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

Question

A mini / short scar armlift has been recommended. There are a plethora of B+A photos of full armlifts, but only a handful of mini arm lifts. Also, I can’t find a single patient diary (pics?) that outlines the recovery process and subsequent physical therapy after a mini arm lift. I’d love a few opinions on the recovery process. How long would I have to keep my arms down? Before I could lift weight? Stretch my arms fully overhead? Etc. Can you share patient experiences? Thank you!

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

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

Harry T. Haramis, MD, FACS · Answer

In my experience, the mini arm lift with only a scar in the axilla (arm pit) has very limited indications and poor long term results.

Traditional arm lift with scar down the inside of the arm gives best results in patients with excess skin.

Usually physical therapy is not required, just cautious overhead arm movements during the first weeks.

Some patients can avoid skin excision with Vaser ultrasound liposuction of the arms. These candidates have some lax skin but as much. This usually works better than the mini arm lift.

An exam and consultation with a plastic surgeon who performs these procedures is recommended to confirm you are a candidate as well as  better discuss your options and expectations.

Matthew Zeiderman, MD · Answer

These are good questions. The recovery from a mini arm lift is similar to a full or normal arm lift. You’re gonna be out of the gym for 6 to 8 weeks and need to work compression garments for 6 to 8 weeks. Arms can go above your head at 3 to 4 weeks, depending on how your incision feels and is healing. Physical therapy is typically not needed although lymphatic massage is helpful for any patients. I hope you find this helpful.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

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.

Heather Vande Ven, DO · Answer

Recovery from a mini or short scar arm lift surgery typically involves several stages, and physical therapy can play a crucial role in optimizing outcomes. Here's a general outline of what you might expect:Initial Recovery (First Few Weeks):1. Pain Management: You'll likely experience some discomfort, swelling, and bruising immediately after surgery. Pain medication prescribed by your plastic surgeon can help manage this.2. Rest and Elevation: It's important to rest your arms and keep them elevated to reduce swelling.3. Compression Garments: Your plastic surgeon may recommend wearing compression garments to support the healing process and minimize swelling.4. Limited Movement: Initially, you'll need to avoid strenuous activities and movements that strain the arms.Weeks 2-6:1. Gradual Resumption of Activities: As you heal, you can gradually increase your activity level, but it's important to follow your plastic surgeon's instructions and avoid anything too strenuous.2. Scar Care: Your plastic surgeon will provide guidance on how to care for your incisions to promote optimal healing and minimize scarring.Physical Therapy:1. Evaluation: Your plastic surgeon will assess your range of motion, strength, and overall function.2. Customized Program: Based on your individual needs and goals, a physical therapist will design a personalized rehabilitation program.3. Range of Motion Exercises: Gentle stretching exercises will help improve flexibility and prevent stiffness.4. Strength Training: Targeted exercises will gradually build strength in the arms and shoulders.5. Scar Management: Techniques such as massage and scar mobilization may be used to promote scar remodeling and minimize adhesions.6. Education: You'll learn proper body mechanics and techniques to prevent injury and maintain your results.Long-Term Recovery (Months):1. Continued Progress: Over time, you'll gradually regain strength, flexibility, and function in your arms.2. Follow-Up Visits: Regular follow-up appointments with your plastic surgeon and physical therapist will monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments to your rehabilitation program.3. Lifestyle Modifications: Your physical therapist may provide guidance on lifestyle modifications and exercises to help maintain your results and prevent future issues.It's important to follow your plastic surgeon and physical therapist's instructions closely throughout the recovery process to optimize outcomes and minimize the risk of complications. Every individual's recovery timeline and experience may vary, so be sure to communicate openly with your healthcare providers about any concerns or questions you may have.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

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.

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