I’m 8 weeks post op on my arm lift. I’m using Contractubex gel. Do I still use my garment? I still think my arms are big (Photo)

Question

Is this normal to be itching and feeling a bit sore on my scar?

Mehmet Surmeli, MD, FEBOPRAS · Answer

Hi, 
I think your arms look great for 8 weeks.
If your right hand is dominant than you may expect to see that your right arm is thicker-wider than your left, which is completely normal.
Excision of too much skin may result in very high pressure wound closure with the increased risks of 
Compartment syndrome and compression related vasculation and sensation problems.Deformation with constriction and disproportionally narrow armScar widening
Therefore I highly recommend conservative arm-lift (brachioplasty) and perform revisions as needed.
Best wishes,

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi Sarahmee1234.  Thank you for your question regarding the fact that you are 8 weeks post op from an  arm lift, you are using Contractubex gel, and whether you still need your arm garment.  Also, the fact that you still think my arms are big.   
Contractubex gel contains three active ingredients: Extractum cepae, Heparin sodium, and Allantoin.  These ingredients work together to soften scar tissue, reduce inflammation, and promote wound healing.  Specifically, Extractum cepae has anti-inflammatory and bactericidal properties and prevents the formation of excessive scar tissue.  Most plastic surgeons would suggest you continue to use Contractubex for about two months after an arm lift.  After that, most plastic surgeons would suggest you use a silicone-based cream and silicone strips for at least six months after your brachioplasty.  If you feel that your arms are still large, please follow up with your plastic surgeon.  Your arms are probably still swollen.  To get an accurate assessment of what exactly you need, schedule a free virtual consultation.  Most plastic surgeons offer free virtual consultations.  I hope that I have answered your question regarding the fact that you are 8 weeks post op from an arm lift, you are using Contractubex gel, and whether you still need your arm garment.

Since a brachioplasty or arm lift surgery is a difficult procedure, please seek an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon with significant experience performing these types of arm lifts.  Do your research.  Make sure your chosen plastic surgeon has performed at least 150 arm lifts.  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. (Plastic Surgeon, President of the American Society of Bariatric 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, RealSelf Hall of Fame, and RealSelf Doctor Advisory Board for Medical Review and Consumer Panel.)

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Swelling after an armlift can last up to six months or even a year.  Induration and hardness are components of the normal healing process. Silicone sheets, Mederma, and Bicorneum are reasonable and popular options for treating scars. I recommend that the scar therapy begin after the scars have healed and there are no open areas, which usually takes 4 - 6 weeks.  Contractubex and Mederma have almost identical active components, except Contractubex contains heparin.  My patients use ace bandages and they seem to work fine; compression garments can a bit tight and uncomfortable at times.  Best to follow your PS's advise.

I’m 8 weeks post op on my arm lift. I’m using Contractubex gel. Do I still use my garment? I still think my arms are big (Photo)

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