After having lipedema surgery for the arms, patients should know what to expect from the recovery process. At first, patients will experience pain, bruising, and swelling. They must take care to follow their surgeon’s instructions and always wear their compression garments. After a couple of weeks, the bruising, swelling, and pain will subside. Patients can then return to most normal activities. The final result of the surgery will be noticeable after around six to twelve months.

What is Lipedema Surgery for the Arms?

Arm lipedema surgery is otherwise known as liposuction of the arms. The procedure is in many ways similar to cosmetic liposuction. However, the surgeon must take extra care and use specialized techniques. Surgeons perform the procedure with the patient under a local anesthetic. They make tiny incisions through which they pass a cannula that suctions away the diseased fat. Because the procedure removes the abnormal lipedema fat, it’s an ideal treatment for lipedema sufferers. It eradicates that fat that causes the sufferer pain and discomfort.

The goal of lipedema surgery for the arms is to reduce pain and enhance movement of the arms. It also aims to slow down or even halt the progression of the disease over an extended period of time. The aim of lipedema liposuction isn’t a cosmetic one. Nevertheless, it will also improve appearance of the arms and help to boost the patient’s self-esteem.

Also Read - Is Lipedema Surgery a Permanent Cure?

Will I Experience Pain After Lipedema Surgery?

It’s important to have realistic expectations of the outcome of any kind of procedure. Pain, bruising, and swelling are natural parts of the recovery process after any surgery, including liposuction. It is a natural response of the body’s tissues to the trauma of the procedure. While you can expect these symptoms post-surgery, you needn’t suffer. The surgeon will often prescribe painkillers to help manage this discomfort. Alternatively, over-the-counter painkillers are often sufficient to eliminate any pain you experience after the surgery.

Can I Exercise After Lipedema Surgery?

Immediately after your surgery, you’ll need a couple of days to rest and recuperate. That’s an important part of your recovery. After a couple of days, you should start to do some gentle exercise like walking. That will help to boost your blood circulation and prevent possible complications like blood clots from developing. Strenuous exercise, on the other hand, is out of the question. Doing any activities that are too rigorous could impede your recovery. You must wait until your surgeon gives you the go-ahead before returning to the gym or working out strenuously. You must also avoid swimming for around six weeks post-surgery to avoid the possibility of infection.

Patients should note that once the surgeon gives the green light for exercise, they should adopt an active lifestyle. Living healthily in the long-term is crucial to maintain the positive benefits of the surgery.

Why Must I Wear Compression Garments After Lipedema Surgery?

Immediately after surgery, the surgical team put patients into their compression garments. These garments are crucial to aid healing. Compression garments promote effective healing of the tissues. As a result, they help to ensure the best outcome by reducing swelling and placing even pressure across the tissues. You must wear your compression garment at all times immediately after your surgery. You can remove them to shower, but must put them straight back on again afterward. Your surgeon will advise you as to when you can reduce the length of time you wear your compression garments. You can expect to wear them 24/7 for several weeks though in the first instance.

What Can I Expect in The First Few Weeks Following Surgery?

In the first few weeks following your surgery, you’ll experience bruising and swelling. While this can appear alarming, it’s completely normal. It’ll subside after a couple of weeks. In these early weeks, you must avoid stretching your arms, heavy lifting or carrying out any overhead activities. These activities could strain the healing tissues and negatively impact your outcome.

After a couple of weeks, you’ll notice your arms appear smaller and feel lighter. You should experience improved arm mobility and gradual arm function improvement at this time.

It’s crucial to always attend your arranged follow-up appointments with your surgeon after your procedure. Your surgeon will need to check how well you’re healing to give you appropriate advice. They can also identify any potential complications at an early stage.

How Can I Improve My Chances of a Successful Recovery?

To give yourself the best chance of a successful recovery from arm liposuction, you must adhere to your surgeon’s instructions. Wear your compression garments as prescribed, avoid strenuous activities and attend your follow up appointments. Of course, it also goes without saying that you must choose the right surgeon. Not all surgeons are equally skilled in treating lipedema patients. Dr. Su at ArtLipo is a leading choice thanks to his expertise in the field. Get in touch today to find out more.