Brachioplasty
What is brachioplasty?
Brachioplasty is a surgical method used to reshape the upper arms by reducing their circumference through the removal of excess loose skin and subcutaneous tissue.
There are several reasons why patients choose brachioplasty. Many individuals feel self-conscious about the appearance of their arms, leading them to always wear clothing with sleeves. Beyond the psychological impact, excess skin can cause irritation, redness, and even infections due to increased friction and sweating.
Brachioplasty is also performed for individuals whose skin has become loose in the upper arm area due to the aging process. Additionally, this procedure is often a second step after liposuction in the same area.
Who are ideal candidates for brachioplasty?
- Individuals who have experienced significant weight loss and whose skin has not naturally tightened
- Those who feel self-conscious about loose skin on their upper arms
- People with sagging upper arm skin due to the natural aging process
What preparation is needed for brachioplasty?
All preoperative preparations are conducted at our clinic and are included in the price. These include laboratory tests such as a complete blood count, basic biochemistry, coagulation factors, blood group, and Rh factor.
It also includes:
- Internal medicine and cardiology evaluation with ECG
- Chest X-ray with a radiologist’s report
- Clinical evaluation by an anesthesiologist
You will need to stop taking aspirin, vitamin C, and other supplements at least seven days before the procedure.
It is important to refrain from consuming any food or drinks for a minimum of 12 hours before the scheduled surgery. You must remove any nail polish or gel polish from your fingernails, as well as completely remove makeup, piercings, and jewelry. Avoid applying body lotion for 4–6 hours before the procedure. Depilation of the armpits and upper arms is required before the surgery.
You should bring personal hygiene items, a photo ID (ID card or passport), complete medical documentation, and any medications that are part of your chronic therapy.
How is brachioplasty performed?
Before scheduling brachioplasty, it is essential to have a stable body weight and no plans for further weight loss. The process begins with a consultation with the surgeon who will perform the procedure. During this consultation, you will explain the issues you are experiencing, and the surgeon will mark the areas of skin to be removed. The surgeon will explain the procedure in detail and discuss the results you can expect. Your arms will also be photographed for comparison before and after surgery.
Brachioplasty is performed under general anesthesia. Incisions are made in the armpit area and/or along the inner side of the upper arm, following the previously marked lines. Excess skin and subcutaneous fat are then removed. The scar is hidden along the inner side of the arm, and after a few months, it will fade and become practically invisible.
Depending on the scope of the surgery, the procedure typically lasts between 1.5 and 2 hours. To improve circulation and shorten recovery time, patients wear an arm compression garment starting on the day of surgery and continue for the next month.
In most cases, patients can return home within a few hours to continue their recovery. The results are immediately visible, but the full effect is achieved once swelling and bruising subside.
What is recovery like after brachioplasty?
After brachioplasty, swelling and bruising may occur but typically subside completely within two weeks. If mild tingling or pain in the arms arises, prescribed pain medication can help alleviate discomfort. Stitches are removed between the 10th and 14th day, by which time swelling and bruising will have resolved, revealing the final results.
Scars should not be exposed to sunlight or tanning beds. If you are in the sun, cover the scars with adhesive strips or apply a high-SPF sunscreen (SPF 30–50+).
For the first 24 hours after surgery, avoid applying deodorant under your arms. Use spray deodorant for the next two weeks. Shaving underarm hair can be resumed two weeks post-surgery.
You can return to work after one week if your job does not involve heavy physical activity.
Exercising, including weightlifting at the gym, can be resumed 4–6 weeks after the procedure.
How long do the results of brachioplasty last?
When brachioplasty is performed by an experienced surgeon, the results can last up to ten years, provided that you maintain a stable body weight and avoid significant weight gain or loss.
Are there risks associated with brachioplasty?
As with any surgery, there are risks of bleeding and infection. However, these risks are minimized when the procedure is performed in a completely sterile operating room by an experienced surgeon following strict protocols.
FAQ
How long do the results of brachioplasty last?
The results of brachioplasty can be long-lasting if you maintain a stable body weight.
Are there risks?
As with any surgical procedure, there are certain risks. However, these are minimized with strict sterilization standards and the expertise of our surgical team.
How long is the recovery?
Recovery from brachioplasty typically takes 2 to 4 weeks, during which it is essential to limit physical activity. In the first few days, you may experience discomfort, swelling, and bruising, which can be alleviated with prescribed pain medications. Wearing a compression garment helps reduce swelling and supports the new shape of the upper arms. Most patients can resume light daily activities after 2 weeks.
Who is brachioplasty for?
Brachioplasty is intended for individuals with excess skin and subcutaneous fat on their upper arms, often due to aging, significant weight loss, or genetic predisposition. Candidates should be in good overall health.
How is brachioplasty performed?
The procedure is performed under general anesthesia. An incision is made on the inner side of the upper arm, and excess skin and fat are removed. Liposuction may be combined for enhanced results.
How long does the procedure take?
The surgery typically lasts 1–2 hours, depending on the extent of the procedure and the technique used.
Are the results of brachioplasty permanent?
Yes, the results are long-lasting. However, maintaining a stable body weight and a healthy lifestyle is crucial to preserving the arm contours.
Does brachioplasty leave scars?
The resulting scars are minimally visible, as the incisions are placed on the inner side of the upper arm or in the armpit area. Over time, they fade and become less noticeable.
When can I return to daily activities?
Most patients can resume light activities within 7–10 days and return to more intense physical activities after four weeks.
