When you age, the upper arm skin becomes loose and flabby. This also commonly occurs with massive weight loss. A brachioplasty (also known as arm lift), is a surgical procedure to reduce the circumference of the upper arm by removing and tightening the loose skin. Dr. Michelle Hardaway may also suggest that liposuction be used to remove the excess fat deposits. Brachioplasty and liposuction procedures can be done together or individually to improve the “Bat Wing” look.
During a brachioplasty surgery underlying supportive tissue is tightened and reshaped with internal sutures, and the excess skin is removed and smoothed over to contour your arm. Your incisions will be closed with absorbable sutures, or stitches that will be removed within one to two weeks following surgery. The smoother, tighter contours that result from brachioplasty are apparent almost immediately following the procedure, although initial results may be somewhat obscured by swelling and bruising. Your new, shapely and toned upper arm is dramatically improved both in appearance and feel. A brachioplasty will improve the appearance of the upper arm and will require a scar that can extend from the arm pit to the elbow. These scars usually heal well after a period of wearing a compression garment. Various scar treatments may be suggested if you have a history of thick scars. Liposuction will require several very small incisions that can also be indistinguishable once healed.
Although the decision to have arm lift surgery is extremely personal, you will have to decide if the benefits will achieve your goals and if the risks and potential complications are acceptable. However, carefully following Dr. Hardaway’s post operative instructions greatly reduces the possibility of risk and complication following surgery. Dr. Hardaway will address any concerns you may have during your personalized consultation. Brachioplasty is usually performed on an outpatient basis at our surgical suite which is fully accredited the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities (AAAASF), using the latest equipment available.
If you have found you are avoiding short sleeves or sleeveless outfits because of your arms, it is now time to contact our office to set up a personalized consultation with Dr. Hardaway. She can confirm if you are a good candidate for this procedure. Call our office today!