Authored by
Dr. Eraj Basseri, M.D.
You should expect a certain amount of pain which is localized to the armpit area. Generally speaking, it is not severe and is manageable with oral medications that will be prescribed to you. The pain threshold is different from person-to-person, but it is safe to say that the pain levels are generally tolerable. One should expect the pain to decrease a few days after the operation.
It is recommended that your physical activity is kept to a minimum for the first few days. You can gradually increase activity back to normal levels. For strenuous physical activity (jogging, basketball, working out) one should listen to his/her body.
There are no rigid rules. No muscles have been cut in this operation, so the healing process should be fast. Dr. Basseri will explain how you should use padding in the armpit area to help with the healing process and to reduce the amount of swelling in the area.
The incisions are very small (2mm). No sutures are used and those holes will close on their own within a short time.
You can take a shower or bath the day after the procedure. The bandages can be removed and new ones can be applied (your decision). Most of the time, patients are comfortable with replacing their band-aids for a few days. Use of soap or skin lotions is fine.
You can feel free to return to your normal diet immediately after the procedure.
Yes, deodorants can be used after the operation. Since no operation can eliminate underarm sweating completely, the deodorant is used to control any minimal perspiration and aid with normal body odor.
No muscles have been cut in this operation, so the healing process should be fast. Dr. Basseri will explain how you should use padding in the armpit area to help with the healing process and to reduce the amount of swelling in the area.
From the recovery guide
A typical recovery
Day of Surgery
Outpatient procedure — you return home the same day and can resume your normal diet right away. Oral pain medication is prescribed to keep discomfort manageable.
The Days After
Shower or bathe starting the day after surgery; soap and lotions are fine. Keep activity light at first, then build back up. Any soreness is typically mild and eases within a few days.
Week 1+
Gradually return to your usual routine. There are no rigid rules for strenuous activity like jogging or working out — listen to your body.
We are here for you
This guide is a general overview. Every recovery is personal. Call Dr. Basseri with any concerns or questions, or email us — photos welcome if something is worrying you. We love to hear from our patients.
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