How long does it take to heal after arm surgery?

I have loose skin on the back of my arms and would like to have it removed. How long does it take to heal after arm surgery?

Answers from doctors (3)


Postoperative recovery will vary from patient to patient. The technique employed can also play a role.

In my practice, recovery from brachioplasty (excisional procedure for contouring of the upper arm) is typically 4-6 weeks, with a final result becoming apparent at 3-6 months post-op. Patients may have drains present for a few weeks post-op. They are often required to wear a compressive garment for 6-8 weeks post-op.

Exercise can resume at 4 weeks, with strenuous exercise resuming at 6 weeks.

As always, discuss your concerns with a board-certified plastic surgeon (ABPS).

Answered by The Institute of Aesthetic Surgery (View Profile)

Postoperative recovery will vary from patient to patient. The technique employed can also play a role.

In my practice, recovery from brachioplasty (excisional procedure for contouring of the upper arm) is typically 4-6 weeks, with a final result becoming apparent at 3-6 months post-op. Patients may have drains present for a few weeks post-op. They are often required to wear a compressive garment for 6-8 weeks post-op.

Exercise can resume at 4 weeks, with strenuous exercise resuming at 6 weeks.

As always, discuss your concerns with a board-certified plastic surgeon (ABPS).

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Barry J. Kaplan, D.O.

Published on Jun 03, 2016

Two weeks, but you can resume normal life activities in 2-3 days.

//imgs-origin.edoctors.com/imageresizer/image/user_uploads/58x58_85-1/doctors/8052_1464904819.jpg
Answered by Barry J. Kaplan, D.O.

Two weeks, but you can resume normal life activities in 2-3 days.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Edward Domanskis M.D.

Published on Mar 31, 2016

I would give yourself a good two weeks before you start doing anything too vigorous, but check with your plastic surgeon. Use ScaRx Tape for at least two months after the surgery, for the scars can be bad after a brachialplasty.

//imgs-origin.edoctors.com/imageresizer/image/user_uploads/58x58_85-1/doctors/7662_14458730361.jpg
Answered by Edward Domanskis M.D.

I would give yourself a good two weeks before you start doing anything too vigorous, but check with your plastic surgeon. Use ScaRx Tape for at least two months after the surgery, for the scars can be bad after a brachialplasty.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Related Questions for Arm Surgery

Arm Surgery -3 answers
My arms are too big and need about 20 pounds removed. How hard would it be to remove this much excess fat/skin from each one during arm surgery?
See More
Arm Surgery -5 answers
What is involved in the procedure?
See More
Arm Surgery -1 answer
My daughter's left hand middle finger got cut at the age of 2 to 3 years and now both her index finger and middle finger are the same size and the nail is bent forward. She is 12 now. Can we lengthen it and see nail with movement?
See More

Related Articles

Have specific questions?
ASK A DOCTOR