Raising arms above head after Brachioplasty/Arm Lift

Question

Hello, after an extended arm lift, how long into recovery is it typically recommended/safe to be raising hands above one's head? When is it OK to start stretching arms again?

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your inquiry about raising your arms after undergoing a brachioplasty, commonly known as an arm lift. It's essential to emphasize the importance of adhering to your plastic surgeon's personalized post-operative guidelines, as these are tailored to your specific needs and healing progress.
That said, general timelines after a longitudinal brachioplasty (incision from the armpit to the elbow) are as follows:
2 weeks post-op: You may be able to raise your arms up to 45° from your side.
4 weeks post-op: Typically, you can lift your arms to about 90° or shoulder level.
6 to 8 weeks post-op: Most patients can reach the point where they can comfortably position their elbow behind their head.
Keep in mind that these are general guidelines and individual recovery times can differ. Always consult and adhere to the advice provided by your plastic surgeon.
Best wishes for a smooth recovery and optimal results.
Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Bryan Armijo, MD · Answer

After an arm lift, it is important to follow your surgeon’s recommendations for activity restrictions and for when to raise your arms above your head. I typically recommend not raising your arms for 2 weeks. By following your surgeon’s postoperative instructions, you will be doing all that you can to ensure a smooth healing process.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Do not raise arms above head or bend for 4-6 weeks. Do not extend your arms overhead and do not reach for items as this can put tension on the incisions and cause them to open. This can lead to delayed wound healing and a need for revision.

Hagen Schumacher, PhD, FRCS(Plast), FEBOPRAS · Answer

Hello,
Thank you for your enquiry. Two weeks after surgery, it is acceptable in my view to gradually build up a full range of motion again. This includes raising your hands above your head. Check with your surgeon if they are happy with that.

Stanley Okoro, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Remember to always ask your performing surgeon these questions during your post operative evaluations. Many patients are able to lift their arms at 1 month post op, at that time we recommend arm skin stretching to increase range of motion. This is of course if the patient does not have any wound healing issues. Good luck in your recovery

James Knoetgen, III, MD · Answer

Great question! After a brachioplasty (arm lift)—especially an extended arm lift, which involves a longer incision and more tissue removal—it’s really important to follow post-op guidelines carefully to avoid complications like wound separation, swelling, or scar widening.
Raising Arms Above Head
Most surgeons recommend limiting arm elevation above shoulder level for the first 2 to 4 weeks after surgery. This allows the incisions to heal and reduces strain on the sutures.
•	Weeks 1–2: Keep arms at your sides or in a bent “T-Rex” position. No lifting, reaching, or raising above shoulders.
•	Week 3–4: Some light reaching and arm use may be allowed, but not fully overhead yet. Always check with your surgeon.
•	Week 5–6 and beyond: If healing is going well, most patients are cleared to start raising arms overhead and gentle stretching. Full overhead motion typically resumes around 6 weeks post-op.
Stretching Arms Again:
•	Gentle range of motion exercises usually begin around 4–6 weeks, depending on your healing and surgeon's protocol.
•	Full stretching or resistance training is often delayed until around 8–10 weeks, or once you're fully cleared.
Always confirm with your plastic surgeon, as protocols may vary slightly based on their technique, your healing, and your individual case. If you’re feeling tightness, tingling, or pain when attempting to raise your arms, that’s a signal to ease back and allow more time.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

You should be able to raise your arms above your head 4-6 weeks after surgery.  This will be dependent upon how you are progressing through recovery, so it is always best to check with your surgeon.  She/He is most familiar with the details of your surgery and will clear you for various activities based on your progress.

Raising arms above head after Brachioplasty/Arm Lift

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