Swelling in inner elbows after brachioplasty.

Question

I had bracioplasty 7 weeks ago & still have swelling & discomfort in inner elbows. Doctor says its fluid retention & could take up to 6 months for complete healing. Iceing dies not help. Is there anything I can do to speed up the healing?

Aldo Guerra, MD · Answer

Swelling after arm lift can be frustrating. I have recommended wearing a compression garment that drops down all the way to the wrist, similar to those used for after breast reconstruction with lymphedema. Lymphatic massaging might also help.

Speak with your plastic surgeon about these options.

Warmest regards, Dr. ALDO

Speak with your plastic surgeon about these options.

Warmest regards, Dr. ALDO

Gerald Minniti, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello,You would need to be evaluated to ensure you don't have seromas.  If not, then firm compression using specially made compression sleeves will help.Best of luck!

Alicia Sigler, MD · Answer

Greetings,

The recovery for an arm lift (brachioplasty) is different for each patient. It is about 4-6 weeks before patients feel 100% “normal” again, it depends on the evolution of the healing and cares taken. Maintain close communication with your surgeon and make sure to follow his/her recovery instructions.

Thanks for put your trust on us.

Have a great day!

Michael Hueneke, MD (retired) · Answer

I find that the swelling subsides in 3-4 months in most cases. There is no magic remedy to speed this process up.

Swelling in inner elbows after brachioplasty.

Answers (4)