Brachioplasty is a surgical procedure for the arms. It is commonly called an arm lift. The aim of this is to improve the shape of the under portion of the upper arm and the connecting area of the chest wall to the elbow, and for a more toned and proportionate appearance. More often, this is done to simply eliminate the loose skin and excess fat in the arms of those who have experienced a massive weight loss. Though exercise can help tighten the muscles, it cannot do anything with the drooping and sagging skin that has lost elasticity due to weakened tissues and fat deposits.
The procedure requires anaesthesia. Once the patient is unconscious, the surgeon will make an incision under the arm, right above the elbow. The incision will depend on the amount of skin that needs to be removed. The incision is done on the back or inside of the arms which may extend from the arm pit (axilla) to just above the elbow. After the incision, the surgeons will then remove the skin and fat, tighten the underlying tissue and reform the tissue with stitches. Surgeons will then smooth the skin over the new contoured arm and will then close the incision with absorbable sutures, or stitches that will be removed within 1-2 weeks following the arm lift. Swelling and bruising are normally seen after the arm lift procedure. However, smoother and well toned arms will be seen and felt right away. The result is permanent but it is also best to maintain a good diet and workout to keep the tone and shape.
What preparations do you need for brachioplasty?
- Prevent taking supplements, aspirin and anti inflammatory drugs which may increase bleeding.
- Stop smoking 6 weeks before surgery.
- Change or start current medications (as per advice).
- Fasting (as per advice).
- Ask your doctor what other preparation you need before and after surgery.
After care instructions:
- The incision will be bandaged. An arm compression or elastic bandage is needed to prevent swelling.
- A dressing may be applied to the incision for quick healing.
- You may be given oral medication to prevent infection and for quick healing.
- Learn the signs of infections.
- Attend your follow up and check up appointment.
- Learn how to properly remove the bandage.
- Know when to resume regular activities.
Note; Always follow your surgeons advice. These instructions are provided as just advice.
For a detailed description on brachioplasty, click here.
To avoid as much risk as possible and bring about the best result in brachioplasty, be sure to choose a Plastic Surgeon who is well versed in all body contouring procedures, including brachioplasty.
Further Reading About Arm lift Surgery
- GOLD COAST- Brachioplasty with plastic surgeon Dr Mark Doyle
- SYDNEY – Arm Lift Surgery – Upper Arm Reduction – Brachioplasty Sydney by Dr Kernohan
- MELBOURNE – Arm Lift Surgery in Melbourne Victoria by Dr Carmen
- PERTH – Arm Lift – Brachioplasty – Dr. Guy Watts
- WESTMEAD – Brachioplasty – Upper Arm Lift | My Klinik – Dr Jake Lim
- CHESTER – Arm Lift | Brachioplasty | Chester – Anca Breahna