Body
Arm Lift
An upper arm lift, also known as brachioplasty, is a cosmetic procedure that aims to reshape the upper arm, eliminating excess fat and tightening loose skin to improve the appearance of what is commonly referred to as the “batwing.” This procedure is often combined with liposuction for optimal results.
How is an Arm Lift Performed?
Upper Arm Lift, also known as brachioplasty, is recommended if you have excess skin and fat beneath your arms. In minor cases, liposuction may be sufficient to achieve desired results. In more significant cases, surgical removal of loose arm skin will be necessary.
The following are variations of brachioplasty:
Why get an upper arm lift?
Why get an upper arm lift?
- Limited Incision Brachioplasty: This option is suitable if excess skin is only present in the armpit area. Dr. Diaz will make an incision beneath your armpit, tucking and securing the excess skin.
- Standard Brachioplasty: If you have "bat wings" from your armpit to your elbow, Dr. Diaz will make an incision along the back of the arm, from the armpit to the elbow, to remove the hanging skin.
- Extended Brachioplasty: This variation is recommended for patients who have experienced massive weight loss. Dr. Diaz will make an incision from the elbow to the armpit, extending it along the upper chest wall to remove loose skin and fatty tissue under the arm and along the chest wall.
Expectations after Arm Lift and Recovery.
Please note that individual healing may vary. For further information, consult with Dr. Diaz.
- Avoid activities raising blood pressure and causing bleeding at the operative site.
- Recommended exercise: walking.
- Avoid stressing the surgical area for 4 weeks.
- Avoid excessive force, abrasion, and motion on incisions.
- Elevate arms with 2 or 3 pillows while sleeping to reduce inflammation and tension on incision lines.
- Surgeon may remove dressings and wraps within 5 days.
- Shower and pat incisions dry afterward.
- Start wearing an arm compression garment.
- Arm swelling may persist.
- Keep arms elevated to speed up recovery.
- Walking, stretching, and gentle arm and leg movements while sitting reduce swelling and clotting.
- Stop any activity if pain or pulling sensation is felt in the incision area.
- Begin cardiovascular activities like stationary biking or brisk walking.
- Avoid heavy lifting, contact sports, and jogging for up to 6 weeks.
- By the 6-week mark, resume normal activity level.
- Scars will be firm and pink for about 6 weeks.
- It takes 9-12 months for arm scars to flatten and lighten in color.
Not sure which treatment is right for you?
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