Arm Lift Surgery, also known as Brachioplasty, is a procedure designed to adjust the shape of your upper arm contour by removing excess skin and excess fat that can’t be removed with diet and exercise alone.
Excess skin around the arms occurs when the skin has lost its elasticity, usually as a consequence of significant weight loss and the natural ageing process.
Consultation
An in-depth consultation with plastic surgeon Dr Alaina Taylor will be conducted to determine if Arm Lift Surgery is suitable for you. You will discuss your general health and wellbeing with Dr Taylor, including any pre-existing medical conditions, your expectations of the procedure, and your anticipated outcomes. Your arms will be evaluated to ascertain the extent of skin laxity present, which will help determine if Arm Lift Surgery will give you the best result. Taking these factors into consideration, a recommended procedure plan will be made by Dr Taylor, catering to your specific needs.
The procedure
Arm Lift Surgery is performed under general anaesthetic, in an accredited hospital facility. It takes approximately 2 hours to complete and usually requires an overnight stay. An incision is made between the elbow and armpit and sometimes onto the side of the chest. The extent of the incision depends on extent of the surgery. Excess skin and fat is excised to smooth the skin and improve your arm. The skin secured in the new position. Surgical drains may be placed to remove excess fluid and your wounds will be dressed. Liposuction may be performed in addition to surgical excision. You will wear compression garments for 6 weeks after surgery.
Risks and complications
All surgery causes discomfort, bruising, swelling, some oozing or bleeding from wounds, and new scars and carries a risk of wound infection and wound healing problems. Deep vein thrombosis and risks associated with general anaesthesia must be considered.
Some risks and complications specific to arm lift surgery include:
- Postoperative bleeding
- Seroma – accumulation of fluid under the abdominal skin and fat which may become infected
- Asymmetry, contour irregularities
- Wound healing problems and skin necrosis
- Changes in skin sensation
- Poor scarring including hypertophic and keloid scars