September 2015 - Donaldson Plastic Surgery

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By Jeffrey Donaldson, MD |
Liposuction Recovery

Everything You Need to Know About Recovery from Liposuction

Liposuction is an effective way to get rid of stubborn fat and to create a more shapely figure. One of the most common questions people ask about liposuction is what to expect from the recovery. Answer: it depends.

What Most Patients Can Expect

It is normal to experience swelling and bruising after liposuction. Typically, these symptoms resolve within a week or two. Patients will start to get a good sense of their new shape, and they usually return to work. The final results, however, may not be apparent for another three months to six months. It takes this long for the body to clear the inflammation, finalize the collagen patterns, and create new lymphatic and vascular channels.

How We Accurately Determine Your Approximate Liposuction Timeline

The amount of liposuction, the anatomic area and the number of areas all influence recovery time, as does each patient’s age, health status and ability to comply with post-operative instructions. Working with a board-certified plastic surgeon will help achieve the best results and enhance recovery. Wearing a good compression garment will reduce swelling and allow the skin to settle into the proper position without folding or dimpling. Resting appropriately and drinking plenty of fluids will help.

At Donaldson Plastic Surgery, we provide complete instructions for post-operative care to help patients through the recovery process. We always close each incision with precision so there is no wound care or drainage. We recommend homeopathic products that decrease bruising. We work one-on-one with each patient to help them get the best results possible, as quickly as possible, for as long as possible.


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Have Additional Questions About Liposuction Recovery?

We invite you to get in touch with us! A trusted member of our team will walk you through the procedure and answer any questions you may have about the entire liposuction process. Remember: this is your decision! We’re just here to help you ensure that it is the right one for you, your body and your personal goals.


Jeffrey Donaldson, MD Author Bio 2

About The Author

As a leading Columbus, Ohio plastic surgeon, Jeffrey Donaldson, MD has performed thousands of successful liposuction procedures throughout his 20+ year tenure. He uses his extensive training and hands-on experience to ensure an optimal recovery period that preserves aesthetic results.

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By Jeffrey Donaldson, MD |

A mommy makeover typically encompasses several operations, such as a tummy tuck, liposuction, labiaplasty, breast lift, and breast augmentation. Many patients elect to have a combination of these procedures performed at the same time to decrease cost and to enjoy a single recovery period.  This approach is usually quite safe, but it is not for every patient.  

It is critical to discuss the pros and cons with your board-certified plastic surgeon.

Factors To Consider Before Choosing Your Set Of Procedures 

Age, fitness level, smoking status, medications, previous operations and previous medical conditions are strongly considered when deciding how much surgery to perform at one time.  Many surgeons and anesthesiologists prefer not to surpass six hours of general anesthesia in an elective outpatient setting.

The estimated amount of liposuction and the scale of each individual procedure must be factored, as well.  The surgical team uses these parameters to evaluate each patient’s fluid requirements, breathing abilities and need for pain medications.

At Donaldson Plastic Surgery, our team will evaluate your pre-operative status and discuss all your options with you. A safe procedure with great results is our top priority!


About The AuthorJeffrey Donaldson, MD Author Bio

Jeffrey Donaldson, MD is Columbus, Ohio’s leading mommy makeover surgeon. He has performed thousands of successful procedures and helped countless women throughout the United States reclaim their self-confidence. He continues to help educate patients everywhere about all considerations before making a life-changing, surgical-driven decision. 

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