. Your surgeon should evaluate your shape, skin elasticity, nipple position, rib cage anatomy, and personal preferences to create a result that looks and feels right for your body.

Skilled plastic surgeons use techniques like internal pocket creation, dual-plane placement, or tailored implant sizing to adapt to various shapes. The result? A natural-looking enhancement that fits you—not a generic outcome.

Your Shape, Your Results

Your natural breast shape is the foundation on which your augmentation results are built. By understanding how it affects implant selection, placement, and surgical strategy, you can approach the process with confidence and clarity. With the right surgeon and a personalized plan, you can achieve beautiful, natural-looking results that complement your unique figure.

Thinking About Breast Augmentation?

Schedule a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon to learn how your breast shape affects your options—and how to get the results you’ve been dreaming of.

Schedule a Consultation with Beverly Hills California Plastic Surgeon Dr. Kim

For more information on the surgical and non-surgical procedures and treatments by Cosmetic Plastic Surgeons Dr. David Kim and Dr. Eugene Kim.  Click here to contact us today.

Also visit drdavidkim.com

Serving Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, West Hollywood, Orange County, Southern California and surrounding areas.

Tummy Tuck Recovery Time Before SummerDreaming of a flatter, firmer midsection by summer? If you’re considering a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) to reshape your waistline and feel more confident in swimsuits or fitted clothing, it’s essential to plan your surgery around the recovery timeline. While the results can be transformative, a tummy tuck is a major surgery—and your body will need time to heal, recover, and reveal its full results.

So, how long does it take to recover from a tummy tuck? And when should you schedule your procedure if you want to look and feel your best by summer? In this blog, we’ll walk you through the typical tummy tuck recovery timeline, what to expect each week, and tips for getting bikini-ready before the warm weather hits. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. David Kim performs tummy tuck for patients in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, CA, and surrounding locations.

What Does a Tummy Tuck Involve?

A tummy tuck is a cosmetic surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen and tightens the underlying abdominal muscles. It’s often performed after significant weight loss, pregnancy, or aging-related skin laxity. There are different types of tummy tucks—full, mini, and extended—but all require a recovery period and post-surgical care.

How Long Is Tummy Tuck Recovery?

Most patients need 6 to 8 weeks for initial tummy tuck recovery, though final results may take several months to fully develop. Here’s a general timeline of what to expect:

Week 1: Rest and Limited Movement

You’ll be sore, swollen, and likely walking hunched over to reduce tension on your incision. You’ll need help with daily activities, and it’s important to follow your surgeon’s post-op instructions closely.

Weeks 2–3: Gentle Activity Resumes

You may start walking more comfortably and resume light household activities. Most patients can return to desk jobs within 10–14 days, but driving, lifting, and exercise are still restricted.

Weeks 4–6: Swelling Improves, Energy Increases

You’ll begin to feel more like yourself, with reduced bruising and swelling. You may be cleared to resume light exercise or return to non-strenuous work.

Weeks 6–8: Results Begin to Take Shape

Compression garments may still be worn, but you’ll likely feel comfortable in regular clothes. You’ll start to see your new shape emerge, and scars begin to fade. Many patients return to full physical activity around this time.

3+ Months: Final Results

By 12 weeks, most swelling is gone, and your body has settled into its new contours. Your scar will continue to fade over the next 6–12 months.

When Should You Schedule Your Tummy Tuck to Be Ready for Summer?

To feel confident and fully recovered by June or July, here’s a rough planning guide:

Why It’s Important to Plan Ahead

Tummy tuck recovery requires rest, patience, and preparation. Trying to rush the healing process can increase risks like:

By scheduling your surgery early in the year, you give your body enough time to heal properly—so you can enjoy the season without bandages, compression garments, or self-consciousness.

Tips for a Smooth Recovery Before Summer

What If You Need a Tummy Tuck + Liposuction?

Combining liposuction with your tummy tuck is a popular way to enhance results by sculpting the waist, flanks, and upper abdomen. However, it may add slightly more swelling and increase initial downtime. If you plan to combine procedures, earlier surgery is best to give your body ample time to recover before summer.

Am I a Good Candidate for a Tummy Tuck?

You may be a candidate if you:

Your surgeon will evaluate your anatomy and goals during consultation and recommend the best timeline and surgical approach to meet your needs.

