After your arm lift surgery, you will have some swelling and bruising, which will dissipate over the next few weeks. Additionally, many patients report feeling soreness and tightness in their arms. This is completely normal, and any pain can be mediated with prescription or over-the-counter medication.
Since you use your arms for nearly everything in life, it can be a challenge to not use them. However, during your recovery, it is important that you allow yourself the rest that your body needs to heal. This means refraining from any strenuous activities, including any exercise, except for short, slow walks.
Additionally, it is vital that you wear the prescribed compression garments, as these help minimize swelling, keep the shape of your newly contoured arms in place, and help promote the recovery process.
Most patients are able to return to work after a few days and are recovered after about two weeks. However, it’s important that you still refrain from any strenuous activity until you are cleared by your plastic surgeon (which generally takes at least one month).