Arm Lift Surgery
Known also as brachioplasty, an arm lift is a common form of body contouring which typically focuses on the upper arm and the area connected to the chest.
What is an Arm Lift?
Rejuvenation of the arm area is the primary goal of any arm reduction surgery. Excess skin and fat are removed, typically this is a procedure which suits a post-weight loss patient or someone with excessive loose skin. For best results, an arm lift can be paired with some form of liposuction in order to greater reduce fat in the upper arm area.
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The Arm Lift Consultation Process
A successful consultation process can rely on a number of factors. Including your honesty regarding the expectations you have for your surgery; as well as answering questions regarding your health and lifestyle. It may be the case that a different operation or combination of operations may be a better choice. Potential outcomes, risks or complications of this will be discussed in detail during the consultation in order to ensure full transparency. Please note, any patient looking for treatment following significant weight loss may require additional procedures.
All consultations – no matter the intended surgery – are designed to determine the best course of action for your individual circumstances.
Pre-Surgery Preparation for Arm Reduction Surgery
A general anaesthetic is required for most arm reduction surgery. Ensuring you are healthy is of prime importance, so if you are feeling unwell in any way surgery should be postponed in order for you to recover. Even minor changes to your health should be reported to the surgery team so that they can determine if surgery is viable.
If you are a smoker, then ideally you should stop at least six weeks prior to surgery. Aspirin, anti-inflammatory medicines and any herbal supplements should also be avoided prior to undergoing surgery to avoid complications. In some cases, pre-operative tests will need to be performed to ensure suitability.
What to Expect During Arm Lift Surgery?
Arm lift surgery usually takes between 1 to 2 hours. The surgery begins with an incision in the surface of the arm which is then extended towards the armpit. Depending on the extent of loose skin or fat tissue, this incision can also extend further towards the elbow and down the side of the chest. For a less extensive arm lift, it is possible to perform liposuction prior to the surgery. The surgery would then only be concerned with removing excess skin and whatever fat remains (which should reduce the intensity of the surgery).
The use of internal stitching aides in tightening the inner lining of the arm. Then, the skin is sutured with the use of dissolvable stitches.
What is the Recovery Period after Arm Reduction Surgery?
Some discomfort is typical after any surgery, so you should be prepared to take at least two weeks off from work following any arm reduction surgery.
In terms of scarring, it is typical to see the arm lift scar settling at the 3 month mark post-op. Continual massage and taking proper care of the wound should help remove discomfort during this stage of the process.
