The goal of an arm lift, also known as a brachioplasty, is to reduce and reshape the upper arm from the armpit to the elbow or some modification thereof. In the performance of this type of body contouring surgery, the incision(s) can be placed in the armpit if the excess is in the upper one third of the arm. If the excess is not in the upper one third of the arm, the incision is placed either on the inside of the arm or on the back of the arm, depending on the patient’s preference.
However, Dr. English believes that brachioplasty is indicated when liposuction of the arm has not produced the desired results. His reason for this mind set is to avoid the operative scars. If the patient’s skin contracts following arm reduction with the removal of fat via liposuction, then the scars and potential numbness are averted.
At English Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery Center, both arm lift and liposuction procedures are performed by Dr. English under general anesthesia. If liposuction is decided on, then a small hole is made just above the elbow, and the fat is removed. Following its removal, a compression garment is worn for three to five days. If incisional surgery (brachioplasty) is warranted, the incisions are closed very meticulously and no dressing is applied after you go home.
During the initial consultation, Dr. English will analyze your arms and discuss your objectives. He will also review your medical history and lifestyle choices while conducting a physical exam to determine your skin quality, elasticity, and thickness for optimal results. You may be a candidate for arm lift surgery if you:
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are at a normal body weight with upper arm skin laxity or bat wing deformity;
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are in good physical and mental health, with good elasticity of the skin;
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are a non-smoker or committed to refraining from smoking;
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have realistic expectations of the outcome of your surgery; and
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understand the recovery process.
Some of the tricks of the trade include wearing postoperative tape on the scars to prevent their widening as well as routine office visits that are included with your surgery to determine if a small amount of steroid should be injected into the scars to prevent their enlargement. Other techniques used to improve the quality of the healing scars are IPL and/or laser treatments. The results of these procedures are impressive in a few weeks, but the overall results may take 6 to 12 months.