My dr didn't give me compression garments for my brachioplasty. Is that OK? And my armpits look terrifying (Photo)

Question

I had a brachioplasty a week ago. No blood or anything since day 2. I keep hearing on this site that I needed compression garments is this true? Also my armpits look scary is this Normal? They aren't bleeding or oozing

Amy Simon, MD, FACS · Answer

It is not unusual for an early postoperative healing incision to appear
to be somewhat red, possibly irritated appearing, and certainly not perfectly
smooth.  The question as to compression garments will vary depending upon
your procedure, your healing, and the preferences and recommendations of your
board-certified plastic surgeon.  I have found that my Melbourne, Florida,
brachioplasty patients benefit from the Ace wrap that I place on the arms
immediately after surgery followed by wearing compression sleeves for a few
weeks afterwards.  The timeframe recommended for this varies depending
upon the patient’s healing.  Follow up with your surgeon closely.  I
hope this information is helpful to you.  Best of luck!

Quinton Chivers, MD, FRCS(C) · Answer

Dear Sienna-Your arms actually appear to be healing quite well.These scars should settle and give you the improved contour you are looking for despite the initial heaped angry red appearing scars.Compression garments many body contouring physicians find can be cumbersome along the arms.Tensors or Ace bandages help reduce some of the swelling initially post operatively and can provide comfort for the patient however they can also lead to hand swelling and DVT of the arms.  Your surgeon may actually be right in not providing them to you despite you feeling perhaps it was an oversight.Continue to follow up with your surgeon for close monitoring of your incisions and best with your recovery.Warm Regards,Dr Quinton Chivers

Michael Hueneke, MD (retired) · Answer

Compression is optional is this procedure and it is up to your surgeon. There is no good way to get compression in the armpit regardless. I recommend compression for one week. The intersection of your incision will take some time to heal. Follow up with your surgeon ( a better resource than realself)

My dr didn't give me compression garments for my brachioplasty. Is that OK? And my armpits look terrifying (Photo)

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My dr didn't give me compression garments for my brachioplasty. Is that OK? And my armpits look terrifying (Photo)

Answers (3)

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Everything you need to know about Arm Lift

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.