An Arm Lift Surgery (Brachioplasty) is a type of body contouring procedure which creates a slimmer arm contour by removing excess skin and fat, which can develop with age, or more commonly after massive weight loss. Whereas excess fat can sometimes be reduced through diet and exercise, skin that is damaged or stretched does not shrink. In these situations, an Arm Lift Surgery is an excellent procedure to restore a smooth arm contour. At the time of your consultation, Dr. Li will analyze your arms in detail and discuss whether Arm Lift Surgery is a good option for you.
The surgery usually involves a longitudinal scar, hidden either on the inner or posterior aspect of your arm. If there is also excess skin involving the armpit and/or torso, the Arm Lift Surgery can also be modified and extra skin removed in those areas as well (Extended Brachioplasty). Sometimes, liposuction may also be used to further contour the arm.
KEY POINTS
SURGERY UNDER GENERAL ANESTHETIC
GO HOME THE SAME DAY (DAY SURGERY)
RETURN TO NORMAL ACTIVITIES WITHIN 2-3 WEEKS
ARM CONTOUR IMPROVEMENT IS PERMANENT
CREATE AN ARM SHAPE THAT MATCHES YOUR PROPORTIONS
HAVE LESS LIMITATIONS IN PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES AND CLOTHES
HIDE SCARS ON THE INNER/POSTERIOR ASPECT OF YOUR ARM OR LATERAL CHEST
BOOST YOUR BODY IMAGE AND REWARD YOURSELF AFTER WEIGHT LOSS
WHAT TO EXPECT BEFORE SURGERY
You will be evaluated by Dr. Li at the time of your initial consultation to determine if Arm Lift Surgery is the best option for you
You will be required to quit smoking and oral contraceptives 4 weeks before surgery
You will need to complete testing before surgery, which may include a physical with your PCP/primary physician, blood work, and an ECG
Prescriptions for your surgery will be sent to your local pharmacy, please obtain these medications ahead of time and bring them to your surgery
A deposit is required to secure your surgery date
Full payment is required 2 weeks before surgery; payment options include cash, cashier's check, or credit through Alphaeon or CareCredit
WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER SURGERY
General anesthesia can sometimes cause generalized body soreness and fatigue for a couple of days
Maximum discomfort will occur in the first few days after surgery and gradually improve
You will not be allowed to lift more than 10lbs for 4 weeks as a safety precaution
You will be provided a compression garment to wear; it is recommended that you wear this for 6 weeks to help shape your arms and minimize swelling
You will have drains after surgery and will be given instructions on how to take care of them
You may experience temporary bruising, swelling, numbness, or a burning sensation involving your arms; bruising and swelling takes several weeks to improve; numbness takes a couple months to normalize
Scars may be red and firm for approximately 6 months before they soften and fade