I have lumps and bulge after Arm Lift. Is this normal? (photos)

Question

I had arm lift June 23. My results R fairly satisfying but I have 3 concerns & I'd like independent advice 1. I have raised little lump of skin. I can't imagine this smoothening out. ? 2. Other arm, 1 area is like a bulge, and under skin I feel fat ..it feels to me like an 'under correction" My dr..said, maybe he ''didn't take enough skin/or enuf lipo. .. wants me to wait until Dec. no discussion yet, but would I be resposible for $$ ??? I hope not ! 3. can stitches be pulled too tight? thx

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question regarding lumps and bulges after an arm lift. Thank you for your history and your picture. Your results are expected; these scars will flatten out. You must wear your compression garment for at least 6-8 weeks. I would also suggest applying silicone gel sheeting to the area to accelerate the healing.
Regarding payment for revision, I would consult with your chosen plastic surgeon. Every plastic surgeon is different. Sutures can be pulled too tightly. But this is not what is occurring in your case. In your case, it appears that the incisions are healing well. They need time. Therefore, I suggest you continue wearing your compression garment for at least two to three more weeks. You should wear your compression garments for at least 6-8 weeks. I hope this helps to answer your question regarding lumps and bulges after an arm lift.

Richard J. Bruneteau, MD · Answer

Unfortunately, gathering of the wound margins can sometimes occur when patients have large amounts of skin removed during brachioplasty. This bunching occurs when surgeons intentionally avoid extending the incision beyond the axilla and elbow to avoid secondary complications. This type of problem is unrelated to the tightness of the suture closure.Although these scars can be very noticeable in the immediate post-operative period, they tend to improve with the passage of time. It's important to understand that wound healing is a dynamic process that continues for over 12 to 18 months following surgery. During this time, wounds remodel and scars soften and lose their redness.This process can be facilitated with a variety of maneuvers designed to avoid tension on the wound closure. Examples include steristrips, silicone sheeting and compression garments. Massage with a variety of topical agents has been shown to be helpful as well. Rarely, if these steps are unsuccessful, secondary scar revision may be necessary.When secondary cosmetic procedures are indicated, financial arrangements can vary depending upon a variety of factors. If this situation arises, it's important that you have a direct conversation with your surgeon regarding this topic. Your surgeon should be able to address your concerns and alleviate your anxiety.

Paul W. Papillion, MD · Answer

Wound irregularities: Most of time all of these areas settle out. I recommend getting a roll of 1/4inch "paper tape". Apply the paper tape over the wounds and leave it in place changing it every couple of days. The paper tape helps with the smoothing out process. I would try to use the paper tape for at least 6 weeks. (There are several research papers on the use of paper tape in treating scars) ...if this sound a bit strange.$$$: Every doctor is different about the revision policies. Only he or she will be able to answer that one.Tight stitches. Stitches can be pulled to tight, and in some cases, can cut off the blood supply to the tissue causing wound problems. That rarely happens to a well trained plastic surgeon, but it can. Hope those answers help.Paul

Earl Stephenson, Jr., MD, DDS, MBA · Answer

Thank you for the pictures. This looks like typical closure for body contouring procedures as his arm lift. The skin will settle out this move down over time. It will take months. Revision policies differ from office office you just have to discuss this at the appropriate time with your surgeon. Good luck

Germán Newall, MD · Answer

Hey there,Great question! Yes, this is perfectly normal. You are still in the healing process, but I recommend that you do minimal activity for at least two weeks to aid in the healing process. Best wishes, Dr. Newall

I have lumps and bulge after Arm Lift. Is this normal? (photos)

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I have lumps and bulge after Arm Lift. Is this normal? (photos)

Answers (7)

Answer: Arm lift

Answer: Arm lift

Answer: Lumps and bulge after arm lift

Answer: Lumps and bulge after arm lift

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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.