Information about Arm Lift Surgery also known as Brachioplasty

Brachioplasty or Upper Arm Lift surgery is performed to improve the shape and contour of the arms. Patients with excess fat and loose skin hanging from the upper arm may select this surgery to achieve slimmer, firmer, and younger looking arms. Sometimes a sudden weight loss may result in loose hanging skin around the upper arms, and brachioplasty can help. This surgery is extremely popular with older woman who do not want nor need all that hanging skin or flab on their arms. Once this extra fat is removed or sucked away, most likely it will not return ever.

Procedure

Arm lift surgery may be performed as an outpatient procedure in most cases. The procedure may last for anywhere between two and four hours on average, depending on the extent of surgery, and the patient’s condition. Local anesthesia along with sedation may be used in most cases, but some surgeons recommend general anesthesia.

The procedure begins with an incision made underneath the inner arm region because the scar will be less noticeable later in this area. The incision is made from elbow to the armpit. The surgeon will use the incision to remove excess fat tissue and skin and tightening the underlying muscles. Depending on the amount of excess fat, the surgeon may combine an arm lift with liposuction for more effective results.

Set up a private consultation with Dr. Chattar Cora or Elite Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery.

Recovery

The initial recovery period may be about 10 days in most cases. The patient may experience mild pain, swelling and bruising in the affected areas for the first few days. Over the counter pain reliever medication can be used to provide relief during this period. Full recovery can be expected anywhere between four and six weeks, but the patient can resume normal daily activities after two weeks.

Heavy lifting and aggressive exercises should be avoided until full recovery is achieved. Complete healing of the incisions may take up to a year, and mild scars will remain, though they may not be very pronounced. Results of arm lift surgery can be long lasting, and the patient can enjoy firmer and younger looking arms. Active lifestyle and a balanced diet should be maintained to prolong the effects of the surgery for several years.