Partridge Plastic Surgery FAQs
Choosing the right New Jersey plastic surgeon starts with having clear, trustworthy information. Here, Dr. Joanna Partridge addresses the most important questions patients ask about her expertise, your safety, procedure options, and what to expect at every step of the journey.
About Dr. Partridge and Our Practice
Is Dr. Joanna Partridge board-certified in plastic surgery?
Dr. Joanna Partridge is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS), the only board recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) for plastic surgery of the face and body. This certification confirms that she has completed rigorous training, passed extensive examinations, and continues to meet the highest safety and ethical standards in the specialty.
What makes Dr. Partridge different from other plastic surgeons in New Jersey?
Patients choose Dr. Partridge for her combination of technical excellence, artistic detail, and compassionate, patient-first care. As a female plastic surgeon, she deeply understands how body image and confidence affect daily life and tailors every procedure to each patient’s priorities. Her natural, elegant aesthetic sense and thorough surgical techniques have earned her the trust of individuals across Princeton, North Brunswick, and the surrounding NJ communities.
Does Dr. Partridge specialize in any particular cosmetic or reconstructive procedures?
Dr. Partridge specializes in breast enhancement, body contouring, abdominoplasty, mommy makeovers, liposuction, and advanced reconstructive procedures. She also performs facial rejuvenation procedures and offers a range of non-surgical treatments. Her focus is on delivering natural, balanced, long-lasting results that align with your anatomy and goals.
Is Partridge Plastic Surgery an accredited facility, and what safety standards do you follow?
Surgeries are performed in fully accredited surgical facilities that meet or exceed national standards for safety, sterilization, anesthesia, and emergency protocols. Dr. Partridge operates only in centers staffed by board-certified anesthesiologists and experienced surgical nurses, ensuring that every patient receives safe, high-quality care.
How does Dr. Partridge evaluate whether I’m a good candidate for surgery?
During your consultation at her offices in Princeton or North Brunswick, NJ, Dr. Partridge will review your medical history, examine your anatomy, discuss your goals, and evaluate your overall health and lifestyle. She will ensure you have realistic expectations, a safe surgical profile, and the emotional readiness needed for a positive experience. Her candid approach ensures you pursue only what is genuinely right for you.
Consultations & Treatment Planning
Do you offer virtual consultations?
Virtual consultations are available for patients throughout New Jersey and neighboring states. They are ideal for busy schedules, early-stage planning, or out-of-town patients. You will receive the same personalized assessment and opportunity to ask questions as you would in person.
Do you accommodate out-of-town patients traveling to New Jersey for surgery?
Partridge Plastic Surgery proudly welcomes patients from across the country and around the world. Dr. Partridge has developed a streamlined, patient-centered process to ensure that traveling for surgery is as convenient, safe, and stress-free as possible. We offer virtual consultations so you can meet Dr. Partridge, review your goals, and determine candidacy from the comfort of home. Once your procedure is booked, our team provides personalized guidance on travel timelines, hotel recommendations, and how long you should plan to stay in New Jersey after surgery - typically several days to one week, depending on the procedure. We also help coordinate post-operative follow-up, including virtual check-ins when appropriate, to ensure continuity of care no matter where you live.
What should I expect during my initial consultation with Dr. Partridge?
Your consultation is a comfortable, collaborative conversation. Dr. Partridge takes time to understand what bothers you, explains your options, and reviews what results look like for bodies similar to yours. You’ll also learn about the procedure steps, expected recovery, costs, and customized treatment recommendations. Patients describe the experience as thorough, reassuring, and educational.
Can I bring photos or request a specific aesthetic look?
Reference photos can help Dr. Partridge understand your preferred aesthetic - whether it’s subtle, dramatic, lifted, or contoured. She will explain what is achievable for your anatomy and work with you to create a result that feels authentic, balanced, and natural.
How far in advance should I schedule my surgery?
Most patients schedule surgery 4-8 weeks in advance, though popular seasons such as spring and fall may book earlier. If you’re planning surgery around events (weddings, vacations, summer), scheduling several months ahead ensures the timing aligns with your lifestyle and recovery needs.
Planning Your Procedure
Do I need to lose weight before having cosmetic surgery?
For many procedures, it’s ideal to be at a stable, sustainable weight that you can maintain long-term. Weight loss is not required for every patient, but reaching a healthy range may improve both safety and aesthetic outcomes. Dr. Partridge will guide you honestly during your consultation visit at her offices in Princeton or North Brunswick, NJ.
