Dear mbroch, There is a tendency by the lay public to think these different operations are simply commodity procedures with one-size-fits-all and all slang terms connotative equal results. Like any profession or skill the quality of the outcome depends on the skill and experience of the plastic surgeon performing the procedure and listening to the goals and expectation of the patient in order to determine if they are reasonable. We have all seen bad facelifts walking around the mall and other patients whose results leave no telltale signs of an artificial appearance. Pick your surgeon wisely, make sure he or she is board certified by the American Board of plastic surgeons, make sure they have many many before and after shots which reflects their experience, look closely at the scar for the bellybutton and how natural it looks or visible. Notice whether the scars are well hidden in tan lines or panty lines. Ask your plastic surgeon if all of the skin below the bellybutton can be removed during the tummy tuck and whether you will have a one, two, or three scar pattern when it is finished. I hope this is been helpful