What can I do to improve scar after arm lift surgery? (Photo)

Question

I'm 33 and had an arm lift done for my wedding in October. I was told that I wouldn't see the scars unless I lifted my arms up. My wedding dress is strapless because I got it before my surgery. I'm doing laser treatments now and it is helping a little. I'm considering doing a scar revision next year because I'm so unhappy with it. Do you think this will help move the scar over to be less visible (underneath my arm) Any advice... I'm desperate!:(

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi Lauren,I'm sorry you are unhappy with your arm lift or brachioplasty results.  Scar positioning is key during an arm lift surgery. Typically, this arm lift incision is placed between the biceps and the triceps.  If there is a  dog ears at the end of the incision at the elbow, incision is tapered around, but not beyond the elbow. If there is a dog ear in the armpit, the incision is tapered down the side of the chest.Postoperative scar management is essential for optimal arm lift or brachioplasty results. After their arm lift surgery, I have my patients wear arm compression garments for six or more weeks. This helps to minimize swelling, accelerate wound healing, and flatten the arm lift scar.  I also advise application of Biocorneum silicone scar cream as well as application of silicone strips for 6 to 8 months.In your particular case, I would advise continuing with laser treatment. For the first two months, I would use the V-beam laser. Two months after the arm lift surgery,  I would suggest using an Erbium YAG laser for scar resurfacing.  This may take four or five sessions to optimize the scar.  I would also steroid injection into the hypertrophic areas of the arm lift scar.  Another option, might be using a Derma pen. The Derma Pen may help to stimulate collagen breakdown and creation of a better arm lift scar.  If the scar has not significantly improved one year after your brachioplasty surgery, then I would suggest arm lift scar revision.  I hope this answers your question regarding arm lift or brachioplasty scar revision treatment options.Sincerely, Dr. Katzen

Larry S. Nichter, MD, MS, FACS · Answer

#BestScarManagement is important to minimize or completely hide from view, the telltale signs of your surgery—namely, scars. Both you and your surgeon want you to have the most minimal scarring possible. There are many possible causes for scars that are enlarged or not healing well. Unsightly scars are most commonly due to genetics, underlying medical conditions, or improper scar/wound care. The last part is very important and patients can make a noticeable difference in their scars’ appearance by following best scar management practices. Here are some simple tips found in the below link that you should consider.

John J. O'Brien, MD · Answer

Hello, and thank you for your question. It sounds like your finding some success with laser treatments. Depending upon your skin laxity you may be able to have a scar revision all procedure to try to tuck the scar to a more desirable position. I would recommend you discussed this with your treating surgeon. Best of luck.

Alejandro L. Gaxiola, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hi Lauren, the laser treatment is a good option for scars, it takes several times to notice the difference,  to have a revision of the scar is important to check the elasticity of your skin to see if it can be moved.

What can I do to improve scar after arm lift surgery? (Photo)

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What can I do to improve scar after arm lift surgery? (Photo)

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Answer: Arm lift scars

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