Many patients wish to improve the shape of their upper arms because of having a considerable surplus of skin in the area. This can be as a result of major weight loss in younger patients. Flabby upper arms are most commonly caused by loose skin resulting from deposition of excess localized fat followed by weight loss. The skin aging process also leads to this condition in middle-aged and older patients as upper arm skin can become loose and flabby. This condition in extreme cases is also known as ‘Bat Wings’ arms.
FAQ'S
Q: How does surgery help persons with excess fat and skin in upper arms?
A: Large upper arms can be improved with liposuction alone if the amount of excess fat is moderate and if the skin tone is good as it contracts sufficiently following fat removal. But in patients with loose, poor skin quality upper arm skin, only surgical removal of excess skin or Arm lift can produce the desired improvement.
An arm lift is a surgery to remove loose skin and excess fat deposits in the upper arm area. An arm lift, also known as Brachioplasty, reduces excess skin and fat between the underarm and the elbow to reshapes the upper arm resulting in smoother contours and a more toned and proportionate appearance.
Q: How much time does Arm Lift surgery take and how is it planned?
A: The surgery takes between two to three hours. The area to be removed is marked with the patient standing up with arms at a right angle to accurately determine the correction required. The important points in this surgery are to position the incision of the surgery on the inner side of the upper arm and to ensure that the removal of the skin is carried out generously so that the entire area of upper-arm is tightened.
Q: What type of anesthesia is used for Arm lift surgery?
A: The surgery is usually performed under a combination of local anesthesia with sedation or under general anesthesia.
Q: How is Arm Lift surgery performed?
A: At the beginning of surgery, liposuction is done to contour the area. Elliptical incisions are made along the inner surface of the arm and excess tissue is removed. The remaining tissues are tightened and sutured into place. A small drain is placed under the skin to help prevent fluid collection.
Q: How is the recovery in the postoperative period?
A: Swelling peaks at 2 to 3 days following surgery and generally subsides in 4 to 6 weeks. Any strenuous exercises should be avoided for about 4 weeks and heavy lifting avoided for 6 weeks. Every patient must be informed of the possibility of thin long scar formation after this surgery based on healing and scar formation properties of skin. The scars are treated with ointment and silicone gel sheet.
