Common Questions About Arm Lift Recovery
- How Can I Reduce Pain And Swelling?
As with any surgery, the surgery site will be painful and swollen after surgery. Your plastic surgeon may recommend prescription or over-the-counter pain relief for after the procedure. You will want to ensure that you get this pain medication before the procedure so you can have them ready. Beyond this, you can use a cold compress to relieve swelling and pain. Only keep the cold compress on your skin for 20 minutes before taking 10 minutes of rest and never put ice directly onto the skin. Do not apply heat, such as heating pads, to the incision site, as your skin will be sensitive to heat and it will irritate the skin rather than soothe it. To help reduce swelling, you will wear compression bandages provided by your plastic surgeon.
If you still feel some pain, itching skin, feelings of electric shocks, or skin sensitivity 6 months after your arm lift procedure, massage can help alleviate some of these symptoms. If your pain or hypersensitivity is still severe, visit a doctor.
- When Can I Start Working Out Again?
Although you’ll have to take it easy after your arm lift surgery, you should be up and walking right away. Walking around is a good mild exercise that helps to increase blood flow and leads to better surgical results. Other than walking, during the first week after surgery you be sure not to do any exercise that is too strenuous. You may feel tired after a short bout of exercise, but that is completely normal. For the first month after arm lift surgery, avoid exercise that involves lifting your arms above shoulder height or lifting anything heavy, and avoid overly strenuous activities. You can resume regular exercise about a month after your arm lift surgery but make sure to listen to your body. If your arms are hurting, don’t push yourself. If you tend to do intensive workouts or do a lot of weight lifting, you may need to wait a bit longer than a month to get back into your exercise routine and instead ease back into it.
- How Do I Care For My Incisions?
Shower before your arm lift surgery, as you will not be able to shower for approximately 48 hours after your procedure, or until your post-operative visit when drainage tubes and the original dressing are removed. After this visit when you have been approved to shower, ensure that you are not scrubbing your incision and that your water is not hot, as this may irritate the sensitive skin. You will only be permitted to shower for the month following your arm lift surgery; do not take baths or use hot tubs. Other than this, you should monitor your incisions. If you see any red, spider web-like patterns emerging on your arms, if you notice any puss development, or if your incisions feel warm and you have fever-like symptoms, visit your doctor right away. Keep your incision site protected from the sun for 12 months following your arm lift surgery for ideal healing. Leading a healthy lifestyle with diet and exercise will also help your incisions heal well and it will help keep weight stable so as to not alter the effects of your arm lift surgery. To learn even more about recovery after an arm lift, read Body Contouring: Recovery After Arm Lift Surgery.
Get Beautiful Arm Lift Results In Kelowna
If you’re ready to get an arm lift, contact Peterson MD in Kelowna. Dr. Brian Peterson offers arm lifts designed to streamline the silhouette of the arm and create flattering contours. If you are considering an arm lift, first schedule a consultation with the highly qualified, Kelowna plastic surgeon, Dr. Brian Peterson. Dr. Peterson will discuss your health and your goals for treatment and determine if you are a viable candidate for plastic surgery. Our highly experienced staff will explain the potential risks as well as your recovery process. To schedule a consultation, call Peterson MD at 1-250-868-9099 or fill out the online contact form.
FAQ
Q: How long will recovery from an arm lift body contouring procedure take?
A: Recovery will depend on your own body, but the average recovery time is between 2 and 3 weeks. It may take longer for all signs of bruising to dissipate and longer for any potential scarring to fade. During this time, make sure to keep your blood pressure low and avoid strenuous physical activity.
Q: Are there any risks associated with arm lift plastic surgery?
A: Just like with any surgery, an arm lift surgery does come with some risks. Your plastic surgeon will discuss these with you so you can make an informed decision. Some of these risks include:
- Scarring.
- Bleeding and infection.
- Anaesthesia risks.
- Numbness or other changes in skin sensation in the treatment area.
- Damage to your nerves, blood vessels, and/or muscles in the treatment area.
- Increased risk of developing blood clots.
During your consultation, ensure that you address any concerns and questions you have regarding your treatment with your plastic surgeon.
Q: Who is not a viable candidate for arm lift plastic surgery?
A: Before you are approved for plastic surgery, Dr. Peterson will conduct an exam that includes a discussion of your past and current health. You may not be eligible for body contouring if you:
- Smoke
- Are pregnant
- Are on medications that may interact with the anaesthetic
- Are considered overweight
- Have pre-existing health conditions that may interfere with recovery
Every person is different and your eligibility may be dependent on a number of factors. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Peterson to see if you are eligible for an arm lift.
