What is brachioplasty?
Brachioplasty, also known as arm fat removal surgery / arm lift surgery procedure that reshapes the back and underside of the upper arm, extending from the shoulder to the elbow. This surgery removes excess skin and fat, resulting in a smoother and smaller appearance of the upper arm.
When significant weight is gained, the skin gradually stretches. However, after substantial weight loss, especially with aging, the skin may lack the elasticity to retract fully, leading to sagging and extra skin folds. These are often found under the arms, chin, upper thighs, and lower abdomen, particularly after weight-loss surgery.
Brachioplasty is a body-contouring surgery frequently performed after weight-loss surgery. Many individuals who undergo weight-loss surgery seek reshaping procedures. Surgeons often perform brachioplasty alongside other surgeries, such as contouring the midsection, chin, or inner thighs.
During brachioplasty, a plastic, cosmetic, or aesthetic surgeon removes excess tissue from under the upper arm. An incision is made on the inner or back side of the arm, and liposuction may be performed. The surgeon removes excess skin and fat, then stitches the remaining tissue to create a smoother contour and potentially enhance muscle tone. Sometimes, additional tissue is removed from the chest side, resulting in a longer scar.
General anesthesia is typically used, so you will likely be asleep during the procedure.
Why might I need a brachioplasty?
This surgery may be suitable if you have recently lost significant weight, often following weight-loss surgery. You might be dissatisfied with your appearance due to excess tissue folds under the arms or notice additional skin as you age.
These extra skin folds may cause:
General discomfort
Inflammation and rash, potentially leading to infection
Hygiene issues in the affected area
Reduced self-esteem
What are the risks of brachioplasty?
Generally, brachioplasty is considered safe, but like all surgeries, it carries risks.
Your risks depend on factors such as age, weight loss magnitude, and existing health conditions, as well as your surgeon's surgical approach. Discuss the specific risks with your doctor.
Potential risks include:
Wound healing difficulties
Infection
Excessive bleeding
Lymphatic tissue damage, possibly causing permanent arm swelling
Nerve damage, leading to temporary or permanent numbness
Anesthesia-related complications
Persistent pain
Blood clots, such as pulmonary embolism
Recurring skin looseness
The surgery might not yield the desired results, necessitating further procedures to enhance the upper arm contour.
The surgery will leave a noticeable scar on the arm, which may take time to mature and could remain prominent.
How do I get ready for a brachioplasty?
Consult your healthcare provider to determine if this surgery is appropriate for you, especially if certain health conditions make the risks outweigh the benefits. Your surgeon will ensure you have realistic expectations and are committed to maintaining a healthy lifestyle, stable weight, and overall fitness.
Most health insurance plans do not cover body-contouring surgeries unless complications arise, such as infections around skin folds. These surgeries can be costly, so assess your financial situation and discuss costs with your plastic surgeon.
Do not undergo this surgery until achieving a stable weight. Weight loss post-surgery can result in new sagging areas, while significant weight gain can damage weakened skin, causing stretch marks and wide scars.
If you smoke, quit several weeks before surgery, as smoking significantly increases complication risks. Consult your surgeon about discontinuing any medications, including over-the-counter ones like aspirin and blood thinners. Follow pre-surgery instructions, such as fasting after midnight before the surgery day. Inform your surgeon of any recent health issues, like fever.
Your surgeon may conduct pre-surgery tests, including:
Electrocardiogram to assess heart rhythm
Pulmonary function tests to evaluate lung function
Basic blood tests to check for infection, anemia, and kidney function
Your surgeon may provide additional preparation instructions for your surgery.
What happens during a brachioplasty?
Your surgeon will explain the surgical details, and a team of nurses will assist. Generally, the procedure involves:
Receiving general anesthesia to remain asleep and pain-free, or local anesthesia with a sedative to stay relaxed but awake.
An anesthesiologist monitoring vital signs like heart rate and blood pressure during the surgery.
Administering antibiotics during and post-procedure to prevent infection.
Making an incision along the arm's back or inner side, possibly extending from the underarm to the elbow or partially down the chest. Liposuction may be performed.
Removing excess skin and fat, tightening and reshaping underlying tissue, and possibly placing a drain for excess blood or fluid. The incision is then closed.
Reconnecting the skin to create a smooth contour.
Performing additional body-contouring surgeries if planned, including arm liposuction as part of the brachioplasty.
Applying dressings to the incisions.
What happens after a brachioplasty?
Upon waking, you may have a small tube under the skin to drain wound fluid, and incisions will be covered with dressings or bandages. Elastic bandages or a compression garment may be used to reduce swelling. Pain medication can be requested if needed, and a normal diet can be resumed when ready.
Hospital stays may be required overnight, though some patients may go home the same day. Ensure someone can drive you home and assist post-surgery, as driving is unsafe for several days.
Your surgeon will provide instructions on caring for your incisions. Minor fluid drainage is normal, but report severe drainage, redness, or fever. Alert your surgeon immediately if experiencing severe symptoms like sudden shortness of breath or chest pain.
Your surgeon will advise on post-surgery movement limitations to avoid excessive pressure on healing incisions. Following instructions carefully aids in a smooth recovery.
Brachioplasty results are visible immediately and last if weight remains stable. Discuss with your surgeon if unsatisfied with the results, as additional surgeries may be necessary for optimal outcomes.
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