Compression after brachioplasty -no lipo - is two weeks of compression post op enough? (Photos)

Question

I am scheduled for a traditional (not extended) brachioplasty and was told I'd be wearing compression 24/7 for only two weeks afterwards. When I had my tummy tuck with lipo, I wore compression for almost 8 weeks, 24/7. Is two weeks of 24/7 compression (and then I guess nightly compression for a few more weeks) enough after a brachioplasty when there is no lipo? I am 49, 90 lbs, and 4'9" and very fit / healthy. The arm lift is to remove / tighten skin only. Thank you.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello RealSelfMember3874, Thank you for your question regarding medical compression after a brachioplasty, without lipo, and is two weeks of compression post op enough? Thank you for your history and your pictures.  First, we should analyze your pictures to determine the best procedures.  You have cutis pleonasmus (excess skin) and dermatocholosis (loose skin) without stretch marks (stria). Because of your excess skin, arm liposuction alone is not the best answer.  Therefore, you need excision of arm skin.  Usually, after any procedure, even a traditional brachioplasty, there is swelling. Typically, after most surgeries, there is swelling for approximately 6 to 8 weeks, even if liposuction is not included. Every plastic surgeon has their own recipe for arm lift surgery and postoperative care. However, most plastic surgeons continue compression after a brachioplasty for at least 6 to 8 weeks, even if arm liposuction is not included. Compression therapy minimizes edema or swelling. It also compresses and flattens the brachioplasty scar. Also, the compression garment provides physical support to the incision and allows it to heal faster. Garment also provides emotional comfort and minimizes your thoughts of the incision breaking open.  In conclusion, most plastic surgeons, utilize compression garments for at least 6 to 8 weeks after a brachioplasty. Two weeks sounds not long enough. However, follow your plastic surgeon's advice. It is very important for you to not rely on public platforms like this for medical advice. Your chosen plastic surgeon knows you best.  I’m sure your plastic surgeon has their reasons for a two week rule of compression garment after a brachioplasty.  Again, follow your plastic surgeon advice.  Good luck.  i hope that i answered your question regarding medical compression after a brachioplasty, without lipo, and is two weeks of compression post op enough? Since an arm lift can be a challenging surgery, please seek an experienced, board certified plastic surgeon with significant experience performing these types of lifts. Do your research.  Make sure they have performed at least 150 arm lift procedures.  Make sure they have the before-and-after  pictures to prove it.  Carefully examine their before-and-after  pictures and check their reviews on RealSelf.   Sincerely, Dr. Katzen, MD, MBA, FACS, FICS, FASMBS, FASBPS (Plastic Surgeon , President of  the American Society of Bariatric Plastic Surgeons, certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, Fellow of the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, American College of Surgery, International College of Surgery, and American Board of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery,  and member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery, American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery and RealSelf Hall of Fame.)

Ned Snyder, IV, MD · Answer

Thank you for submitting your questions/photo!  Two weeks of wearing compression “full time” should be adequate if lipo is not utilized.  After two weeks, you can slowly start weaning out of your garment over a period of 2-4 weeks.  By 6 weeks, you should be completely done.  Of course, you can always f/u with your surgeon at 2 weeks after surgery to get the official clearance to start weaning out.  Your surgeon will be able to tell if you need to stay in it continuously for a little longer.  Good luck and thanks again for reaching out!

Danielle S. Hayes, MD · Answer

I typically require patients to wear compression for 6 weeks to improve swelling. Only 2 weeks of compression wont cause harm, but more compression will likely lead to a faster, more comfortable recovery.

Compression after brachioplasty -no lipo - is two weeks of compression post op enough? (Photos)

Answers (3)

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