Arm lift and compression garments: should I be wearing one to keep the swelling down? (Photo)

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.

Thank you for your questions regarding the use of medical compression garments following an arm lift, and for sharing your history and pictures.
Indeed, practices regarding arm lift surgery and postoperative care vary among plastic surgeons. While some surgeons don't advocate for the use of compression garments, most do believe in their benefits. The timing of when to apply these garments can also differ; some surgeons prefer to wait until the swelling decreases and the incisions begin to heal, but this also depends on the individual case. If you're not experiencing significant swelling, your surgeon may determine that compression garments aren't necessary for you.
It's crucial to adhere to the postoperative instructions provided by your chosen plastic surgeon. Deviating from these recommendations to follow advice from forums or other non-professional sources is generally not advised. Your surgeon is intimately familiar with the specifics of the procedure they performed on you and has a comprehensive understanding of your physical condition and healing progress. Their assessment and advice regarding wound care and the need for a compression garment are paramount.
If your plastic surgeon advises that you don't need a compression garment and you're not experiencing swelling, it's best to trust their judgment. It sounds like you're making good progress in your recovery. Wishing you continued success and a smooth healing process. Your arms are looking great.
Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Thank you for your question! I recommend following your plastic surgeon's specific recommendations and restrictions, as each surgeons' may differ. For my patients, I advise that they where specific post surgical compression sleeves for 3 weeks 24/7, then 3 weeks at night only, to help reduce swelling and maintain smooth contour. However, listening to your plastic surgeon is always the best recommendation! I hope this helps!

Thank you so much for your questions. I also do not believe compression garments help immediately after the operation. Sometimes, they're even a bit uncomfortable. They seem to help in the second week and beyond with swelling. I usually use some ace wraps immediately after the surgery. I suggest you follow your surgeon's instructions. Good luck. Dr. ALDO

I initially did use compression garments for arm lifts but over the last 5 years have used no garments for arm lifts. I found the garments rarely gave appropriate compression, rubbed and caused discomfort. I would ask your PS about the garments but I do not believe that garments are required for arm lifts.

While compression garments can help with reducing swelling,
every plastic surgeon has their own preferences for post-operative care that is
tailored to the patient’s needs. If your surgeon has elected not to use a
compression garment and everything seems to be going well in your recovery,
there is no need for a garment. It is important to follow your post-operative
care instructions to ensure the best results. We recommend scheduling a follow
up appointment with your surgeon to discuss your concerns.

Your surgeon has reasons for electing not to use compression. Most of us think the garments can be helpful in reducing swelling and, perhaps, seroma fluid collection. But the reality is that we don't know this to be true from any compelling studies, and arm wraps can sometimes just shift the swelling down to the forearms and hands, or in the worst case scenario, can be too tight and hamper blood supply or nerve sensation temporarily. I usually use some sleeves or ACE bandages for the first few days but not all surgeons use the same protocol.