How critical is compression towards arm lift recovery?

Question

Hello - thinking of getting an arm lift. The surgeon I am leaning towards uses drains, which I am cool with b/c I think it will help reduce swelling and tension on the scar. Is compression still necessary? I had a thigh lift 4 years ago and my surgeon said he doesn't find it makes a difference in recovery. I would LOVE to not wear compression. To me it is always painful and very uncomfortable. How critical is this towards recovery?

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

I use ace bandages and they seem to work fine; compression garments can a bit tight and uncomfortable at times; follow your PS's advise.

Chet Mays, MD · Answer

Thank you for your inquiry!  We would love to meet and discuss your concerns!  Compression helps with post-operative swelling.  Compression can reduce the stretch of the skin due to swelling.  It can also decrease the risk of the incision opening up. Schedule a consultation with a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon to help you reach your goals.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello Casey,

Thank you for your question regarding the importance of wearing compression garments after your arm lift, arm reduction, Brachioplasty. In my opinion, arm compression is vital to optimal arm reduction results. Compression garments are worn for about 6-8 weeks and help to flatten the scar and minimize swelling. Everyone gets swelling after the surgery and the arm garment helps to get rid of the swelling sooner. The sooner the swelling is gone the sooner you will heal. Personally, I don't use drains on the arms. I don't find them to be useful. However, I believe arm compression garments are very important. Please seek an experienced plastic surgeon who has done hundreds of arm lifts. Thank you for your question regarding garments after an arm lift/reduction.

I specialize in arm lifts.  I hope that I have answered your questions regarding the arm reduction.  If you have any more questions regarding the arm lift, arm reduction, brachioplasty or arm crease fat grafting, please contact my office.  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 100 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. (“Verified” 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.)

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Compression is helpful to control swelling and give support to the tissues as they heal.  Each surgeon will have her/his own post operative instructions.  I encourage you to discuss your concerns with your surgeon.  It is important that you feel comfortable and confident in your recovery.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear casey1638,
I understand your concern. It is best that you consult your plastic surgeon regarding post operative care and management (i.e including massage techniques and timing) specific to your case. Your surgeon knows your condition well and has preferences on when and what to use for faster healing and recovery. Post operative care and management depends on the type of surgery performed and the technique used during surgery among other factors.It is best, however, that you follow your plastic surgeon's advice on post operative care management for a smooth and faster healing and recovery.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

How critical is compression towards arm lift recovery?

Answers (7)

Answer: Compression

Answer: Compression

Answer: Postoperative protocol

Answer: Postoperative protocol

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Everything you need to know about Arm Lift

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How critical is compression towards arm lift recovery?

Answers (7)

Answer: Compression

Answer: Compression

Answer: Postoperative protocol

Answer: Postoperative protocol

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Arm Lift

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