Hi Sienna789, Thank you for your question regarding the fact that your doctor didn't give you compression garments for your brachioplasty and whether you need arm garments after a brachioplasty. Thank you for your history and your pictures. Your pictures look like you will achieve an excellent arm lift result. Your brachioplasty incisions appear to be healing very well. Every plastic surgeon has their own surgical technique and individualized post-operative treatment for each procedure, including arm reduction. Some plastic surgeons use medical-grade arm compression sleeves or vests. Some plastic surgeons use ACE bandages. Some plastic surgeons do not use compression garments or ACE bandages. Arm compression is used to reduce edema (swelling), decrease tension on the incision line, provide physical support, and compression on the scar. However, compression garments do have their drawbacks. If your arm compression garment is too tight, it can decrease blood flow (circulation), leading to decreased oxygen delivery and, consequently, poor healing. Additionally, if your arm garments are too tight, they can block your lymphatic circulation and prevent lymphatic channels from draining, thereby increasing (not decreasing) swelling. Also, if your arm garments are too tight, they can dig into the incisions and cause wound openings. Generally, most experienced arm lift surgeons begin using arm compression two to three weeks after the arm reduction. Usually, arm lift compression garments are worn for six to eight weeks to minimize swelling and help flatten the brachioplasty scar. However, follow your plastic surgeon's recommendations. Your plastic surgeon performed your brachioplasty and knows how to evaluate your arm wounds. Your plastic surgeon should be the person who knows best regarding when you need to wear an arm lift garment. It is plausible that with the technique your plastic surgeon uses to perform a brachioplasty, arm garments may not be necessary. I hope that I have answered your questions regarding the arm reduction. If you have any further questions regarding arm lift, arm reduction, brachioplasty, or arm crease fat grafting, please contact an experienced plastic surgeon.
