Various techniques can be used to shape the upper arm. Communion people may refer to this a bat wing” Liposuction alone can improve contour, but in some cases, excess skin removal may be necessary. There are two main types of brachioplasty:

• Traditional Arm Lift:
  • Involves an incision running from the armpit to the elbow along the length of the upper arm.
  • The incision is strategically placed to be concealed when arms are at
  • May include liposuction to reduce overall arm
  • Followed by removal of excess, hanging
• Short Incision Arm Lift:
  • Uses a shorter incision near the
  • Focuses on “tucking and lifting” loose skin to prevent it from
• Extended Inverted L Arm Lift
  • The incision is extended to address the loss of skin elsasty in the laster chest area.

For individuals who have undergone significant weight loss, especially through post-bariatric surgery, more extensive excision may be required.

Good Candidates:

A good candidate for the brachioplasty is someone with pronounced loose and hanging tissue of the upper arm. This tissue has been commonly referred to as “Bat Wings” or “Arm Hammocks”. As we age the loss of skin tone, elasticity and changes in weighty can make this area sag and look out of proportion. Especially in those patients who have lost significant weight. The “short scar” brachioplasty is appropriate for patients with less significant hanging skin. Your cosmetic surgeon can help you determine which procedure is right for you.

Aftercare:

The upper arm incisions will likely have couples sutures and either tape or surgical glue. A compression garment will be worn for several weeks after surgery. This typically looks like a jacket with tight sleeves.

Recovery:

Most patients will receive antibiotics and pain medication for their revery after surgery. The compression garment is important and helps support the surgical area to avid formation of fluid or hematoma. It can be worn under normal clothing.

There will be limits to full range of motion of the arms during the early days after the procedure. It is suggested that you have someone available to help after surgery for a few days. Depending on the type of work you do, one to three weeks of recovery time is recommended. You may not be back to full activities for six weeks.

Possible Complications:

As with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of bleeding, infection, poor wound healing and visible scarring. Your cosmetic surgeon can suggest available treatments to improve your healing and final scar results. Fluid accumulation (seroma), numbness or other sensation changes, and damage to deeper structures (like nerves, vessels or muscles) are less likely but may occur. Other risks associated with anesthesia and any health conditions you may have will be discussed with your doctor.