Arm lift surgery, also known as Brachioplasty, is a great solution for patients looking for well-defined arms. Often, patients who recently lost a lot of weight or are simply looking for more tone definition, inquire about this procedure.
Procedure breakdown
Simply put, an arm lift procedure requires that your doctor make several incisions on the insides or backs of your arms. He or she will then tighten the tissue of your arms and pull your skin back over the incision area. The whole procedure can take several hours to complete.
Step #1: Your surgeon will administer anesthesia. This can be done through intravenous medication or general anesthesia, which you breathe in through a mask. This is done for your comfort during the procedure.
Step#2: Your surgeon will make the necessary incision. Incision length and pattern during arm lift surgery depend on the amount and location of excess skin to be removed.
Incisions are generally placed on the inside of the arm, or on the back of the arm, depending on the surgeon’s preference. These incisions may extend from the underarm to just above the elbow. Depending on your goals, incisions may be more limited.
Step #3: If necessary, excess fat may be directly excised or treated with liposuction. This helps the surgeon better access the supportive tissues and gives you a better tone and definition. He or she then tightens the underlying supportive tissue and reshapes it with internal sutures.
Step #4: The surgeon then smoothes the skin back over the new contour of your arm. He or she will close your incisions either with absorbable sutures or stitches that will be removed within one to two weeks following your arm lift.
Common FAQs
These frequently asked questions about arm lift surgery are general. Please note that each patient is unique. Therefore, direct any specific questions about your procedure to your doctor.
#1: What should I expect immediately following the procedure?
After the procedure, your surgeon will apply bandages. Additionally, you may also have to wear a compression garment, which helps to keep any swelling down. Because of the anesthesia and post-operative pain medication, you should plan to have someone else drive you home. The first few days of your recovery may be difficult. Someone should help take care of you during this time. Someone to grocery shop and help you prepare meals will be important. They may also need to check the incision drain if your surgeon gives you one. Finally, it’s important to drink plenty of fluids right after your surgery. Staying well hydrated will speed up recovery time. It’s equally important to eat a healthy and balanced diet.
#2: How long is the recovery period? Is it painful?
After your arm lift surgery, you should plan for recovery to take one to two weeks. However, it may take a few more weeks for the tissues in your arm to fully heal.
Arm lift surgery is major cosmetic surgery. As a result, you may experience some discomfort while recovering. The most common side effects reported during recovery include the following.
- Soreness
- Swelling
- Bruising.
The good news is that these side effects should lessen after the first few days. To help alleviate any discomfort, use pillows to keep the treated arms elevated. This helps to increase circulation and reduce swelling. Your doctor may prescribe pain medication if needed. You should also wear comfortable, loose clothing which is easy to take on and off. Choose a zip or button-up shirt rather than a pullover.
#3: Will there be any scarring?
It’s important to keep an eye on the surgery site for any changes. Any increased redness, drainage, or swelling should be reported to your doctor as soon as possible.
#4: When can I exercise again? When can I go back to work?
Exercise and work are often the two biggest concerns for arm surgery patients.
When it comes to your work, you should plan for at least one week off. It is normal for your arm and hand strength to be a little weak at first. This will subside. Remember to keep arm movement limited during the recovery period and listen to your doctor’s instructions to speed up your recovery.
Additionally, you’ll need to pause your exercise routine. Your doctor will recommend when you can begin any physical activity in your arms again. Most likely, it will be about a month before you can resume your regular exercise routine. When your doctor gives you permission, start out slow with a daily walk. Then, ease back into your normal fitness routine. Please note that you should only start strength training again when your doctor gives you the green light. This will help continue muscle growth and toning for your arms.
#5: Will insurance cover my arm lift surgery?
In most cases, insurance plans will not cover an arm lift procedure. However, if you are experiencing limited arm functionality or have an infection near a skinfold, there’s a chance that an exception can be made. Talk to your insurance provider for more information.
Dr. Anthony Berlet Can Help You
If you are considering arm lift surgery, choosing the right plastic surgeon is crucial. The best surgeon for this procedure will have the right experience and expertise and will help you better understand your options. You should feel as though the plastic surgeon answered all of your questions and you are confident in the cosmetic choices you make. Dr. Anthony Berlet helps patients tone their arms through this procedure and builds their confidence. For over 20 years, he has helped women in the northern New Jersey and New York City areas with these procedures. To learn more, contact us today!