How Long Does Swelling Last After Brachioplasty?

Post-operative swelling on the upper arms is a natural part of the arm lift recovery process and should last no longer than six weeks. Upper arm lift surgery involves the surgeon making incisions and can include liposuction, meaning your arms will be covered in lots of small cuts that will need to heal.

However, increased swelling that persists longer may be a sign of infection, which could prove dangerous to the results of your arm lift surgery and your health. To help you recognise these signs and understand how to best take care of yourself and your upper arms during the arm lift recovery period, the experts at Cosmetic Surgery Solicitors have put together this arm lift recovery tips guide.

What is the Correct Upper Arm Surgery Recovery Process?

Following the arm lift surgery, you may need to take between one and two weeks off from work to ensure that your arms are properly rested. During this time, you should avoid strenuous activities such as exercise, heavy lifting or reaching above your head unless absolutely necessary.

You will be required to wear a compression garment along with bandages. These will support the bruising and swelling by helping to keep your arms elevated and improving blood circulation. If your surgeon recommended or provided you with post-operative pain medication, make sure to take this at the correct times and complete the course of medication provided.

When sleeping and resting in bed, lay on your back and prop yourself up with pillows to ensure your arms will stay in a comfortable position overnight. Wear comfortable, loose clothing that will not rub your sensitive skin, and maintain a good, balanced diet, including lots of fluid. Drinking water will help to keep you and your skin hydrated.
When washing, avoid baths for the duration of the healing period as soaking in water for too long can lead to damaging the newly healed skin. Instead, shower without pointing the head directly at your affected areas - let the water drain over them and make sure to clean any soap from them, otherwise, you could risk infection.

What Should I Do if I Think My Arm Lift Wounds Might be Infected?

The first thing you should do is contact your surgeon for an assessment. They will be able to inform you as to whether you have got an infection or not. If you have, you should seek medical help, either from them or another medical professional, such as your GP, if you do not feel comfortable going back to your original surgeon.

There are a number of factors that could cause your wounds to become infected. Following your arm lift surgery, your surgeon should have provided you with some post-operation instructions in line with the official recommendations. If they did, and you got an infection despite following them, it was likely due to an external factor - it is not uncommon for mistakes to happen, and these can often be rectified if combatted quickly.

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