What is Brachioplasty? Also called an arm lift, Brachioplasty is a surgical procedure that:
- Reduces excess sagging skin
- Tightens and smoothes the underlying supportive tissue to define shape in the arm
- Reduces localized pockets of fat in the arm
Age, heredity, and weight fluctuations over time can change the appearance of the arm, creating that dreaded “batwing” look. Once you turn 30, your muscle mass begins to decrease up to 5% and continues to lose more mass every 10 years. If you have tried exercising and weight training to no avail, an arm lift may be something to consider, especially if:
- Your weight is relatively stable and you are not significantly overweight
- You are healthy with no medical conditions that can impair healing or increase the risk of surgery
- You are a nonsmoker
The Consultation
When you come in for an arm lift consultation with Coal Creek Plastic Surgery, we will discuss these points (above) as well as any allergies or drug interactions you’ve experienced, your current medications, alcohol and tobacco use, and past surgeries. Please do ask questions or voice concerns you have about the surgery, results, and recovery. Our helpful and caring team is more than happy to discuss these concerns with you.
The Preparation
In preparation for arm lift surgery, you may be asked to:
- Get lab testing or a medical evaluation
- Take certain medications or adjust your current medications
- Stop smoking
- Avoid taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs, and herbal supplements as they can increase bleeding
Although Brachioplasty is an outpatient procedure, you will need to arrange for transportation home after the surgery and for at-home care during recovery.
The Surgery
Medications are administered for your comfort during arm lift surgery. Your surgeon will discuss the anesthesia options with you prior to surgery.
Incisions are generally placed on the inside of the arm or on the back of the arm and may extend from the underarm (axilla) to just above the elbow.
Excess fat may be directly excised or treated with liposuction. Depending on your specific condition, incisions may be more limited. Then, underlying supportive tissue is tightened and reshaped with internal sutures. Finally, the skin is smoothed over the new contour of your arm.
Your incisions will be closed either with absorbable sutures or stitches that will be removed within one to two weeks following your arm lift.
The Recovery
During your recovery from arm lift surgery, dressings may be applied to your incisions, and your arms may be wrapped in an elastic bandage or a compression garment to minimize swelling following surgery.
A small, thin tube may be temporarily placed under the skin to drain any excess blood or fluid.
You will be given specific instructions on how to care for the surgical site and drains, medications to apply or take orally to aid healing, specific concerns to look for, and when to follow up with us. We will also give you guidelines for:
- How long to wear compression garments
- When you can resume normal activity
- When you can resume exercise and physical activity
You will have soreness and bruising for several weeks. It helps to elevate the arm, wear loose clothing, and to stay hydrated. Follow post-op instructions for a speedier recovery.
There will be a scar, but we plan our surgeries to minimize this and will instruct on after-care to reduce the appearance over time.
The Results
Expect to see results shortly after surgery. There will be swelling at first, but when fully recovered, your arms will look more toned and firm. You may feel more comfortable wearing sleeveless tops and swimwear too! Keep in mind that the tissue removal is permanent, so for long-lasting results, it is important to maintain a stable weight.
For more information, contact us or visit The American Society of Plastic Surgeons website.
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