Arm Lift Recovery Guide Wingate Plastic Surgery
Your Recovery Timeline
Your recovery journey is just as important as your procedure. Below is a general outline of your follow-up appointment schedule:
- Day 1: Initial post-op visit
- Week 1: Early healing check
- Week 3: Progress evaluation
- Week 6: Final stage follow-up
Before Surgery
To ensure optimal safety and outcomes:
- Avoid aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil), NSAIDs, fish oil, omega-3s, or other blood-thinning supplements for 10 days prior to your procedure, unless specifically approved by Dr. Wingate.
- Plan ahead for someone to drive you home and stay with you during your first few days of recovery.
What to Expect After Surgery
Work & Daily Activities
Most patients return to desk jobs within 1-2 weeks. Discomfort and swelling are expected but typically subside by two weeks. Most are cleared to return to the gym after 6 weeks.
Compression Garments
You will leave the surgical center wearing a compression garment. For best results, you should have two garments ready in advance - snug but comfortable to get on and off. We recommend wearing compression for 6 to 12 weeks post-surgery.
Discomfort
You may experience mild to moderate discomfort, especially if liposuction is included in your procedure. Dr. Wingate typically uses a local anesthetic during surgery that lasts 4-8 hours.
Please fill any prescribed medications before your surgery so they’re available when you return home. Many patients transition to Tylenol and Advil by day two or three.
