Brachioplasty
A brachioplasty procedure, also known as an arm lift, is a cosmetic procedure that involves improving the appearance of the arms by removing excess skin and tissue in the area.
What Is Brachioplasty Surgery?
During brachioplasty surgery, the focus is on the underlying skin on the arms. By removing excess skin from the armpit to the elbow, it helps to improve the contours of the arms and provide them with a more defined look.
What Should I Expect From The Surgery?
Like any other surgery that’s undertaken here at UK Aesthetic, a consultation will be provided which will allow us to discuss your expectations of the surgery. We’ll also inform you how the procedure will be completed and explore your concerns before going through with it. It’s during your consultation that you should be as honest as possible with us. If you’re currently not in full health or there are risks that will cause complications during the surgery, you should let us know. The surgery will be performed under general or local anaesthesia depending on what is discussed during your consultation and what would be best for you.
Case Studies
Before The Surgery
Before you go through with the brachioplasty surgery, we will need to go through your medical history. You’ll need to tell the surgeon about any medications that have been taken including herbal, over-the-counter and prescribed supplements. There will also be a review as to whether you’ve had any surgeries in the past, as this has the potential to interfere with the final results.
There will also be precautions that you’d have to consider before going through with the brachioplasty surgery. These include:
– Stopping smoking several months before the surgery. Smoking can affect blood flow and also your recovery after the surgery.
– Avoiding taking any medications beforehand. Particular herbal and anti-inflammatory supplements can increase the chances of bleeding.
– Ensuring you have support after the procedure so someone is available to pick you up and look after you during your recovery.
During The Brachioplasty Procedure
Incisions will be placed on the undersides of your arms where the excess fat and skin tissue will be removed. How large the incisions are will be dependent on how much tissue needs to be taken. In some cases, liposuction may be required.
Once the fat is removed, dissolvable stitches are applied and incisions are closed up. It’s important to be aware that this will cause scarring.
Aftercare From The Procedure
Once the procedure has been completed, you’ll most likely be sent back to the ward where you’ll be given the chance to mobilize. Bandages will be applied to where incisions were made which will help to minimise the swelling. The few weeks after the surgery will order a compression sleeve so that swelling can be managed and kept down to a minimal. After the surgery, try to do the following:
– Avoid lifting with your arms for about 3-4 weeks
– Avoid exercise where possible whilst you recover for about 2-3 weeks. Over time, you can gradually build up to your normal exercise through steady and light exercise after 3 weeks or so.
– To prevent any infections, take the recommended doses of medication that may be provided.
FAQs
Why Would I Need Brachioplasty Surgery?
Age is a large factor for excess skin and fat forming around the arm area. This can cause sagging and loose tissue on the upper arm. Extensive weight loss can also be another reason for the change. Many try to reduce the amount of fat that’s formed through exercise, but it can’t resolve the issue of skin losing its elasticity.
Therefore, you may have brachioplasty surgery to resolve this issue and generally improve the appearance of your arms.
What Are The Risks Involved With The Surgery?
Your health is important to us and we’ll ensure you’re as safe as possible as you go through the surgery. There are risks that you should be aware of, including:
– Scarring and Swelling: Scarring and swelling should be expected during the procedure but there the scars are normally placed in areas that aren’t visible. It’s rare, but sometimes scarring can result in raised red scars.
– Arm Asymmetry: During your healing period, there can be changes that occur when affects the symmetry of the arms but our surgeons will always attempt to ensure that your arms are symmetrical as possible.
– Skin Sensation: As there are changes made to your arms during surgery, the repositioning of the arm can interfere with the sensory nerves. This will provide a strange sensation.
Who Is It Not Suitable For?
Your surgeon may refrain from an arm lift surgery if you:
– Smoke regularly
– Have a significant medical history
– Are overweight
– Your weight fluctuates regularly