Timing Is Everything

A tummy tuck can deliver dramatic, life-changing results—but it’s not an overnight transformation. If you want to feel confident in your skin and wardrobe by summer, the time to plan is now. By understanding the recovery timeline and working with a qualified, board-certified plastic surgeon, you can achieve beautiful, natural-looking results—and be fully healed and ready to show them off when warm weather arrives.

Ready for a Flatter Stomach by Summer?

Schedule a consultation today to discuss your tummy tuck options and create a personalized surgical plan and recovery timeline. With the right preparation, this summer can be your most confident one yet.

Schedule a Consultation with Beverly Hills California Plastic Surgeon Dr. Kim

For more information on the surgical and non-surgical procedures and treatments by Cosmetic Plastic Surgeons Dr. David Kim and Dr. Eugene Kim.  Click here to contact us today.

Also visit drdavidkim.com

Serving Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, West Hollywood, Orange County, Southern California and surrounding areas.

Can Liposuction Help with Cellulite Reduction? | Beverly HillsLiposuction is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures for removing unwanted fat — but can it help with cellulite? The answer isn’t straightforward, and understanding how cellulite forms is key to setting the right expectations. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. David Kim performs liposuction for patients in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, CA, and surrounding locations.

What Causes Cellulite?

Cellulite appears as dimpled or uneven skin, typically on the thighs, buttocks, or abdomen. It results from:

– Fibrous bands pulling down on the skin
– Fat pushing up between these bands
– Thinner skin that makes these irregularities more visible

It’s more common in women due to different fat distribution and skin structure.

Liposuction and Cellulite

Liposuction removes fat, but it doesn’t address the fibrous bands causing cellulite. In fact:

– Liposuction may slightly improve the appearance of cellulite in some cases
– It can sometimes worsen the appearance if skin elasticity is poor
– It is not a cellulite-specific treatment

Best Treatments for Cellulite

If your primary concern is cellulite, consider other options such as:

– Avéli™ – releases the fibrous septa causing dimples
– Cellfina® – targets the structural causes of cellulite
– Radiofrequency or laser treatments – tighten skin and improve texture

These treatments directly target the cause of cellulite and offer better, more reliable outcomes than liposuction.

Combining Liposuction with Cellulite Treatments

For patients wanting fat reduction and smoother skin, a combination approach may be best. Your provider can develop a custom plan that includes liposuction along with cellulite-specific technology.

While liposuction is excellent for fat reduction and body sculpting, it isn’t designed to treat cellulite. To effectively address cellulite, talk to your surgeon about specialized treatments that can be paired with liposuction for optimal results.

Schedule a Consultation with Beverly Hills California Plastic Surgeon Dr. Kim

For more information on the surgical and non-surgical procedures and treatments by Cosmetic Plastic Surgeons Dr. David Kim and Dr. Eugene Kim.  Click here to contact us today.

Also visit drdavidkim.com

Serving Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, West Hollywood, Orange County, Southern California and surrounding areas.

The Benefits of Combining Liposuction with Your Tummy Tuck ProcedureWhen it comes to achieving a flat, contoured abdomen, a tummy tuck and liposuction are often the perfect pair. While a tummy tuck removes loose skin and tightens muscles, liposuction targets stubborn fat deposits for a more sculpted look. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. David Kim performs breast augmentation for patients in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, CA, and surrounding locations.

Why Combine the Two?

On their own, each procedure offers specific benefits:

– Tummy tuck: Removes excess skin and repairs abdominal muscles
– Liposuction: Removes localized fat from areas like the flanks or upper abdomen

Together, they provide comprehensive reshaping of the midsection and surrounding areas.

Enhanced Body Contour

Combining liposuction with a tummy tuck allows your surgeon to:

– Sculpt the waistline for an hourglass figure
– Smooth out bulges around the hips and back
– Ensure a natural transition between the abdomen and flanks

This synergy produces more balanced, harmonious results.

Single Surgery, One Recovery

Rather than undergoing two separate surgeries:

– You only go under anesthesia once
– There’s a single recovery period
– You save time and cost

This makes combination surgery more efficient and convenient for many patients.

Are You a Good Candidate?

Ideal candidates are:

– In good overall health
– At or near a stable weight
– Non-smokers with realistic expectations

Your surgeon will evaluate your skin elasticity, fat distribution, and muscle condition to determine if this combination is right for you.

Liposuction and tummy tuck work exceptionally well together to reshape the entire abdominal area. If you’re seeking a more comprehensive body contouring solution, discuss the option of combining these two procedures during your consultation.

