How to keep arms elevated after brachioplasty?

Question

Everyone says to keep your arms elevated above your heart after arm lift surgery. To do that my arms have to be around two feet in the air. Are there any recommendations for products (like foam blocks or something) that I can get? Thanks!

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for seeking advice on arm elevation following a brachioplasty. Elevating the arms is crucial after such a procedure to minimize potential swelling, also known as edema. This swelling arises as your body's natural healing mechanism post-surgery, wherein the body directs increased blood flow to the surgical site. Elevated blood flow can manifest as visible swelling. To effectively reduce this, elevating your arms above heart level is beneficial. Your hands don't need to be pointed directly upwards, but maintaining a slight elevation can aid in decreasing edema. Using one or two pillows on each side of your body while resting can serve this purpose effectively. Ensuring both your elbows and wrists are straight will further enhance fluid drainage from your arms.
Sincerely, Dr. Katzen

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

I usually ask patients to lay supine, with their arms elevated above the level of the heart as much as possible. Resting the elbows and wrists on 2 pillows usually does the job nicely. Best wishes.

Jeanette Padgett, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for posting your question.  To elevate your arms,  use multiple pillows along your sides to provide a soft tower of pillows to place your arms on comfortably.

Frederick G. Weniger, MD, FACS, MBA · Answer

Thank you for your question.  After a brachioplasty most patients keep their arms propped up on a stack of pillows.

Marissa Tenenbaum, MD · Answer

Sometimes a few pillows under your armpit area and extending to your elbow can help keep your arms above the level of the heart and still be comfortable. Best, MMT

How to keep arms elevated after brachioplasty?

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