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Day by Day Arm Liposuction Recovery – A Surgeon’s Guide

By: Thomas Su, M.D.

6/7/2023

When you’re equipped with a day-by-day arm liposuction recovery guide, you will know what to expect after your surgery. Knowing what will happen after your procedure is important so you can prepare adequately. In this surgeon’s guide, you’ll learn all you need to know to prepare yourself for your big day.

A Timeline Overview

The recovery process naturally varies between individuals depending on their age and overall health. In many cases, recovery times are around four to six weeks. However, seeing the surgery’s final outcome may take far longer. You may not see your final shape for another six months.

Surgery Day

Immediately after your procedure, you’ll have some mild to moderate pain. You will still benefit from the effect of the local anesthetic, so your pain shouldn’t be too severe. You’ll begin to notice some bruising and swelling as the day goes on. You will also notice some restricted movement in your arms.

Your surgeon will put you into a compression garment before you go home. You must wear it all the time. Your surgeon may also give you some painkillers to take home. Alternatively, they may advise you to use over-the-counter painkillers. You must arrange for somebody to take you home as you cannot drive yourself. You need to try to rest for a few days to allow you to recuperate effectively.

Some fluid may leak from your incisions. That is entirely normal, but don’t bathe or shower yet. That could introduce infection into your incisions.

Your First Week

In the first week after the procedure, you’ll experience more bruising and swelling. However, as the week continues, this will start subsiding. You may feel ready to go back to your job if it is sedentary when your first week of recovery ends. You’ll also be able to resume most daily activities. You should do gentle exercises like walking but avoid intense workouts and heavy lifting. You can also take a shower now, but you can’t bathe or swim due to the risk of infection. You must wear the compression garment all of the time except while showering. You’ll also have a follow-up appointment to check your progress.

Your First Month

After the first week following surgery, you’ll notice you begin to feel better. As the first month ends, you’ll have minimal pain, although potentially a little discomfort. By now, you can shower and do moderate levels of physical activity. You should still avoid lifting heavy weights, though. You’ll have some swelling and bruising, but you’ll notice it improving after around three weeks. You may even start to notice some initial results.

Months Two and Three

Around four to six weeks post-surgery, your surgeon will advise you to stop wearing your compression garments. You’ll notice your arms look slimmer by this point, but there may still be some swelling. It’s important to monitor your arms to ensure their appearance is improving with time. You should consult with your surgeon if you notice any redness, rashes, or anything unexpected. If your surgeon agrees, you can also return to doing rigorous exercise, including heavy lifting and swimming.

Some patients see their final result when three months have passed. Others must wait a little longer. They see their final outcome after around six months.

A Personal Journey to Recovery

A significant thing to remember about your recovery period is that patience is crucial. You won’t see results immediately after the surgery. It’s also vital for you to take action to aid your recovery as well.

You must:

  • Always wear your compression garment as your surgeon prescribes.
  • Take gentle exercise regularly to boost your blood circulation and promote a better recovery.
  • Avoid smoking, vaping, and drinking alcohol before and after your procedure.
  • Avoid any heavy lifting and strenuous activities until your surgeon advises that it’s safe.
  • Ensure the incision site remains clean to prevent infections.
  • Keep a close eye on your arms to ensure there are no signs of any infection or other issues.
  • Avoid swimming and bathing until your surgeon gives you the green light.
  • Attend your follow-up appointments as arranged to check on your progress and healing.
  • Stay well-hydrated and eat healthy in the long term.

The most essential item to remember is to choose the most experienced and talented surgeon possible for your procedure. You can have confidence that they’ll give you the best possible professional advice about your recovery. You must also follow that advice very carefully to ensure the best outcome.

Dr. Su at Ar tLipo is a specialist in the field of liposuction. His Celebrity Arms procedure produces amazing results for his patients. He can give you the details you require at your consultation about your day-by-day arm liposuction recovery. Give the ArtLipo team a call today and arrange your appointment.

* All information subject to change. Images may contain models. Individual results are not guaranteed and may vary.