Schedule a Consultation with Beverly Hills California Plastic Surgeon Dr. Kim

For more information on the surgical and non-surgical procedures and treatments by Cosmetic Plastic Surgeons Dr. David Kim and Dr. Eugene Kim.  Click here to contact us today.

Also visit drdavidkim.com

Serving Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, West Hollywood, Orange County, Southern California and surrounding areas.

Breast Implants and Exercise: How to Safely Stay Active Post-SurgeryStaying active is essential for a healthy lifestyle, but after breast augmentation, it’s important to ease back into exercise carefully. Returning too soon or too aggressively can affect healing, implant positioning, and overall results. Here’s how to safely stay active after getting breast implants. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. David Kim performs breast augmentation for patients in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, CA, and surrounding locations.

The Importance of Rest in Early Recovery

In the first few days after surgery, rest is crucial. Your body needs time to:

– Heal the incision sites
– Minimize swelling and bruising
– Allow the implants to settle into place

Avoid all upper body movement, lifting, or stretching during this period.

Week-by-Week Recovery Timeline

Week 1:
– Short walks are encouraged to prevent blood clots
– No lifting over 5 pounds
– Avoid raising arms above shoulder height

Weeks 2–3:
– Light cardio (walking, stationary cycling)
– Still avoid chest or upper body workouts
– Continue wearing compression bra

Weeks 4–6:
– Gradual reintroduction of upper body movement
– Low-impact workouts like yoga or elliptical

After Week 6 (with surgeon clearance):
– Resume full workouts, including weightlifting
– Avoid chest-specific movements (push-ups, bench press) until cleared

Long-Term Tips for Exercising with Implants

– Wear high-support sports bras during cardio or high-impact activity
– Listen to your body and stop if you feel discomfort
– Modify upper body exercises to reduce pressure on the chest

Implant Placement Considerations

Submuscular (under the muscle) implants may take longer to adjust to heavy lifting than subglandular (over the muscle) placements. Discuss your workout routine with your surgeon during your consultation so they can tailor your recovery plan.

You don’t have to give up your active lifestyle after breast augmentation — you just need a smart, phased return to movement. Follow your surgeon’s guidance, wear the right support, and focus on long-term wellness.

Schedule a Consultation with Beverly Hills California Plastic Surgeon Dr. Kim

For more information on the surgical and non-surgical procedures and treatments by Cosmetic Plastic Surgeons Dr. David Kim and Dr. Eugene Kim.  Click here to contact us today.

Also visit drdavidkim.com

Serving Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, West Hollywood, Orange County, Southern California and surrounding areas.

Breast Implants and Weight Changes | Beverly Hills Plastic SurgeryWeight fluctuations are a natural part of life, but how do they affect your breast implants? Whether you gain or lose weight after augmentation, changes in your body composition can influence the appearance and feel of your results. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. David Kim performs breast augmentation for patients in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, CA, and surrounding locations.

How Weight Gain Affects Breast Implants

Gaining weight adds fat to various parts of the body — including the breasts. If you gain weight after getting implants:

– Your natural breast tissue may enlarge, making your breasts appear bigger
– The overall shape may change slightly, especially if the weight gain is significant
– Implants themselves don’t change, but added fat can make them look fuller

The impact depends on your body type and where you store fat.

How Weight Loss Affects Breast Implants

Losing weight can reduce the fat content in your natural breast tissue, which may lead to:

– A more pronounced implant appearance
– Slight sagging if skin elasticity is poor
– A “looser” feel in the breast area

Patients with very large implants may see less dramatic changes, while those with smaller implants might notice the contrast more.

Maintaining a Stable Weight

To preserve your augmentation results:

– Maintain a stable, healthy weight
– Eat a balanced diet and stay active
– Avoid extreme yo-yo dieting

Consistency is key to long-lasting, natural-looking results.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Pregnancy often leads to weight gain and changes in breast tissue. These changes can affect:

– Breast size and skin elasticity
– The position of the implants
– The need for a future lift or revision

Discuss your family plans with your surgeon before surgery to factor them into your implant choice.

Weight changes don’t directly impact the integrity of your implants, but they can alter the appearance of your breasts. Maintaining a healthy, stable weight helps protect your investment and prolongs your satisfaction with your results.

Schedule a Consultation with Beverly Hills California Plastic Surgeon Dr. Kim

For more information on the surgical and non-surgical procedures and treatments by Cosmetic Plastic Surgeons Dr. David Kim and Dr. Eugene Kim.  Click here to contact us today.

