Brachioplasty is a form of cosmetic surgery designed to enhance the aesthetic appearance of the upper arms.
Brachioplasty, commonly referred to as an arm lift, is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to enhance the tone and definition of the upper arms. It involves reducing fat pockets, removing excess skin, tightening supportive tissues, and smoothing the remaining skin.
This surgery is particularly beneficial for individuals with drooping or sagging upper arms, which may exhibit a batwing appearance when raised. Factors contributing to this condition include aging, significant weight loss, genetic predispositions, or lymphedema.
The benefits of brachioplasty include the achievement of toned arms. While resistance training, such as weightlifting, can improve muscle tone in the upper arms, it does not effectively address the issue of loose skin. For those considering an arm lift, also known as brachioplasty, certain criteria can indicate if it’s the right option.
Candidates typically have loose skin in their upper arms, are stable in their weight, accept the potential for visible scarring, and have no medical conditions or smoking habits that could complicate surgery.
An arm lift primarily tightens sagging skin, but if a more sculpted appearance is desired, liposuction can be performed simultaneously to remove stubborn fat deposits. Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial, as significant weight fluctuations can lead to renewed sagging, regardless of the surgical procedure.
-Improvement in arm shape
-Firmer arms, more toned
-Results can last a long time with stability of weight
-Surgical risks: Infection, suture complications
-Arm lift leaves a scar
-Delay returning to normal activities such as lifting or exercising
During an arm lift, or brachioplasty which takes 1-3 hrs, patients are given medication for comfort, which may include either general anesthesia or a local anesthetic. The surgeon makes an incision on either the inside or back of the arm, with the size determined by the procedure’s extent.
Incision types vary
To achieve a more toned appearance, excess skin and sometimes fat are removed, often using liposuction. The procedure concludes with the surgeon closing the incision with sutures and applying sterile gauze to minimize infection risk.
The following is an overview of the typical recovery period associated with brachioplasty.
The initial phase of recovery post-surgery may involve some discomfort; however, this discomfort generally diminishes within three to four days.
Following the procedure, the arms may be secured with Ace bandages or compression sleeves—particularly if liposuction of the arms has also been performed—to minimize swelling and restrict movement. It is advisable to retain the bandages for up to 48 hours post-operation, while compression garments may need to be worn for a duration of up to four weeks.
Surgical drains may be inserted near the incisions to facilitate the prevention of fluid accumulation during the healing process. These drainage tubes, along with non-dissolvable stitches, will typically be removed during a follow-up appointment approximately one week post-operation. Dissolvable stitches, on the other hand, will be absorbed by the body, usually within one to two weeks.
Patients will be restricted from elevating their arms above shoulder level for a minimum of 14 days, and it is often recommended to refrain from lifting the arms above the shoulders for at least four weeks. Generally, patients may resume showering 24 to 36 hours after the procedure, and the surgeon will provide specific guidance regarding the extent to which arm movement is permissible.
Incisions from brachioplasty typically require four to eight weeks to heal completely. During this time, it is essential to avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting until full recovery is achieved. For individuals with physically demanding occupations, particularly those involving lifting, it is prudent to anticipate a recovery period of at least one month, and possibly two months, to ensure adequate healing. Even for those engaged in desk jobs, a minimum absence from work of two weeks is advisable.
Patients may also be advised against driving for a period of two weeks following the surgery. Once clearance is granted by the plastic surgeon, individuals may gradually resume exercise.
After your brachioplasty surgery, you may notice some initial results, but these could be masked by swelling. Typically, around six weeks post-surgery, the swelling subsides, revealing a more aesthetically pleasing upper arm shape.
Scars from the procedure can take up to a year to mature, and healthcare professionals often recommend using silicone sheets and serums after stitches are removed. If scars remain red and raised after healing, it’s advisable to consult your surgeon about laser treatments to help reduce their appearance. For those unhappy with their scars, revision surgery is an option, but it involves extra costs and a new recovery period.
Cosmetic arm surgery is typically regarded as a safe procedure. However, like any surgery, it carries potential risks and complications. Common side effects include swelling, bruising, hematomas, hypertrophic scarring, and minor issues with wound healing. While nerve damage is less common, there is a possibility of experiencing temporary or permanent numbness near the incision sites. It’s important to be aware of these risks when considering the surgery.
The average cost of an arm lift is approximately $6,192, per American Society of Plastic Surgeons, with prices ranging from $4,500 to $17,000. Several factors influence the final price, including the surgeon’s experience, the location of their practice, the surgical facility, the anesthesia provider, and the complexity of the procedure, such as the inclusion of liposuction. Since an arm lift is classified as a cosmetic procedure, insurance typically does not cover the expenses.
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