Brachioplasty (Arm Lift)

arm-lift-1If your upper arms have developed excess skin and fat, you might benefit from an arm lift (Brachioplasty). This surgical procedure can make the upper arms firm again. It is often performed on those who have undergone substantial weight loss, but it is also done for patients who have experienced sagging in this area due to the aging process.

Dr. Ledding has performed numerous arm lifts for his patients. No two patients are the same, however, so he will spend time with you during your initial consultation and examination to discuss your options and his recommended surgical plan for you.

Who is a Good Candidate for an Arm Lift?

If you have excess skin and fat hanging on the underside of the upper arms, you may be a good candidate for Brachioplasty, regardless of your age.

Is Brachioplasty an Outpatient Procedure?

Brachioplasty is usually performed as an outpatient procedure with the patient under general anesthesia. You can go home the same day, provided someone is available to drive you.

What Incisions Are Used For Brachioplasty?

Incisions must be as long as the excess skin that is to be removed. The incisions are made on the inside of the arm, however, where the scars are only noticeable when you lift your arm.

What Happens During Brachioplasty?

After the incisions are made, Dr. Ledding removes any excess skin to tighten the area. If there is also excess fat, he performs liposuction to remove that tissue before reshaping the upper arms and suturing the skin.

Liposuction involves inserting a cannula (small tube) that is attached to a suction device. The cannula is moved back and forth to break up the fat, which is then suctioned out.

What Happens Immediately After Brachioplasty?

After some time spent in the recovery room following your surgery, your incisions will be dressed with bandages. Most arm lift patients must wear a compression garment for six weeks. You will go home the same day with instructions for after-care and an appointment set for a couple of days later for your first follow-up exam.

When Can I Return to Work After an Arm Lift?

Most people take seven to 14 days off from work and resume exercise or sports activities in six weeks. If your occupation is physically demanding, you may need six weeks off work as well.

What Post-Operative Symptoms Can I Expect After Brachioplasty?

Your recovery will include some bruising, a feeling of tightness, and pain for a couple of weeks. You can take prescription or non-prescription medications to ease you through this period.

Swelling takes a bit longer to resolve, gradually improving over a period of weeks.

Drains are sometimes placed within the incisions temporarily to capture post-operative fluids. These will be removed in the office in a few days. The sutures usually dissolve on their own.

Are There Scars After Brachioplasty?

There are scars after Brachioplasty, but they are largely hidden on the underside of the arms. We will provide strategies for healing the scars as quickly as possible, and they will fade and become less prominent in the months following your surgery.

Contact our office for a consultation to discuss how Brachioplasty with Dr. Ledding can make your upper arms firmer.