Brachioplasty (Arm Lift)

Brachioplasty is a cosmetic procedure that can enhance the look of your upper arms. It aims to tighten loose skin and supporting tissue, as well as eliminate excess fat. This results in a more defined and sculpted appearance, which cannot be achieved through exercise and diet alone.

Why might I need a brachioplasty?

If you have recently experienced significant weight loss, this surgery might be suitable for you. Typically, it is performed on individuals who have previously undergone weight loss surgery. In the event that you have excess skin folds beneath your arm, you may feel dissatisfied with your appearance after weight loss surgery.

These additional layers of skin can lead to the following issues:

• General discomfort
• Inflammation and a skin rash may result in the development of an infection.
• Problems with hygiene in this area
• Poor self-esteem

Who is a Suitable Candidate for Brachioplasty Surgery?

The individuals who are most suitable for arm lift surgery are those who:

• Experience the presence of loose skin on the arms as a result of getting older or shedding pounds.
• Have a generally healthy state and do not possess any medical ailments that could hinder the process of recovery.
• Keep your weight steady and have reasonable expectations about the results of the surgery.

• Individuals have attempted engaging in physical activity and following a specific diet in order to enhance the appearance of their arms, but they have not been able to attain the desired outcomes.

Preparing for an Brachioplasty

In order to maximize the safety and effectiveness of your arm lift surgery, it is recommended to implement certain measures in the weeks and months leading up to the procedure. Ceasing smoking one to two months prior to the surgery can significantly diminish the likelihood of encountering any complications.

To illustrate, a typical issue caused by smoking is delayed healing of wounds, leading to a higher chance of getting infected. Collaborate with your doctor to develop a strategy for quitting smoking prior to undergoing any surgical procedures.

Your doctor will conduct a preoperative assessment a few weeks prior to your arm lift, examining your overall health and reviewing your medical history. This appointment serves as an opportunity for you to discuss any queries or apprehensions you may have regarding the procedure.

They will begin by examining for any preexisting medical conditions that might pose a risk during the surgical procedure.

In addition, your preoperative assessment could involve:

• lab work
• a chest X-ray
• an electrocardiogram
• a written authorization for medication to be taken before surgery
• making changes to the amount of your current medications and supplements

Your doctor will use the findings from your preoperative evaluation to determine the best and safest method for your surgery. Additionally, it is important for you to discontinue the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, like Advil or Motrin, two weeks prior to the procedure.

What happens during an Brachioplasty?

If you decide to proceed with brachioplasty surgery, here is what you can anticipate:

1. To ensure your comfort, you will be provided with medication. This can consist of general anesthesia, which will induce sleep and eliminate any feeling. Alternatively, you may be given a local anesthetic, which numbs the specific area being operated on and promotes relaxation.
2. Doctors will cut into the inner or rear part of your arm. The size of the cut will vary based on the complexity of the surgery.
3. Excess skin is eliminated by the surgeon through a process of cutting it off, and occasionally, excess fat is eliminated using liposuction.
4. Supportive tissue is tightened using stitches or sutures.
5. Surgeons use sutures to close the incision before finishing the procedure. Additionally, they apply sterile gauze to wrap your arm and minimize the chances of infection.

What happens after a brachioplasty?

Upon awakening, there is a possibility that you will have a tube inserted beneath your skin, which serves the purpose of removing fluid from your injury. It is likely that you will experience some discomfort afterwards, but you have the option to request pain medication. Once you feel prepared, you should be able to resume a regular diet.

It might be necessary for you to spend the night at the hospital. Certain individuals are able to be discharged on the day of the surgery. If this applies to you, ensure that there is someone available to drive you home. Additionally, it is important to arrange for assistance following the surgery because it will not be safe for you to drive for a few days.

The surgeon will provide instructions on how to take care of your incisions. It is typical to experience minor fluid drainage from the incision area. Inform your surgeon if you experience intense drainage, redness, or if you develop a fever. Additionally, immediately notify your surgeon if you experience severe symptoms such as abrupt difficulty in breathing or chest discomfort.

After your surgery, your surgeon will inform you about the extent of movement allowed. It is crucial to avoid exerting excessive force on the incisions during the healing process. Adhering to your surgeon’s instructions diligently will enhance the likelihood of a successful and uncomplicated recovery.

The outcomes of your brachioplasty will be immediately visible and will endure as long as your weight remains stable. If you are unsatisfied with the outcome of the procedure, it is advisable to communicate your concerns with your surgeon. In certain cases, additional surgery may be necessary for optimal results.

Recovering from an arm lift

During your healing process after the surgical procedure, it may be necessary for you to utilize a compression garment in order to manage any swelling that occurs. Additionally, your physician might also place a temporary drainage tube in your arm to eliminate any accumulation of fluids or blood that could arise post-surgery.

After your surgery, your doctor will provide you with a set of instructions to follow once you return home. These guidelines will include information on how to properly care for your wounds, when and which medications to take, signs or symptoms you should be aware of, and the schedule for your future appointments.

While you are recovering from an arm lift, it is crucial to refrain from smoking. Smoking hinders the healing process, increasing the likelihood of permanent scarring or infections.

Within a span of two weeks, you should be able to go back to work or school and start engaging in certain activities again. Within six weeks, you should be fully capable of returning to your regular level of activity. If you experience any pain or difficulties moving after the initial recovery period, it is important to notify your doctor.

Are There Any Potential Risks or Complications?

Similar to any surgical procedure, there are potential risks associated with arm lift surgery. These risks may encompass:

• • Infection at the incision site
• • Excessive bleeding
• • Poor wound healing
• • Scarring
• • Numbness or changes in sensation
• • Unfavorable scarring
• • Asymmetry between both arms

Patients must select a surgeon who is both qualified and experienced in order to reduce the potential dangers linked to the surgery.

Arm lift results

Although there are similar dangers to other surgical procedures, adhering to your doctor’s pre- and post-surgery guidelines can enhance your outcomes. Eventually, natural aging may lead to a slight decrease in firmness, but the overall effects should endure for a considerable period of time.

The patient must carefully search for an appropriate service provider, have information, and ask about the surgeon and his experience. And also, checking examples of his previous operations.

Accordingly, we encourage you to contact the Health & Beauty to obtain all information and details, and to ensure that you have your operation done by the hands of the most skilled doctors working in this specialty.

Request a free consultation.