Plastic surgery can help enhance or correct a variety of physical features. The procedures people want are often dictated by their age. Younger people often want to change or augment features, while older people seek to fight the aging process.

Teenagers Before Eighteen

Teens are still growing, and they do not enjoy the full decision-making privileges of adults, so most procedures are not appropriate in this time. Possible procedures in this age group, with the permission of their parents or guardians, include otoplasty, rhinoplasty, breast reduction and gynecomastia excision.

Eighteen Through The Twenties

Young adults can take control of their physical appearance. Women in this age group typically seek breast augmentation, while many men choose gynecomastia excision.

The Thirties

At age 30, a person’s metabolism typically starts to slow down. When this occurs, people may experience small changes in their appearance that make them unhappy. Liposuction and sculpting procedures are common types of plastic surgery that appeal to patients in this age group.  Also, young mothers see changes related to pregnancy and may seek out mommy makeover.

The Forties

The forties bring more visible signs of aging. This is the time when patients request minimally-invasive procedures such as Botox, Juvederm, and medical-grade skincare.  Mothers are often very interested in  tummy tucks, cellulite reduction, and breast lifts.

The Fifties and Sixties

Facelift, eye or brow lift procedures become popular in this age group. Neck lifts and laser resurfacing are other common choices for plastic surgery. Some patients elect a combination of surgical procedures that provide more comprehensive rejuvenation.

Every October for the past five years, Donaldson Plastic Surgery has conducted the Likes for Lives Campaign. This event coincides with breast cancer awareness month, and raises money for research and treatment.

During this annual effort, the DPS Cares Fund of The Columbus Foundation donates one dollar for every “like” the Donaldson Plastic Surgery’s Facebook fan page receives. So far, the 500-likes-in-one-month goal has been achieved and surpassed each time — including, most recently 1,146 likes in 2015!  This brings the total amount raised across all five campaigns to nearly $5000.

The OhioHealth Bing Cancer Center is this year’s grant recipient.  The “Bing” as it is affectionately known, is located on Riverside Methodist Hospital’s campus and focused on delivering care and support to both cancer survivors and their families. The center takes a holistic approach to treating cancer by using therapy, imaging, testing, and nutrition all in conjunction to maximize patient health.  The Center was named after Dr. Arthur Bing — a local developer, philanthropist and retired plastic surgeon.

Donaldson Plastic Surgery is excited to now offer CoolSculpting, a non-surgical procedure that can help you get rid of unwanted pockets of fat. Love handles, tummy, bra folds, chin, arms and thighs are all fair game.  If you are not interested in undergoing surgery but hate the fat, CoolSculpting might be the best solution for you.

There are no incisions — this procedure works by freezing fat cells in the treatment area with a specialized applicator. The cells collapse over time, and then are naturally eliminated by the body. The treatment takes approximately one hour per area, and patients typically read, watch TV or conduct business while they undergo the procedure!

In the first few days after surgery the overlying skin may be red or numb, and mild swelling is common.  These symptoms are alleviated with compression garments, like Spanx, hot and cold packs and over-the-counter medications. There are no limitations on post-treatment activities.

Coolsculpting has been shown to remove 20%-25% of fat cells in the treatment area, so after two treatments, many patients notice almost a 50% reduction of fat in the area.
CoolSculpting results may not be as dramatic as liposuction or contouring surgery, but it is a safe and effective technique for those who want to avoid scars and downtime.

About The Author

Nikki Rucinsky is a certified CoolSculpting expert at Donaldson Plastic Surgery. As an experienced medical aesthetician, she has helped hundreds of patients feel like the best version of themselves through the use of non-surgical and medspa-related treatments, including clinical-grade chemical peels and facials. She strives to educate individuals everywhere about the details of CoolSculpting technology before they make the decision to move forward themselves.

A Closer Look At How Dr. Donaldson Minimzies Risk Through Advanced Surgical Techniques 

When considering a surgical procedure, it’s important to research surgeons, techniques, benefits and risks. While technical advances have made routine cosmetic operations such as a thigh lift very safe, all surgery carries some risk of complication.

What Are The Benefits Of A Thigh Lift?

A thigh lift removes excess fat and sagging skin along the inner thighs. Often part of a body contouring plan after pregnancy or weight loss, thigh lifts carry several common risks. Bleeding and infection are certainly possible with any operation.  Because thigh lift incisions are generally hidden in the groin creases or along the inner thighs, there is a tendency for friction and chafing to irritate the incisions and compromise healing.

Swelling Is Natural – But Should Still Be Closely Monitored 

There are many lymphatics underlying the thigh lift area which carry fluids and tissue byproducts away from the legs.  When these lymphatics are disrupted during surgery, swelling and edema in the legs may occur.  Usually, this phenomenon is temporary and alleviated by rest, elevation and compression; however, more severe disruption can occur that would require lymphatic massage and medical management.

The Surgeon & Patient Must Work Together For Optimal Results 

Leg motion causes tension on incisions, and over-activity in the early post-operative phase may widen the scar. The proximity to the genital area and perineum makes healing especially sensitive – the surgeon must perform each step correctly to avoid distortion of surrounding tissue, and the patient must diligently clean and monitor the wounds.

It is important to consider post-surgical complications before choosing a cosmetic procedure, but simple measures such as researching surgeon accreditation and experience, following post-op instructions, and maintaining a clean healing environment will help to avoid problems and ensure a beautiful result.

About The Author

Jeffrey Donaldson, MD has more than 20 years of experience working with patients directly to create incredible Thigh Lift results. He has dedicated much of his time to educating patients throughout the United States about the benefits, risks and expected outcomes of this surgical procedure.