Also visit drdavidkim.com

Serving Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, West Hollywood, Orange County, Southern California and surrounding areas.

Breast Implant Placement FAQs | Beverly Hills SurgeryBreast augmentation is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures worldwide. If you’re considering breast implants, you probably have a lot of questions about the placement options and what’s best for you. This blog will address the most common FAQs regarding breast implant placement.  Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. David Kim performs breast augmentation for patients in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, CA, and surrounding locations.

1. What Are the Different Types of Breast Implant Placement?

There are two primary placement options for breast implants:

A variation, known as dual-plane placement, places the upper part of the implant under the muscle and the lower part under the breast tissue.

2. Which Placement Option Looks More Natural?

3. Which Placement Option Is Best for Active Individuals?

If you’re an athlete or engage in frequent upper-body workouts, subglandular placement may be preferable because it avoids interference with the pectoral muscles. However, many athletes still opt for submuscular placement for a more natural appearance.

4. Is One Placement Option More Painful Than the Other?

5. How Does Placement Affect the Risk of Capsular Contracture?

Capsular contracture is a condition where scar tissue forms tightly around the implant. Research suggests that submuscular placement may lower the risk of capsular contracture compared to subglandular placement.

6. Does Placement Affect Mammograms?

Yes. Submuscular implants tend to interfere less with mammograms, making it easier to detect abnormalities compared to subglandular implants. It’s important to inform your radiologist about your implants during a mammogram.

7. Will the Placement Affect Sagging Over Time?

8. How Do I Decide Which Placement Is Best for Me?

Choosing the best implant placement depends on several factors, including:

Conclusion

Deciding on breast implant placement is a crucial step in your breast augmentation journey. Consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to determine which option best suits your goals and body type. With the right choice, you can achieve beautiful, natural-looking results that enhance your confidence.

Schedule a Consultation with Beverly Hills California Plastic Surgeon Dr. Kim

For more information on the surgical and non-surgical procedures and treatments by Cosmetic Plastic Surgeons Dr. David Kim and Dr. Eugene Kim.  Click here to contact us today.

Also visit drdavidkim.com

Serving Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, West Hollywood, Orange County, Southern California and surrounding areas.

Breast Augmentation Recovery FAQs | Beverly Hills SurgeryBreast augmentation is an exciting journey, but the recovery process is just as important as the procedure itself. Knowing what to expect can help you heal faster and achieve the best results. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about breast augmentation recovery. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. David Kim performs breast augmentation for patients in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, CA, and surrounding locations.

1. How Long Does It Take to Recover from Breast Augmentation?

Most patients can resume light activities within a few days, but full recovery takes about six to eight weeks. Your surgeon will provide a specific timeline based on your procedure and individual healing process.

2. Will I Be in Pain After Surgery?

Some discomfort is expected, especially in the first few days. Pain levels vary depending on implant placement:

3. When Can I Resume Normal Activities?

4. What Should I Avoid During Recovery?

5. How Should I Sleep After Surgery?

It’s best to sleep on your back with your upper body elevated for at least a few weeks. This reduces swelling and discomfort while promoting proper healing.

6. Will There Be Swelling and Bruising?

Yes, swelling and bruising are normal. Swelling peaks in the first week and gradually decreases over the following weeks. Wearing a compression bra can help reduce swelling and support your new breasts.

7. How Do I Care for My Incisions?

8. When Will My Implants Settle Into Place?

Initially, implants may appear high on the chest due to swelling and muscle tightness. This is called the drop and fluff process, which usually takes a few months as the implants settle into a more natural position.

9. What Are Signs of Complications During Recovery?

While complications are rare, contact your surgeon if you experience:

10. When Can I Wear a Normal Bra?

Most surgeons recommend wearing a surgical or soft sports bra for the first 6 weeks. Underwire bras should be avoided until your surgeon gives the go-ahead.

Conclusion

A smooth recovery is essential for the best breast augmentation results. By following your surgeon’s guidelines, taking care of your body, and being patient, you’ll be on your way to enjoying your new look. If you have any concerns during recovery, don’t hesitate to reach out to your surgeon.

Schedule a Consultation with Beverly Hills California Plastic Surgeon Dr. Kim

For more information on the surgical and non-surgical procedures and treatments by Cosmetic Plastic Surgeons Dr. David Kim and Dr. Eugene Kim.  Click here to contact us today.

Also visit drdavidkim.com

Serving Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, West Hollywood, Orange County, Southern California and surrounding areas.