Brachioplasty (Arm Lift)

What is brachioplasty?

Brachioplasty is aimed at reducing excess skin and adipose (arm fat) tissue between the elbow and the underarm. The surgery results in a more balanced and toned look. The main reason to consider arm lift surgery is to correct drooping arm skin in order to tighten and smoothen the shape of the arm.

Procedure:

Usually lasting about an hour and a half and performed under general anesthesia, brachioplasty removes excess arm skin and fat using one of three incisions. Depending on the case, the incisions can either be placed on the inner arm, on the back of the arm or via a minimal incision in the armpit. The excess skin and fat is removed and the remaining tissue is tightened and re-draped. An arm liposuccion is usually done at the same time.

Recovery:

After the surgery, there may be some discomfort for a few days. A compressive dressing is usually worn for two to four weeks. It is usually possible to return to work in two weeks. Vigorous physical activity can only be undertaken after six weeks.

The scars usually fade over a period of six to twelve months but do not completely disappear.

Risks and Complications:

All surgeries expose patients to risks and complications. In cosmetic surgery, all efforts are made to minimize these risks, but they cannot be completely eliminated. A partial list of complications for brachioplasty includes: scarring, infection, hematoma, wound dehiscence, and contour deformity. It is important to discuss these risks with your surgeon as part of your decision making process.