Brachioplasty at the Advanced Liposuction Center

Brachioplasty, or the “arm lift,” is a cosmetic procedure that removes sagging skin from upper arms. Flabby arms can not only be embarrassing, but they interfere with clothes and can cause irritation and a rash. A variety of patients see success with the arm lift, including those who desire toning and definition. Men and women who are in overall good health and maintain a constant weight with diet and exercise are ideal candidates.

A large portion of patients who receive the Brachioplasty procedure have lost weight. Although losing weight has many benefits, one downside is the sagging skin on the arms and that can hang anywhere on the body. Some patients do not like the “wing” look of sagging arms. Sagging occurs because the skin has lost elasticity due to age, tanning, genetics or weight loss. It is quite difficult to restore firmness with exercise alone.

Thankfully there is a solution to restore sagging arm skin. Patients will be able to wear sleeveless shirts and feel confident due to the Advanced Liposuction Center’s Brachioplasty. Dr. Giraldo can provide patients with contoured upper arms and restore a youthful appearance.

Preparation

During the patient’s initial consultation, our experts will discuss treatment goals and expectations, and determine a personalized surgical plan. Patients should avoid smoking for approximately 2 weeks before and after surgery, and drink plenty of water.

Procedure

The Brachioplasty procedure offers excellent cosmetic outcomes on both men and women. Dr. Giraldo removes the unwanted fat under local anesthesia. He makes an incision in the upper arm and after the fat is removed, he pulls the skin downwards to tighten the arm. Then, the incision is stitched and bandaged. Patients will have a tiny scar in the armpit area.  If needed, many scar reduction options are available to buff up to perfection.

Postoperative

After surgery, the arms will be wrapped in an elastic sleeve which reduces swelling. It’s important to not force or use motion during the healing time. Patients should arrange a driver to take them home post­surgery. Swelling and bruising will disperse over 3­-4 weeks while the scar will fade over the next 3­6 months. Patients can return to their normal activities after 2 weeks of rest, however they should not exercise for 6 weeks (only walking). Pain and discomfort are monitored by our expert staff. Patients should also:

  • Keep the incision area covered and protected from pressure
  • Keep arms elevated
  • Take prescribed medications to ensure best results
  • Stay hydrated

Results

The youthful, tight contour and shape of the arms after surgery greatly improves patient’s confidence while dramatically improving the appearance of the arms. Dr. Giraldo does his best to make sure the scar is small and hidden. The results of the procedure are long­lasting as long as patients maintain a healthy weight and diet.

Fat transfer is an option to consider when undergoing Brachioplasty. Patients may use fat cells from their arms to restore volume in other areas of the body.

The Fat Transfer Procedure

Dr. Giraldo uses mild conscious sedation with local anesthesia throughout the entire fat transfer procedure. We use a cannula (small surgical tool) to remove the fat. The cannula is connected to a vacuum, producing a gentle suction mechanism to remove targeted fat. Modern liposuction advancements target the fat cells and leave a natural collagen shape. Dr. Giraldo introduced the Body­Jet Liposuction procedure. This modernized technique combines pressurized water to access the fat tissue, while sparing the remaining area and stem cells. Using this technique is key because there we do not have to enhance the area with platelet rich plasma (PRP), or stem cell isolation. The fat is emulsified while also being extracted. Then, after the fat is processed through the LipoCollector­3 Device, it is ready to be transplanted if desired.

During a liposuction, patients can choose to harvest the fat during the procedure, which means the fat is gently removed from the liposuction area (usually the abdomen, buttocks, thighs or love handles) with a small tool so the fat cell will not become damaged. Then, the fat is placed into a centrifuge which eliminates excess fluids and undesirable fat cells are removed. From here, the fat is injected into the desired area (common areas include breasts, cheeks, forehead, neck, buttocks) with a small tool, either slightly under the wrinkle or in some cases where there is a high vascularity inside of the muscle, the fat is placed in the deep layers of the muscle. The patient’s body will feel tight for a few days and he or she should rest, limit pressure or weight on the area and physical activity.

Recovery

  • Keep treatment area as clean as possible to prevent infection.
  • Patients must arrange a family member or friend to drive them home after surgery. We recommend this person stays with the patient overnight or minimally 1­2 hours post surgery.
  • Wear the compression garment for 2 days without removal. After 3 days, the garment can be removed and placed back on. Patients must wear the garment for 3 weeks.
  • Patients may shower when they are comfortable. Baths should be avoided for 2 weeks. Public pools and hot tubs should be avoided until the incisions have closed.
  • Patients should rest for the first 12 hours after surgery. Walking is encouraged immediately but strenuous exercise (lifting weights, aerobics, running) should be avoided for 2-­3 weeks.
  • Patients may be discolored and swollen, so it’s recommended to rest for at least 24 hours. Swelling can last ­4 weeks.
  • If patients experience nausea, stick to dry crackers, electrolyte beverages and carbonated light soda. If not, patients may start slowly with bland food and liquids. Drink plenty of water.
  • Alcohol combined with medication is dangerous, so carefully follow instructions with your medication.
  • Patients should not smoke for at least 14 days after surgery.
  • In order to ensure best results, follow all instructions from the doctor and his staff and visit us for your postoperative appointment(s).

What is Brachioplasty?
Arm lift, or Brachioplasty, drastically improves the appearance of the upper arms by removing excess fat and tightening the skin. Fat transfers can be performed alongside the arm lift to enhance another area of the body.
Who is the ideal candidate for Brachioplasty?
Home
Men and women who have excess fat on their upper arms due to weight loss, genetics, tanning or age. Patients should be in overall good health.
Who should not get the Brachioplasty?

People who have had their lymph nodes removed, had a mastectomy, those who excessively sweat or have several underarm infections would not be a good candidate for Brachioplasty.
Is it painful?

Patients experience mild to moderate discomfort or pain after surgery. Most patients return to their normal activities within one week.
Where are the incisions?

Dr. Giraldo places an incision under the armpit which will result in a small scar.
How long does the procedure take?

The Brachioplasty typically takes 2 hours.
What kind of anesthesia is used during the arm lift?

Dr. Giraldo performs the Brachioplasty under local anesthesia with mild sedation.
What is recovery like?

Patients may experience swelling and bruising after their surgery. Any other discomfort may be treated with over the counter pain medication or prescriptions. Patients can return to their normal activities as soon as they are comfortable.
Are there any risks associated with the arm lift?

With all surgeries, there are risks involved including infection, nerve damage, poor healing and wound complications are possible. Reduce the risk of these complications by carefully following the pre and post care instructions.
Where does the procedure take place?

Dr. Giraldo performs the surgeries in our Cranberry Township office. Patients should arrange a driver to take them home post surgery.How soon will I notice results and how long will they last?
Patients begin to notice results within a few weeks, as swelling dissolves and will continue to see improvements up to 6 months. Results can be long­lasting as long as the patient follows a healthy lifestyle routine.What should I do to prepare for the Brachioplasty?
Dr. Giraldo and his staff give patients printed preoperative directions including which medications to avoid. Patients must stop smoking at least 2 weeks prior to surgery.Can I afford the Brachioplasty?
Arm lifts are more affordable than you may think. We offer payment plans and run specials as well. Call for our current prices.