Post-Arm Lift (Brachioplasty)
after care

Immediately After Surgery (First 48–72 Hours)

• Moderate swelling and bruising along the inner arms are normal. They peak in the first few days and subside over 2–3 weeks. Keep your arms elevated on pillows when resting to reduce swelling.
• Sterile dressings and a snug compression garment/sleeves support healing, control swelling, and improve contour. Wear them continuously unless instructed otherwise.
• Mild to moderate discomfort, tightness, or pulling along the incision line are expected. Take prescribed pain medication as directed.
• Some patients may have small drain tubes to remove excess fluid; these are temporary and usually removed within a few days, as advised by your surgeon.
• Temporary numbness or tingling along the inner arm can occur due to skin tightening; sensation typically improves gradually as nerves recover.
• Avoid lifting your arms above shoulder level and carrying heavy objects in the first week. Gentle elbow and wrist movements are encouraged to maintain circulation.
• Bruising may extend toward the elbow or forearm; this is normal and will fade gradually.

Goal: Control swelling, protect incisions, and support early healing.

Week-by-Week Recovery Timeline

Week 1 – Early Healing & Comfort

• Rest with arms elevated on pillows; avoid raising arms above shoulder level.
• Walk indoors every 2–3 hours to reduce clot risk.
• Wear compression sleeves 22–24 hrs/day (remove only for hygiene).
• Keep incisions dry; clean gently with antiseptic solution.
• No lifting, pushing, or pulling; no driving or strenuous activity.
• Avoid saunas, steam rooms, and swimming.

Goal: Minimise swelling, protect incisions, maintain gentle mobility.

Week 2 – Visible Improvement

• Increase daily walking gradually; continue avoiding overhead arm movements.
• Do not lift more than 1–2 kg.
• Begin Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) massage 2–3×/week with a therapist if advised.
• Continue full-time compression garment use.
• Sutures may be removed if applicable; monitor for redness, warmth, or unusual discharge.

Goal: Support tissue healing and gradual return to light routine.

Weeks 3–4 – Settling & Refinement

• Resume light household activities; avoid movements that stretch incisions.
• Continue MLD; begin gentle self-massage (upward strokes) if approved.
• Start scar care with silicone gel or sheets once incisions are fully closed.
• Wear the garment most of the day; remove briefly for comfort as advised.

Goal: Improve comfort, contour, and scar quality.

Weeks 5–6 – Strength & Mobility Return

• Begin light aerobic exercise (walking, stationary bike).
• Return to desk/office work if comfortable.
• No arm weights yet.
• Continue scar massage (linear and circular) with moisturiser or silicone.
• Use sunscreen on scars if exposed; consider UPF clothing.
• Compression may be reduced to daytime only if cleared.

Goal: Restore mobility while protecting the repair.

Weeks 7–8 – Confident Routine

• Resume normal daily activities.
• Start light resistance training for lower body/core.
• Avoid heavy upper-body training until cleared by your surgeon.
• Continue scar care and silicone use.

Goal: Consolidate results and prepare for full activity once approved.

Months 3–6 – Final Refinement

• Return to gym, swimming, and upper-body workouts if cleared.
• Scars continue to mature over 6–12 months; keep using sunscreen on exposed areas.
• Sensation normalises; contour and definition stabilise.

Goal: Achieve long-lasting, natural arm contour.

Recovery & Lifestyle Tips

• Sleep & Elevation: Sleep on your back with arms supported by pillows to reduce swelling and tension on incisions.
• Incision Care: Keep incisions clean and dry. Start massage/silicone only when fully sealed and your surgeon advises.
• Activity: Short, frequent walks are encouraged; avoid strenuous activity and lifting until cleared.
• Compression: Wear garments as directed to support contour and limit swelling.
• Nutrition & Hydration: Prioritise protein, whole foods, and fluids. Avoid nicotine and limit alcohol.
• Sun Protection: Use SPF on scars if exposed; UV can darken healing scars.

When to Contact Dr. Ahmed Khazbak

Disclaimer

Disclaimer: This plan represents general recovery guidelines after arm lift (brachioplasty). Healing speed, garment duration, massage timing, and return to activity vary by individual case and surgeon preference. Always follow the personalised instructions provided by Dr. Ahmed Khazbak.