Managing Your Donor Arm: What to Expect

Published about 2 months ago • 1 min read

The RFF donor site takes a lot of attention in the first few weeks. It can feel like a lot to manage, but once you get the routine down, it becomes much easier.

Here is what you need to know:

Movement and the Splint

You’ll be in a splint for roughly two weeks. Your arm is mostly off-limits during this time, except for when you take the splint off to change bandages and do your finger exercises (3 times a day). Don't start any wrist exercises until your surgical team clears you.

The Bandage Routine

For approximately two weeks, keep the arm dry by using a plastic cast cover in the shower. Once cleared by your surgical team to wash it, use gentle soap and pat dry—never rub.

Your daily bandage change will usually involve:

• A "wet" layer of Bacitracin and Xeroform.

• Fluffed gauze for padding.

• A wrap of Kerlix gauze and an Ace bandage.

Around week three, you’ll likely switch to Aquaphor on healed areas.

Swelling and Healing

Keep your arm elevated on two pillows whenever you aren't moving around. This is the best way to handle swelling and pain. Once the site is fully closed and cleared by your team, you can start using silicone scar sheets and Bio-Oil to help the scar fade and soften.

Take it one day at a time and focus on the routine.

Stay steady,

Brett Lighthouse Transitions

P.S. If you’re tired of trying to figure out these daily details on your own, I’m building a full system specifically for you. Deep Water: The Phalloplasty Recovery System launches this fall. It’s designed to give you a clear plan for every stage of the process so you can focus on healing.

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