What is an arm lift?

Also known as brachioplasty, an arm lift reshapes the under portion of the upper arm, from the underarm region to the elbow.

An arm lift procedure can:

• · Reduce excess sagging skin that droops downward
• · Tighten and smooth the underlying supportive tissue that defines the shape of the upper arm
• · Reduce localized pockets of fat in the upper arm region

What you should know before considering arm lift surgery

Not everyone is a candidate for arm lift surgery. Only the following individuals will be considered:

• · Adults with significant upper arm skin laxity
• · Adults of any age whose weight is relatively stable and who are not significantly overweight
• · Healthy individuals without medical conditions that impair healing or increase risk of surgery
• · Healthy individuals without medical conditions that impair healing or increase risk of surgery
• · Individuals with a positive outlook and realistic expectations

Be prepared to discuss:

• · Your surgical goals
• · Medical conditions, drug allergies and medical treatments
• · Current medications, vitamins, herbal supplements, alcohol, tobacco and drug use
• · Previous surgeries

Your surgeon will also:

• · Evaluate your general health status and any pre-existing health conditions or risk factors
• · Take photographs
• · Discuss your options
• · Discuss likely outcomes of arm lift surgery and any risks or potential complications

Important facts about the safety and risks of brachioplasty

The decision to have arm lift surgery is extremely personal and you’ll have to decide if the benefits will achieve your goals and if the risks and potential complications are acceptable.

The risks include:

• · Unfavourable scarring
• · Bleeding (hematoma)
• · Infection
• · Fluid accumulation
• · Anaesthesia risks
• · Poor wound healing
• · Skin loss
• · Blood clots
• · Numbness or other changes in skin sensation
• · Skin discoloration and/or prolonged swelling
• · Asymmetry
• · Major wound separation
• · Fatty tissue found deep in the skin might die (fat necrosis)
• · Damage to deeper structures such as nerves, blood vessels, muscles, and lungs
• · Pain, which may persist
• · Deep vein thrombosis, cardiac and pulmonary complications
• · Sutures may spontaneously surface through the skin, become visible or produce irritation that require removal
• · Possibility of revision surgery

These risks and others will be fully discussed prior to your consent. It is important that you address all your questions directly with your plastic surgeon.

Be sure to ask questions:

It’s very important to ask your plastic surgeon questions about your arm lift procedure. It’s natural to feel some anxiety, whether it’s excitement for your anticipated new look or a bit of preoperative stress. Don’t be shy about discussing these feelings with your plastic surgeon.