UPPER ARM LIFT (BRACHIOPLASTY)
An arm lift, also known as brachioplasty, is a surgical procedure to remove loose skin and excess fat deposits in the upper arm. With age, upper arm skin can become loose and flabby. Plastic surgeons will discuss brachioplasty with patients who want to tighten this skin and look as good as they feel. In some cases your plastic surgeon may suggest that liposuction be used alone or in conjunction with an arm lift to remove excess fat in the upper arms.
WHO IS A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR AN ARM LIFT?
Healthy, nonsmoking patients with isolated resulting loose skin on the inside and back of the arms would be good candidates for this procedure.
Patients who have lost a considerable amount of weight should aim to maintain a stable weight for at least six months prior to consideration of brachioplasty or any other body contouring procedures.
RECOVERING FROM AN ARM LIFT
While you recover from surgery, you might need to wear a compression garment to control swelling. Your doctor might also insert a temporary drainage tube in your arm to drain any fluid or blood that builds up after surgery.
Your doctor will give you postoperative care instructions to take home. These will cover how to take care of your wounds, which medications to take and when, warning signs to look for, and a timeline for follow-up appointments.
It’s important to also avoid smoking while you recover from an arm lift. Smoking slows down the healing process, which raises your risk of developing permanent scarring or infections.
ARM LIFT RESULTS
While it carries the same risks as other surgeries, you can improve your results by following your doctor’s instructions before and after surgery. You’ll eventually lose some firmness over time due to age, but the overall results should last for many years.
You should be able to return to work or school and resume some activities within two weeks. Within six weeks, you should be able to return to your normal activity level. Tell your doctor about any pain or problems moving after the initial recovery period.
