Brachioplasty is a surgical procedure to remove excess skin and fat from the inner surface of the upper arm. It is performed under general anaesthetic and takes about one hour. It can be done as a day case or an overnight stay. It leaves a long scar on the inner surface of the arms and these will need to be supported with a compression garment during the healing period. Recovery takes 2 to 4 weeks and you need to limit your upper arm mobility to afford the best chance of cosmetically acceptable scars. We will need to see you weekly for the first few weeks. Bruising and swelling will occur and can last for up to 6 weeks. Other risks include bleeding, infection, changes in sensation, asymmetry, poor scars and skin loss.
People normally undergo brachioplasty after weight loss as they find the skin in the area can sag, rub and be cosmetically unsightly. It can also make it difficult to fit into clothes even after weight-loss.
Brachioplasty can leave visible scars and you must appreciate this. It is also a good idea to achieve your target weight before embarking on this type of surgery. Losing weight following brachioplasty can have a negative effect on the cosmetic outcome. Being overweight and smoking can increase the complications from plastic surgery. It may be wise to delay the operation until smoking has stopped and a portion of excess weight loss.
Aspirin increases the risk of bleeding by preventing blood clotting. If you are taking aspirin you will have to stop this for at least 10 days before the procedure.
Removing excess skin and fat from the inner surface of the upper arm. Risks include bleeding, infection, scarring, change in sensation and asymmetry. Can be a day case or overnight stay in hospital with recovery taking 4-6 weeks