Arm Lift

How to take care of yourself after surgery?

Swelling and Bruising: 

• Bruising and swelling will occur within 48-72 hours after surgery. The third day is usually the worst and then it will gradually get better after day 4. 
• Bruising will be better after 4 days and will fade away within 21 days.
• Swelling will subside quite quickly in the first 2-3 weeks and then gradually subside between 3 to 6 months. 
• Cold compress with a cold pack or a bag of ice is needed in the first 3 days to help reduce swelling and bruising.

Pain and Medication:

• The most painful moment is right after surgery and on the first day. In some patients, it will take some time before all the pain disappears. 
• Surgeons recommend taking anti-inflammatory medicine only when you are in pain. Do not take it more than 6 times per day. 
• There may be some side effects such as nausea or dizziness.
• If a rash or itch occurs after taking the medication, the patient needs to inform the surgeon immediately.

Medication Dosage:

• The antibiotic medication needs to be taken until it is finished. 
• Inform your surgeon of  any underlying condition and medication. The dosages need to be adjusted by your surgeon or medical doctor both before and after surgery. 
• Do not take Aspirin or any medication in Aspirin group, Vitamin E, herbs, or any supplements for at least 2 weeks before and after surgery. It can cause bleeding and bruising.  

Smoking and Drinking:

• Stop smoking 4 weeks prior and 4 weeks post-surgery as the nicotine delays wound healing. Stop drinking 2-4 weeks prior and 2-4 weeks post surgery.

Sleeping:

• Get enough sleep and rest after surgery.
• Sleep on your back and use 1-2 pillows to place your both arms above the heart level. It will  help reduce swelling.

Wound care:

• Before removing surgical drain tubes, patients can only take sponge baths.
• After the surgical drain tubes are removed, surgeons will place  waterproof dressing so you can take quick showers. 
• Waterproof dressing will be removed within 48 hours after you are discharged from the hospital.
• Check waterproof dressing, make sure it is clean and dry at all times.
• Do not touch the wound directly after waterproof dressing has been removed.
• Use cotton buds with normal saline to clean the wound and apply antibiotic cream twice a day. 
• Your surgeon will remove stitches in 7-10 days
• If there are any signs of infection or complications, please inform surgeons immediately.
• Scar cream, scar gel, or silicone sheet can be used 5-7 days after removing all stitches or as soon as the wound is recovered.                                        

Arm Compression Garment:

• You must wear an arm garment for 24 hours at least 1-2 months after surgery or per your surgeons recommendation

Exercise:

• During the first 5 days after surgery, it is important to not engage in any activity that will elevate the blood pressure and possibly cause bruising or hematoma under the skin.
• Avoid exercise for at least 2 months after surgery. 
• Only light exercise is recommended 4-6 weeks after surgery.
• No weight lifting or heavy lifting in first 6 weeks
• Avoid hot tubs or saunas for at least 6 months after surgery. 
• Do not participate in any contact sports for at least 6 months.