Commonly known as an arm lift, brachioplasty is a surgical procedure which tightens loose, sagging skin and removes excess fat deposits in the upper arm that develop with age or significant weight loss.
Candidates must be in good health, have no active diseases or serious, pre-existing medical conditions, and must have realistic expectations of the outcome of the surgery. In most cases, patients choose this procedure for cosmetic reasons, but in some patients sagging skin becomes so severe that the skin hangs down, creating what is called a “bat’s wing deformity.” This can restrict motion and interfere with the use of the arm. Patients considering brachioplasty should be aware that a significant scar will be present from the elbow to the armpit, and should not have the operation unless they feel comfortable with the scar or can wear clothes that hide it. This may involve a change of clothing styles, but in most cases the benefit of removing excess skin outweighs this issue.
NOTE: You may not be a candidate for surgery if you smoke, have recently quit smoking, or if you are exposed to second-hand smoke. Primary and secondary smoking decreases blood flow to the body’s tissues. This can result in prolonged wound healing, skin loss, infection, increased scarring, and a number of other complications depending on the kind of procedure performed.
First, the patient stands or sits while an area of excess skin is marked. This excess skin is then removed. The area removed is usually shaped like either an ellipse or a triangle. Some fat is left to cover and protect the nerves and arteries, but liposuction is sometimes performed to provide a smooth result. After the excess fat and skin are removed the wound is sutured closed. Occasionally, a drain may be used.
In some cases your plastic surgeon may suggest liposuction in conjunction with an arm lift to remove excess fat in the upper arms. Liposuction alone will not improve the condition of loose skin.
You will be given specific instructions on how to prepare for your surgery. A pre-operative information packet will be provided that explains everything you should do and know before your surgery date. Your surgeon will instruct you on how to prepare for surgery, including guidelines on eating and drinking, smoking, and which vitamins and medications should be taken or avoided. You should arrange for someone to drive you home after your surgery, whether your surgery is done on an outpatient or inpatient basis. You may also want to make arrangements for someone to help you out for a day or two after you leave the hospital.
Dr. Roesner has surgical privileges at North Suburban Medical Center, Rose Medical Center as well as St. Anthony Hospital. The majority of these procedures are completed on an out-patient basis; however, in cases where additional procedures are performed – you may expect an overnight stay.
You’ll remain comfortable throughout the entire procedure. In most cases, general anesthetic is used so that you will sleep throughout the procedure.
It is very important that you follow your surgeon’s instructions. This will promote healing and improve progress towards your new physical appearance. Also, it is important that you attend all scheduled follow-up appointments so that your surgeon can assess your long-term results and answer any questions or concerns you may have.
