Plastic surgery: Expectations and Outcomes

Many clients express being surprised at how difficult the recovery is from procedures like tummy tucks and liposuction. To be clear, these procedures should be carefully researched and prepared for before ever going for your procedure. Healthy sources of protein, fruits and veggies, while avoiding salt and processed foods is an important part of preparing for and recovery from surgery of any kind. Staying well hydrated is also of paramount importance, so that the lymph fluid can move through the body and be excreted in the urine. Sleep, resting at home and manual lymphatic drainage are equally important for recovery. For best results, most clients will be treated for at least 6-8 weeks, coming at least twice weekly in the beginning and scaling back as swelling becomes minimal, and depending on how much fibrosis (tissue that has hardened due to stagnant lymph and protein buildup) accumulates. Session length depends on how much of the body has undergone surgery.

Plastic surgery of any kind is traumatic for the body, and disrupts the lymphatic system’s ability to remove fluids and waste from the traumatized areas.

That is where Lehigh Valley Lymphatics comes in.

Lehigh Valley Lymphatics holds an MLD-C certification from the Academy of Lymphatic Studies and is trained in the Vodder technique. That’s the same institution that trains lymphatic therapists in hospitals and cancer centers across North America. Specialized training in plastic surgery recovery massage is also part of the credential set, with advanced post-surgical protocols through ACOLS currently in progress.

Your recovery matters.

You have made a big commitment by choosing to have surgery, but your commitment to your new and improved self should not stop there. Omitting recovery treatments can result in less than satisfactory final results, such as lumps and bumps. Not sure what to choose when planning your recovery services at Lehigh Valley Lymphatics?

  • Tummy Tuck in the front only (with no Lipo on sides or back) - 30-minute sessions (buy a Series of 5 to start)

  • Tummy Tuck with Lipo of waist - 45-minute sessions (buy a Series of 5 or 8)

  • Tummy Tuck with Lipo of waist, sides and back and Tummy Tuck 360 - 60-minute sessions (buy a Series of 5 or 8 to start)

  • Panniculectomy, Fleur-de-Lis (no Lipo) - 45-minute sessions (buy a Series of 5 or 8)

  • Liposuction of abdominal area and waist (no back) - 45-min sessions (buy a Series of 5) and 60-min sessions when myofascial and cupping work is added

  • Lipo 360 - 60-min sessions (buy a Series of 5 or 8 to start)

  • Lipo or Skin Removal of Arms - 30-minute sessions to start (buy a Series of 5) and 45-minute sessions if fibrosis forms