Your arm lift surgery is an outpatient procedure, meaning you can return home the same day after the procedure. When performed under IV sedation, you should be prepared to have an escort to bring you home, as you will not be able to drive for 24 hours after the administration of anesthesia. After undergoing the surgery, you will recover in Dr. Antell’s state-of-the-art recovery suite while being monitored by one of his nurses until you feel well enough to be discharged. Upon leaving the facility, you will be provided with thorough discharge instructions that will guide you through the initial postoperative period. Throughout your recovery, Dr. Antell and his staff will be available to answer any questions you may have.
Your first follow-up appointment will typically be scheduled for the day after surgery so that Dr. Antell can observe the healing process. Patients can usually return to most daily activities within days after the procedure but are asked to avoid vigorous exercise for about 10-14 days. The incision sites will typically be covered with a sterile dressing that will remain in place for 1 to 7 days. Some dissolvable stitches may be used, while external sutures are usually removed 10-14 days after the procedure.
You can sponge bathe immediately and usually take a shower 48 hours after your procedure. If deemed necessary, you may be prescribed antibiotics to help prevent infection. If so, please be sure that you take the entire course as directed. After the procedure, your arms will likely be swollen and bruised, and you may feel a burning sensation. While most of the swelling and bruising will be gone within six to eight weeks after surgery, some residual swelling can remain for six months or more.
With regard to scarring, the incisions for an arm lift are strategically placed along the inner arm, from the underarm area to the elbow, to be as hidden from view as possible. Arm lift scars can be visible when the arm is lifted in certain positions. Over time, the incisions will fade and become barely noticeable. Your surgeon’s skill is the most critical factor in achieving the desired outcome. It is important to prevent your scars from direct sunlight for the first 6 months, as this can cause changes in pigmentation. You can be confident that you will achieve a superior result after arm lift surgery when under the care of a doctor with the experience of Dr. Antell.
