Fluid retention in arms. Is this normal? What can I do to reduce the swelling?

Question

Hello, I had a brachioplasty almost 4 weeks ago. Yesterday I noticed my arms and hands are starting to puff up a little like a balloon. More so in one arm than the other. I wore a compression bandage for 3 weeks and just switched to Embrace therapy. Is this normal, and if so, what can I do to reduce the swelling? The doctor that performed the surgery is out of state. I appreciate any opinions or help. Jennavereb

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi Jeannavereb,Arm, wrist, and hand swelling is very common, even expected, after an arm reduction or brachioplasty.  After an arm lift, I have my patients wear a compression garment from the mid forearm to the armpit for 4 to 6 weeks.  The arm garment helps to minimize swelling.  The arm garment also helps to flatten that scar.  Since you continue to swell, I would suggest stopping the Embrace therapy.  I would suggest a compression garment that goes from your wrists to the armpits for at least another two weeks.  Please be sure you have a top quality compression garment. ACE bandages do not work well. Sincerely, Dr. Katzen

Jamil Ahmad, MD · Answer

Recovery after body contouring surgery takes some time, typically 6 months for most of the swelling to resolve and over a year for the scars to mature. Brachioplasty is no exception. At 1 month after brachioplasty, you are still very early in your recovery. If liposuction was used to help contour your arms, then you will typically experience even more swelling and this will also take time to resolve. Wearing a compression garment helps to control swelling. Massage of the areas also helps to get swelling out of the tissues. Be sure to communicate your concerns with your surgeon and follow the postoperative instructions.

Vivek Bansal, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Two things are keyt to minimizing the swelling, elevation and a compression garment.  Keep your hand above the level of your heart, and the swelling will begin to improve.  Elevation of the hand will be of great assistance in reducing pain as well. I hope this helps!

Stephen M. Davis, MD, FACS · Answer

It would be best if you contact your operating Plastic Surgeon. I am certain he / she will help you through this. It might require you sending photos or they may know of a local Plastic Surgeon who can evaluate you and help you get through this. Either way please pursue this. Good LuckStephen M. Davis, MD, FACSGreen Hills Plastic Surgery

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

What you are describing,  new onset significant swelling four weeks out of arm lifting surgery, is unusual.  Best to inform your plastic surgeon of what is occurring; pictures and/or in person evaluation may be necessary. Ultimately, it will be in your best interests to be evaluated personally by a board-certified plastic surgeon in your area, if you are not able to return to your plastic surgeon. Best wishes.

Fluid retention in arms. Is this normal? What can I do to reduce the swelling?

Answers (5)

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