Liposuction – Arm Recovery Guide

Day of Surgery

• Do not drive or operate machinery for at least 24 hours after surgery.
• Take all prescribed medications as instructed.
• Your incision stitches may be intentionally left loose to allow fluid drainage.
• During your follow-up visit the next day, the stitches may be tightened.
• Rest comfortably but avoid prolonged bed rest.

Fluid Leakage Is Normal

Small amounts of blood-tinged fluid may drain from the incision sites during the first 24 hours.

• This drainage is expected.
• Use sterile gauze if necessary.
• Do not remove or open the dressing yourself.
• The drainage helps reduce swelling and is a normal part of recovery.

Compression Garment

Compression garments help:

• Reduce swelling.
• Support skin contraction.
• Improve arm contour formation.
• Reduce the risk of fluid accumulation, also called seroma.

Walking and Daily Activity

• Begin walking on the evening after surgery.
• Take frequent short walks throughout the day.
• Avoid prolonged bed rest.
• Light daily activities are encouraged.
• Avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting during early recovery.

Showering and Hygiene

• You may begin showering on the second day after waterproof bandages have been applied.
• Use warm water rather than hot water.
• Pat the treated area dry gently.
• Avoid hot baths, saunas, swimming pools, and ocean swimming until your stitches have been removed.
• Do not apply hydrogen peroxide to incision sites.
• Do not apply adhesive bandages unless instructed by the clinic.

Swelling, Bruising, and Firmness

Swelling and bruising are expected after arm liposuction.

• Your arms may temporarily appear larger than expected.
• Bruising may extend toward the elbows or forearms.
• The treated area may feel firm, uneven, or numb.
• Temporary contour irregularities are normal during healing.

Most of these changes improve gradually over the following weeks and months.

Arm Tightness and Limited Motion

Some patients notice tightness in the upper arm or armpit area during recovery.

• Mild limitation of arm movement is common.
• Reaching overhead may feel uncomfortable.
• This usually improves as swelling decreases.
• Avoid aggressive stretching during the first two weeks.

Axillary Web Syndrome and Biobond

Occasionally, a cord-like band may develop in the armpit or upper arm several weeks after surgery.

This may be related to Axillary Web Syndrome or Biobond formation. It can occur as part of the natural healing process as lymphatic channels and connective tissues recover after fat removal.

• The cord may feel tight or uncomfortable.
• You may notice pulling when lifting your arm.
• This is usually temporary.
• Most cases improve naturally over weeks or months.

Stretching After Two Weeks

These gentle stretching exercises may help improve shoulder and arm mobility, reduce tightness in the armpit area, and support recovery after arm liposuction. Most patients may begin stretching approximately 2 weeks after surgery, following approval from their surgeon.

Once approved by your surgeon, gentle stretching may help improve arm mobility and reduce tightness.

• Begin stretching approximately 2 weeks after surgery, if approved by your surgeon.
• Perform movements slowly and gently.
• Do not force the stretch.
• Stop if you feel sharp pain or worsening discomfort.
• Gradually increase range of motion over time.

Diet and Recovery

• Maintain a healthy, balanced diet.
• Avoid alcohol during early recovery.
• Limit excessive sodium intake.
• Maintain a stable weight after surgery.

Arm liposuction improves contour but does not prevent future weight gain.

When Will I See My Results?

When to Contact Evita Clinic

• Fever above 38°C (100.4°F).
• Increasing redness.
• Persistent bleeding.
• Sudden severe swelling.
• Severe pain not relieved by medication.
• Difficulty moving the arm that suddenly worsens.
• Any symptom that concerns you.