Could underarm lipo/skin removal affect arm extension during recovery?

Question

If you have lipo and excision of fat and excess skin in the armpit, can this affect your arm extension during the healing process? Would that be normal?

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question regarding whether armpit or axillary liposuction affects arm extension during recovery. Liposuction removes fat. After the fat is removed, there is swelling and eventual deposition of scar tissue. While scar tissue forms, there may be some tightness in the armpit. However, it is exceedingly rare for one to develop so much scar tissue in the armpit that the range of motion in the armpit is affected after armpit liposuction. Indeed, after 20 years of practice, I have never seen a decreased range of motion in the armpit after armpit liposuction. I suggest that after armpit liposuction, you continue wearing your garments for 6 to 8 weeks. If the range of motion is a concern, I would suggest that you constantly move your armpits after your liposuction procedure. Range of motion and movement after liposuction will decrease the creation of scar tissue.

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, and International College of Surgery, and member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery, American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery and RealSelf Hall of Fame.)

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, and International College of Surgery, and member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery, American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery and RealSelf Hall of Fame.)

Finny George, MD · Answer

Hi, thank you for sharing your question. Underarm liposuction alone will not affect arm extension but skin removal may limit the amount of extension in the immediate post op period. This will normalize over time.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear river9,
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

Garrett Jones, DO · Answer

Underarm liposuction and skin removal can affect arm extension during recovery, but the extent of impact varies depending on individual factors and the specific procedure performed. In some cases, swelling and temporary discomfort may limit arm extension initially. However, proper post-operative care, including physical therapy, can help improve arm mobility during the recovery period. It’s essential to follow your surgeon’s recommendations for a safe and successful recovery.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

Are you referring to extension of your elbow or your shoulder joint?

Either way skin excision of your armpit shouldn’t affect either very much though obviously if a lot of skin is exhaust and the incision is tight then it may be limited.  skin excision in the armpit would most likely limit shoulder abduction while you’re healing.

If you have a chosen plastic surgeon then I suggest you ask him or her. If not I suggest you have a few in person consultations with local board-certified plastic surgeons in your area.

Best,

Mats Hagstrom MD

Robert T. Buchanan, MD (retired) · Answer

Anything done around the shoulder can affect the joint. This is especially true if you do something like remove skin and have an incision in the axilla. With just liposuction you can immediately work to elevate your arm completely even though it is uncomfortable without worrying about the incision. With an incision, you have to balance not disrupting the incision with the shoulder joint capsule becoming stiff and restricting elevation. All of this is normal for the area and based on the anatomy.

Could underarm lipo/skin removal affect arm extension during recovery?

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