Mini / Short scar arm lift recovery + subsequent physical therapy?

Thank you for your inquiry about the mini arm lift. Another term for the mini arm lift is the crescent arm lift. One possible reason you may not find many images of the crescent arm lift is that not many plastic surgeons perform this procedure. During a crescent arm lift, a crescent-shaped area of skin is removed from the upper third of the arm near the armpit. This procedure tightens the upper arm in that area. One advantage of the mini arm lift is that the resulting scar is concealed within the armpit. However, a drawback is that only a small amount of skin is removed.
Since the crescent arm lift is not very common, there are few patient experiences documented online. In terms of recovery, you will need to keep your arms at your sides for approximately three weeks, with your elbows positioned by your side at all times. Plastic surgeons often liken this posture during recovery to that of a T-Rex, as your elbows remain close to your body, allowing limited movement. Maintaining this position is crucial to avoid stretching the armpit area. Fortunately, drains are typically not necessary during this procedure.
The surgery itself usually takes around 2 to 3 hours under general anesthesia. After approximately three weeks, you can begin mobilizing your arms. However, it may take a good 4 to 6 weeks before you can move your arms above shoulder level comfortably. You should be able to start exercising your biceps and triceps around 3 to 4 weeks post-surgery, and by 4 to 6 weeks, you can gradually introduce exercises for your deltoids and start to adduct and abduct your arm.
I hope this information addresses your concerns about the mini arm lift and provides insight into the typical recovery process. Best of luck with your procedure.
Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

The mini arm lift is a very specific surgery for a select few patients. Most need the regular arm tuck. If you are considering the mini-lift, you might be a candidate for minimally invasive radiofrequency treatment like Renuvion instead. After an arm lift, you should be a full activities by 6 weeks. Depending upon if the axillary scar is used or not will depend upon when you can do specific activities.

These questions are best answered by your surgeon who is most familiar with your surgical plan. Typically patients are able to gradually return to normal activities within a few weeks with some lifting restrictions. You'll be back to all normal activities within a few months.