Brachioplasty (Arm Lift)

GET RID OF THOSE “BAT WINGS” FOR GOOD.

A frustrating side effect of losing weight or getting older is developing loose skin. Arm lift surgery (also called Brachioplasty) is a correction for people who cannot seem to tone or tighten the arm through natural methods.

An arm lift procedure is a plastic surgery procedure that uses innovative techniques to slim and eliminate unwanted skin. If you are tired of hiding your flabby arms and want them to look fit and healthy again, you are a great candidate for an arm lift. You should be in good overall health so that the skin will heal well. Some of the main symptoms for potential arm lift patients are hanging, loose skin on the upper arms, and lost tautness of the skin. It is crucial that you are at or close to a healthy, stable weight prior to your surgery.

Surgical Technique

In most cases, your upper arm surgery will take place in an outpatient setting, unless multiple plastic surgeries are to be performed at the same time. An arm lift can be done with other procedures, including a tummy tuck, or thigh lift if the plastic surgeon deems it safe to do so.

An upper arm lift is usually performed under general anesthesia and may take several hours to complete. The loose skin will be surgically removed from the elbow and continuing to the underarm. The incision will be made to be as hidden as possible, but it will become a visible scar. If liposuction is wanted to remove stubborn pockets of fat, this will be performed as well. Once the skin is tightened, it will be sutured together. You will need to keep the incisions cleaned, covered, and supported with compression garments.

Recovery

Your recovery period may last an estimated two weeks with lots of arm elevation and rest needed. It is also important to give yourself time to heal. You use your arms for everything, so patients should slowly make their way back into their normal daily routines. If needed, a suture removal appointment will be scheduled about ten days after surgery. Compression garments should also be worn until you are released by your surgeon.

For at least one month, all exercise and strenuous activity should be avoided, with the exception of frequent, short walks. If you observe excessive swelling, uncontrolled bleeding, hematoma (fluid buildup), infection, loss of feeling in the arms or hands, or heavy scarring, please contact our practice.