An arm lift, or brachioplasty, is a common surgical procedure used to address excess fat and/or skin of the upper arm. There are many variations to this surgery, and it is individually tailored to each patient based on several factors including:
A consultation with Dr. Vaca will help determine which type of brachioplasty surgery will best help address your concerns. Liposuction can be combined with most arm lift techniques; however, the anticipated amount and location of extra & loose skin helps determine which technique is most appropriate. There are several types of brachioplasty including:
Liposuction OnlyWhile this is technically not considered an arm lift, liposuction alone may be helpful in younger patients with extra fatty tissue and little to no extra skin with good elasticity (i.e., patients whose skin is expected to retract after surgery). Liposuction is performed via very small incisions to remove extra fatty tissue.
Limited Incision Arm LiftIf there is extra skin limited to the upper arm near the armpit, then a smaller incision may be used to remove upper arm skin. This incision is concealed along the crease of the upper arm near the armpit.
Traditional Arm LiftIf your arm has extra skin and fatty tissue from your armpit to your elbow, then you are likely a candidate for a traditional arm lift. Liposuction is often used to remove extra fatty tissue and improve the contour of your arm. An incision is then made along the inner part of your arm to remove extra skin. This procedure is more commonly used in patients with significant weight loss and is an effective way to address larger areas of loose skin.
Extended Arm LiftIn some patients, especially after significant weight loss, the area of extra skin can extend down the body and side of the chest. The incision is very similar to a traditional arm lift, except that the incision extends past the armpit onto the side of the body.
All surgical procedures carry a degree of uncertainty and risk. Thankfully, the risk of any major complication is rare.
While every attempt is made to make the scars as faint and hidden as possible, scars may be more prominent in some patients. Occasionally, these scars may require revision. Poor healing can occur – this is more common in smokers. Unfavorable scarring is more common in patients who experience poor healing.
Infection and bleeding are rare but can occur. Injury to the nerves that provide sensation to the inner arm and upper forearm is rare but can occur. This can result in numbness or decreased sensation in these areas.
There is the possibility of developing a fluid collection which may require drainage.
During surgery, every attempt is made to make the contour of your arm as best as possible. However, in patients with very loose and stretched skin, the skin is more prone to re-stretch and loosen over time. This is more common in patients who have had significant weight loss.