Arm Lift Post-Procedure Instructions 

Activity 

• It is very important to begin walking with assistance today, DO NOT remain in bed. 

• While in bed, move your feet by pointing your toes up and down to promote blood flow. 

• No driving until 24 hours after your last narcotic pain medication dose. 

• Keep your arms elevated above the level of your heart for at least the first 2 weeks to reduce swelling and pain. Avoid bending at the elbow to minimize pain and swelling. 

• Do not strain or do anything which requires significant effort. Gradually increase your activities to your comfort level. 

• In general, you will need about 2 weeks off from work. Plan to avoid travel and heavy lifting/ heavy exercise for 4-6 weeks after surgery. 

Home Care 

• Cough and deep breathe every hour while awake for 2 days. For mild fever (less than 100°F), increase frequency of coughing or deep breathing. 

• Wear the compression dressings at all times (unless showering) for at least 1 week. This will help minimize swelling and fluid collections 

• You may shower 48 hours after surgery. Do not go in any hot tubs, baths, or pools. 

• If you have steri-strips (white tape) on the incision keep them in place until you see your doctor. They may fall off on their own and that is OK. 

• Reinforce dressings as needed with gauze or pads. Some drainage is expected. 

• DO NOT smoke (including second-hand smoke) or use nicotine products of any kind for at least 4 weeks before and 4 weeks after surgery. 

• Please plan to have a responsible adult with you for at least 24 hours following surgery. 

• If you were given an antibiotic, please take this as prescribed. 

What to Expect 

• Moderate discomfort and swelling. Bruising and swelling can occur up to 48 hours post-op and may take several weeks (bruising) or months (swelling) to resolve 

• The pain medication will help with the pain but you may still feel pressure and tightness. 

• Spots of drainage on dressings. Drainage may temporarily increase with activity. 

• If you have a drain, refer to separate drain instruction sheet. 

• The scars will improve in color and size from 3 months up to 2 years after your surgery. 

• Numbness, tingling, and sensitivity to physical contact may persist for several weeks or longer. 

• The near-final result is typically apparent 3-6 months after surgery. 

Medication & Comfort 

• You should take the scheduled tylenol, gabapentin, and celecoxib for pain relief as prescribed. Breakthrough pain with the opiate medications. 

• Pain medications may cause drowsiness, upset stomach, and constipation. 

• Take pain medications with food. 

• Do not drink alcohol or drive while taking prescribed pain medication. 

• Refills are only available during office hours – 9am to 5pm, Monday through Friday. If you feel you need more pain medication, please call during those times. 

Call the nurse line (806 810 5828) if you notice: 

• More swelling on one side than the other. 

• Large spots of drainage that soak through the bandages. 

• Severe pain not responding to medication. 

• Fever greater than 101°F 

• Difficulty breathing 

• Signs of infection: If you notice foul-smelling drainage, redness, excessive swelling and pain in the treated areas, please notify us immediately. 

• Final Results: Expect the best results 6-12 months AFTER the surgery. 

If you have an issue after hours, contact Dr. Boonipat directly at 603 731 6888 

I have read and understand ALL the above instructions. I understand that the following instructions are solely my responsibility for a better post-surgical recovery. I understand that it is my responsibility to ask the surgeon about any questions or concerns related to my procedure, health, and healing process.