What Can I Expect During Arm Lift Recovery?

Although recovery from arm lift surgery will vary from patient to patient, our plastic surgeons can provide you with a guideline of what to expect after your surgery. Depending upon your needs and expectations, the arm lift surgery will be customized to achieve your goals. In rare cases, the surgical incision is made in the underarm area. Patients with moderate to severe skin laxity of the upper arms typically require a longer incision made along the inside of the arm. Which incision type is best for you may impact your recovery.

As with nearly any surgery, you can expect mild soreness, swelling, and bruising immediately after your arm lift. These side effects typically begin to resolve within a few days, and most patients return to work or their normal daily activities within one to two weeks. Any discomfort during this time can be treated with oral pain medication. Residual swelling and soreness may last for several weeks, and during this time our plastic surgeons recommend patients avoid rigorous exercise or strenuous physical activity. After three to four weeks, patients should be able to resume all normal activity and enjoy a slimmer, sleeker silhouette.