What is Brachioplasty?
Brachioplasty, also known as an arm lift, is a plastic surgery procedure aimed at improving the appearance of the upper arms by removing excess skin and fat.
The skin on the upper arms is particularly vulnerable to even small fluctuations in weight. After significant weight loss, the skin often loses its elasticity and does not return to its previous state. For individuals seeking to regain a youthful arm contour, brachioplasty may become a necessary option.
Ideal Candidates
Candidates for brachioplasty are individuals who experience significant skin laxity and fatty tissue in the upper arm area. This often occurs after major weight loss or due to the natural aging process. Candidates should be in good overall health and have realistic expectations about the procedure’s outcomes.
The Procedure in Brief
Prior to surgery, patients should be informed about the procedure and follow specific preoperative instructions, such as discontinuing certain medications and avoiding smoking.
Traditionally, an arm lift involves an incision from the armpit to the elbow on the inner arm, through which excess skin and fat are removed.
A newer technique combines liposuction with skin removal through an incision limited to the armpit, which is well-hidden.
First, liposuction is performed to remove the majority of the fat from the upper arms, reducing volume and improving contour. Then, the excess skin is removed through the armpit incision. This method produces excellent results in most patients with arm laxity.
After the procedure, the incisions are covered with bandages. The arms are gently wrapped in elastic bandages to minimize swelling. Small drains may be placed to remove excess blood or fluid.
A follow-up visit to the plastic surgeon is required two days after surgery. At this visit, the condition is assessed, and the doctor may remove the dressings and drainage tubes if used. Patients may be advised to wear a compression sleeve for several weeks to reduce swelling.
Brachioplasty typically lasts 2 to 3 hours and can be performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia. A few hours after the procedure, patients can usually return home. Most can resume daily activities as early as the following day.
Postoperative Recommendations
- Avoid lifting heavy weights and strenuous physical activities for up to 8 weeks.
- Avoid raising the arms above shoulder level during the first few weeks.
- Take prescribed pain relievers or antibiotics if needed, always under the guidance of your plastic surgeon.
Possible Complications
Like all surgical procedures, brachioplasty carries some risks, such as:
- Scarring: Incisions are made in areas that are not easily visible. Rarely, the scars may become raised or red. Corticosteroid injections or other treatments may help improve their appearance.
- Asymmetry: Some asymmetry in arm shape may occur during the healing process. While the surgeon aims for symmetry, perfect symmetry is not guaranteed.
- Changes in skin sensation: Tissue manipulation may affect superficial sensory nerves, potentially leading to temporary numbness.
- Wound separation: In such cases, additional surgery may be required.
- General surgical risks: These include bleeding, infection, and adverse reactions to anesthesia.
Final Note
In our time, the plastic surgeon is the most suitable beauty consultant for women and men who wish to maintain or improve their appearance.
Do not hesitate to contact Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgeon Dr. Daskalakis for any questions you may have about brachioplasty or any other plastic surgery concerns.
References
- Aljerian A., et al. Complications in Brachioplasty: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, 2022.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34936607/ - Sisti A., et al. Complications Associated with Brachioplasty: A Literature Review. Acta Biomedica, 2018.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29350652/ - Knoetgen J. III & Moran S.L. Long-term Outcomes and Complications Associated with Brachioplasty: A Retrospective Review and Cadaveric Study. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, June 2006.
https://doi.org/10.1097/01.prs.0000218707.95410.47