How do I know whether I need liposuction, a tummy tuck, or both?
The appropriate procedure choice depends on your anatomy.
- Liposuction removes pockets of fat but does not tighten skin.
- A tummy tuck removes loose skin and tightens stretched abdominal muscles.
Some patients benefit greatly from combining the two, especially after pregnancy or weight changes. Dr. Partridge evaluates your skin elasticity, fat distribution, and muscle tone to recommend the right approach.
Can I combine multiple procedures during one surgery?
Combining procedures is common and may reduce total recovery time, exposure to anesthesia, and total costs. Popular combinations include mommy makeovers, tummy tuck + liposuction, breast lift + augmentation, and facial rejuvenation pairings. You will receive a personalized assessment to ensure a safe surgical plan.
Does Dr. Partridge perform revision or corrective surgeries from other surgeons?
Dr. Partridge frequently performs revision procedures to correct previous surgical results, asymmetries, capsular contracture, contour irregularities, and other concerns. She approaches each case with honesty and precision to achieve the safest and most natural improvement possible.
On the Day of Surgery
Where will my surgery take place - Princeton or North Brunswick?
Surgical procedures are performed in fully accredited operating facilities associated with Partridge Plastic Surgery in Princeton or North Brunswick, depending on your needs and scheduling availability. Both locations offer the same high standards of safety and comfort
What type of anesthesia is used, and who administers it?
Most cosmetic surgeries use general anesthesia or, in some cases, IV sedation. All anesthesia is administered by a board-certified anesthesiologist, ensuring continuous monitoring and a safe, controlled surgical experience.
How long do most cosmetic procedures take?
Procedure time varies based on complexity, but most surgeries take 1 to 6 hours. Combined procedures, like mommy makeovers, fall on the longer end, while smaller treatments may be shorter. Dr. Partridge will give you an accurate timeframe during your consultation visit at her New Jersey offices in Princeton or North Brunswick.
Recovery & Aftercare
What does recovery look like after plastic surgery?
Recovery depends on the procedure, but you may expect a combination of swelling, bruising, and mild to moderate discomfort that gradually improves. You’ll receive detailed aftercare instructions, including how to sleep, move, care for incisions, and return to activities. Most patients are up and walking the same day and feel significantly better within 1-2 weeks.
How much time should I take off work after my procedure?
Recovery time varies, but many patients take:
- 1 week for breast procedures or liposuction
- 2 weeks for tummy tucks or mommy makeovers
- Several days to 1 week for facial procedures
Dr. Partridge will provide a personalized timeline based on your occupation and procedure.
What support does the practice provide during recovery?
You will receive continuous access to the care team, detailed instructions, follow-up appointments, and guidance at every stage. Patients describe the support as “reassuring,” “responsive,” and “above and beyond.” Dr. Partridge’s team is readily available for questions, concerns, or check-ins throughout your healing process.
What signs of complications should I watch for?
Although complications are rare, you should contact our office immediately if you experience symptoms such as severe pain, sudden swelling, fever, redness at incision sites, or unusual drainage. You will receive clear guidelines on what to expect and when to call.
Results & Expectations
What should I expect during recovery after a surgical or non-surgical procedure at Partridge Plastic Surgery?
Recovery looks different depending on the treatment you receive. After a surgical procedure, most patients experience temporary swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort during the first several days. Dr. Partridge provides detailed aftercare instructions tailored to your procedure, including activity restrictions, incision care, guidance on returning to work, and follow-up appointments to monitor your healing. Our team is available at every stage to answer questions and help you navigate the healing process confidently.
Non-surgical recovery is typically minimal. Most patients may return to daily activities immediately or within hours. You may experience mild redness, swelling, or sensitivity depending on the specific treatment, but these effects are short-lived. Before you leave, we walk you through exactly what to expect, how to care for your skin or treated area, and when you’ll see results.
Will I have visible scars, and how does Dr. Partridge minimize them?
All surgeries leave scars, but Dr. Partridge is known for precise incision placement and refined closing techniques that result in thin, discreet lines hidden within natural creases or under clothing. She also provides guidance on scar care, silicone treatments, and other methods to help scars fade beautifully over time.
What can I do to maintain my results long-term?
To maintain your outcome, Dr. Partridge recommends:
- Wearing supportive bras (for breast procedures)
- Attending follow-up appointments as recommended
- Maintaining a stable weight
- Protecting your skin from sun exposure
- Following a healthy diet
- Exercising regularly
Her team will help you build a personalized plan to support your long-term results.