Brachioplasty (upper arm lift surgery) focuses on correcting skin sagging, removing excess fat and restoring firmness in the arm area.
Over time or after extreme weight loss, arms tend to sag. Several techniques can be applied to remove excess skin and fat in order to achieve firmer and shapely arms.
Ideal candidates
Ideal brachinoplasty candidates are people who have a significant arm sagging issue, either due to inheritance or aging, or because of extreme weight loss resulting after diet and exercise or even an obesity surgery.
Brachioplasty is contraindicated in subjects with obesity or still in a weight loss process, since the result cannot be maintained.
Operation
During brachinoplasty, the physician removes excess skin. Depending on the case, liposuction may also be required. The whole process takes about 1.5-2 hours.
Techniques
Depending on the sagging issue and each individual subject, 3 different techniques can be applied:
- The first technique entails a small, curved incision in the axillary area, which is ideal for subjects with mild sagging.
- The second technique entails an incision along the back of the arm, extending from the armpit (axilla) to the elbow.
- The third technique entails an incision along the inside of the arm, extending from the armpit (axilla) to the elbow.
Anesthesia
Brachioplasty can be performed under either general or local anesthesia – depending on each case. The best method is selected by the physician and the anesthesiologist, aiming at patient comfort and safety during the operation.
Postoperatively
After brachinoplasty drains might be fitted on the incision, which are removed 24 hours later.
For the first 3 weeks, an elastic bandage should be used throughout the day to protect the arms, while for the next 3 weeks the elastic bandage is recommended during sleep.
Results and Recovery
Brachioplasty results are immediately visible and the arm is expected to get its final shape 6 months later. Subjects can return to their daily activities within the first week, and can perform manual work 2-3 weeks after surgery.
Scars are quite evident during the first 3 months and, although progressively fading, they are never completely eliminated.
If there are no weight fluctuations, brachinoplasty results can be maintained for many years.
Cost
Brachioplasty cost depends on the extent of the area operated and each individual case (patient). Furthermore, the cost of hospitalization, any pre- or postoperative medical tests required and medication should be taken into account as well.
