Lawrence County plastic surgeons want you to know that you don’t have to just accept flabby upper arms. At Advanced Liposuction Center, a complaint we hear frequently from our clients is that even though they have put in the time and effort to lose weight, they still have unsightly upper arms with loose skin and “bat wings.” This then prevents them from being comfortable in sleeveless styles. However, you can still get rid of that loose skin. It’s through a simple procedure called brachioplasty or, as we like to call it, an arm lift.
Below are some frequently asked questions about this procedure:
Q: How is the brachioplasty procedure performed?
A: During brachioplasty, unwanted fat is removed from the upper arm (which, by the way, can be used in a fat transfer to add volume to another part of your body, if you wish). After the fat has been removed, the skin is then pulled downwards to tighten around the arm and then the incision is stitched in the armpit area.
Q: What type of anesthesia is used?
A: Brachioplasty is done with local anesthesia. The entire procedure takes approximately two hours.
Q: Is the procedure painful?
A: Patients who have had brachioplasty say they experienced mild to moderate discomfort after surgery. Usually, you’ll be able to return to all normal activities within one week of the surgery.
Q: What Should I Expect After The Surgery?
A: Once your surgery is done your doctor will wrap your arm with elastic bandages, these bandages will help you minimize swelling, prevent bleeding and decrease the pain.
You may need to stay at the hospital for a while, during this time tubes will be placed in your arm for drainage flow.
After few days you can go home, but you may need to come back hospital to remove the stitches.
After you go home the recovery can take anywhere from 2 weeks to a month.
If you want to recovery faster then you should try the recovery tips given by your doctor, these tips can include drinking plenty of water, following a healthy diet and taking rest.
Furthermore, it’s recommended to avoid strenuous activities too, walking is fine but heavy exercises like weight lifting should be avoided at all costs.
They affect your recovery and can even cause injuries too. After the surgery your arms won’t have enough stress fir a short time so this can also increase the risk of injuries.
However, after few months of surgery when you recovery fully you will be able to do any kind of activity and continue your daily life.
Q: Will The Surgery Cause Scars?
A: Yes, unfortunately because Brachioplasty requires incisions, it’s important to remember that you will need to deal with scars.
However, you don’t need to worry a lot about them since these scars will appear on the places where people can’t notice them, which means it won’t affect your appearance at all.
The scar will surely go away but it may take time, one last thing you should remember about it is that do not expose it to sunlight for 12 months after the surgery.
Or the sunlight can cause discoloration to it and make it look really unpleasant.
Lastly, if it shows any signs of infection or doesn’t heal even after days then immediately call your doctor.
Q: Is there anyone who is not a good candidate for brachioplasty?
A: Generally, men and women in good overall health should be able to have a brachioplasty. However, patients who have had lymph nodes removed, had a mastectomy, sweat excessively or are prone to underarm infections may not be able to have brachioplasty.
How soon after significant weight loss can someone undergo brachioplasty?
The timing for brachioplasty after significant weight loss can vary, but it’s generally advisable to wait until your weight has stabilized for several months. This allows your body to adjust to the new weight, reducing the risk of additional changes that might affect the results of the surgery.
Most plastic surgeons recommend waiting at least 6 to 12 months after reaching your target weight before considering brachioplasty. This period allows for proper healing, ensures a more accurate assessment of excess skin, and reduces the risk of complications associated with fluctuating weight.
Are there age restrictions for brachioplasty?
While there isn’t a specific age restriction for brachioplasty, the suitability for the procedure is typically determined on an individual basis. The overall health and medical history of the patient are more critical factors than age alone.
Younger individuals may undergo brachioplasty if they meet the necessary criteria and have excess skin due to weight loss or other factors. Similarly, older individuals may be considered for the procedure if they are in good health.
The key consideration is the patient’s ability to tolerate surgery and anesthesia, as well as their expectations for the outcome.
What post-operative care and instructions should be followed?
Post-operative care is crucial for a successful brachioplasty recovery. Specific instructions may vary, but common guidelines include:
- Follow Surgeon’s Recommendations: Adhere to your plastic surgeon’s post-operative instructions diligently.
- Rest and Recovery: Allow your body sufficient time to rest and heal. Avoid strenuous activities and lifting heavy objects.
- Prescribed Medications: Take any prescribed medications as directed, including pain relievers and antibiotics, to manage pain and prevent infection.
- Compression Garments: Wear compression garments as advised by your surgeon to minimize swelling and support the healing process.
- Keep Incisions Clean: Follow proper wound care, keeping the incision sites clean and dry. Be cautious when bathing to avoid soaking the incisions initially.
Can brachioplasty address both excess skin and fat in the arms?
Yes, brachioplasty can address both excess skin and fat in the arms. During the procedure, the surgeon removes excess skin to improve arm contour and tighten the underlying tissues. In some cases, liposuction may be used to remove excess fat and enhance the overall result. The combination of skin removal and fat reduction helps achieve a more sculpted appearance in the upper arms. Consult with a qualified plastic surgeon to discuss your specific goals and options.
What factors can impact the success of a brachioplasty procedure?
Several factors can influence the success of a brachioplasty procedure:
- Patient’s Health: Overall health and lifestyle choices can affect recovery and outcomes.
- Skin Elasticity: Good skin elasticity contributes to better contouring results.
- Surgeon’s Skill: The experience and skill of the plastic surgeon performing the brachioplasty are crucial.
- Pre-existing Conditions: Certain medical conditions may impact healing and increase risks.
- Realistic Expectations: Patients with realistic expectations are more likely to be satisfied with the results.
How long do the results of brachioplasty typically last?
The longevity of brachioplasty results varies among individuals and is influenced by factors such as age, genetics, and lifestyle. Generally, the effects of brachioplasty are long-lasting, and many people enjoy improved arm contour for years. Maintaining a stable weight, adopting a healthy lifestyle, and avoiding significant fluctuations can contribute to the longevity of the results. It’s advisable to consult with a plastic surgeon for personalized information based on your specific circumstances.
How visible are the scars after brachioplasty?
Scarring after brachioplasty is inevitable, and the extent can vary. The incisions are typically made on the inner arm, and the scar’s visibility depends on factors like skin type, genetics, and postoperative care. Skilled surgeons aim for inconspicuous placement, and scars often fade over time. Using scar-minimizing techniques and following postoperative instructions can help reduce their visibility.
Is brachioplasty right for you? There’s only one way to find out. Make an appointment at one of our Pittsburgh area offices by calling 724-683-7581. Then, come in for your free consultation. One of our expert plastic surgeons will meet with you and discuss your appearance goals and which procedures are right for you.