Armpits are irritated after brachioplasty

Question

Hello! I am 2 week’s post op from a brachioplasty and lower body lift. Everything seems to be healing well, except for my arm pits. Both are very irritated, and I think my right one is starting to open a bit. To me, the compression vest I am wearing is too tight. I’ve asked several times if I should get a larger size, but I am told no. I need to take a break from the CG. Is this a bad idea? And any other suggestions on how to heal the armpit area quickly?

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for questions regarding irritated armpits after your arm lift or brachioplasty. Swelling after a brachioplasty is expected. It is very important that you wear your compression garment to minimize swelling, to protect the incision, and to help flatten the arm scar. Having only one picture and not a physical examination, it is impossible to tell if you need a larger arm garment. However, I would probably agree with your plastic surgeon that you do not need a larger garment. You need to continue to wear your present arm compression garment. I would not suggest you take a break from your compression garment. If you do so, this will only lead to more arm swelling. Thank you for your question regarding irritated armpits after your brachioplasty. If you have any more questions regarding post-operative care after an arm lift or brachioplasty, please contact my office. If you are looking for an arm lift or arm lift revision, please seek an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon who has performed hundreds of arm lifts. Travel out-of-state if you need to seek such an arm lift expert. I hope that I've answered your questions regarding post-operative care after an arm lift. 
Sincerely, Dr, Katzen.

Harry T. Haramis, MD, FACS · Answer

Compression is important but it should never cause pain or irritation. Sometimes you can open the upper portion so it doesn't rub, etc.Check with your plastic surgeon for better options.

Tania Medina de Garcia, MD · Answer

Hello dear!!
Thanks for the question and provided information as well. 
Without pictures it is hard to give you a recommendation. Remember that you are still early on healing process, and that it depends on each patient, most of the time is between 6 months and one year to see the final results. 
I suggest you to make an appointment with a board plastic surgeon for a good evaluation and to talk about your goals.
Good luck :)

Gary L. Ross, MBChB, FRCS · Answer

If your garment is irritating the wounds then often I personally feel it is better to remove the garment of change the garment. Before doing that you need to be examined to check how the garment is positioned and to check the scars. See your PS in person for advice.

Sharline Z. Aboutanos, MD · Answer

If the compression garment is rubbing on your suture lines, you may want to ask your surgeon if it is OK to pad that area with gauze so that it does not rub open the incisions. This irritation should improve over time as things continue to heal. Good luck in your recovery.

Armpits are irritated after brachioplasty

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Armpits are irritated after brachioplasty

Answers (7)

Answer: Arm pits

Answer: Arm pits

Answer: Irritation after brachioplasty

Answer: Irritation after brachioplasty

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Everything you need to know about Arm Lift

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