Brachioplasty (Arm)

What is an Brachioplasty?

Case #8897

The only way to properly address sagging skin and excess fat of the upper arm is through an arm lift also known as a brachioplasty. This is done through an incision made along the inside or back of the upper arm.

What are the benefits of a brachioplasty?

The brachioplasty procedure helps to tighten the skin of the upper arm around the surrounding bicep and triceps muscles to create a more toned appearance.

 

 

Am I a good candidate for a brachioplasty?

In general, the ideal candidate for a brachioplasty is someone who is in good overall health and is unhappy with the sagging appearance of their upper arms. In addition, if these fat deposits and loose skin do not respond to diet and exercise, this procedure may be right for you.

There are multiple factors that can cause the upper arm to develop sagging. One of the more common reasons is significant weight fluctuations. A brachioplasty is the only procedure that can properly address this issue.

It is also important to note that the results of your brachioplasty can be jeopardized if you gain a significant amount of weight after your procedure. Maintaining a consistent diet and exercise routine after your procedure is incredibly beneficial for results and general health.

 

How is a brachioplasty performed?

An incision is made along the inner arm and typically extends from elbow to armpit. Occasionally, the incision extends into the armpit if there is excess skin there as well. In addition, liposuction is sometimes also used during this procedure to decrease the amount of fat before removing the skin. Once ready to remove skin, the surgeon then lifts the upper arm skin and fat off of the underlying muscles. The excess skin and fat are then wrapped around the underlying muscles and the excess is removed. Drains are placed to remove any fluid that would otherwise build up. The incisions are closed and then a wrap or compression dressing is placed.

What is brachioplasty recovery like?

The procedure is typically done in our Ambulatory Surgical Center and patients go home the same day of their surgery. We will usually see our patients the next day in the office to make sure there are no immediate issues. The drains will likely be removed at the first post-operative visit. You will be given pain medication and anti-inflammatory medication to help you with post-operative pain. Typically, 3 weeks after the surgery you will feel relatively “normal”, but it will still be too soon to resume strenuous activity or exercise. We usually ask you to wait until you are closer to 4-6 weeks out from surgery before you resume them.

 

 

What will the scarring look like?

Brachioplasty produces a permanent scar, but the scar will likely be located on the inside of the upper arm. With time, the scar should lighten and become less visible.

Will insurance cover my brachioplasty?

Unfortunately, it is highly unlikely that insurance will cover a brachioplasty. This is typically considered a cosmetic procedure.

 

 

Are there good nonsurgical options for brachioplasty?

In short, not really. There are non-surgical treatments we offer that can be done to address unwanted fat in the abdomen, such as CoolSculpting and Vanquish, but these treatments do not address loose skin.

Why should I have a brachioplasty performed at Samra Plastic Surgery?

At Samra Plastic Surgery, we are highly skilled when it comes to body-contouring procedures like a brachioplasty. We have provided numerous people in the Monmouth, Middlesex and Union County areas with outstanding results.

 

Contact us to set up a personal or virtual consultation today.