ARM LIFT or Brachioplasty
An arm lift is a surgical procedure that reshapes the upper arm, from the underarm region to the elbow. This procedure is performed to reduce excess sagging skin that droops downward when the arm is extended away from the body and to tighten and smooth the underlying supportive tissue that defines the shape of the upper arm. Many times this procedure is performed on patients who have lost a significant amount of weight or whose skin has been so stretched that it loses the ability to retract.
The procedure begins with an incision placed along the inside of the upper arm. The incision may extend from the underarm to the elbow. The length and placement of the incision depends on the amount and location of excess skin to be removed. It fat needs to be removed at the same time as your arm lift, it will be performed with liposuction. The underlying tissue is then tightened and reshaped with internal sutures. The shape and tightness is achieved and then smoothed over the new contour of your arm, with excess skin reduced.
Generally, an arm lift procedure can be performed in a surgical center or hospital on an outpatient basis. The procedure is most commonly performed under general anesthesia, but you should feel ready to go home within a couple of hours after your procedure.
Once your arm lift is completed, dressings or bandages will be applied, and your arms will be wrapped in an bandage to minimize swelling and to support your new contours as you heal. Following your surgery, your arms will be swollen and bruised and you will experience some discomfort. You will want to keep your arms elevated for several days, however, we encourage you to start light walking as soon as possible to minimize the potential for complications. You will be advised against lifting or bearing weight on your arms for 2-3 weeks. You may be able to return to work within a few days, as long as you do not engage in any lifting or vigorous exercise.
The result of arm lift will be long-lasting, provided that you maintain a stable weight and general fitness. A smooth, toned arm that matches your body image and personal goals does, however, come with visible scars, though every effort is made to hide and minimize them. This is a fair trade-off to achieving a body contour that matches your body weight and proportion.
