Arm lift, medically known as brachioplasty, is an aesthetic surgery procedure through which excess skin and, when necessary, excess fatty tissue are removed from the upper arms, between the armpit and the elbow.

Brachioplasty is not a weight loss method, but a body contouring procedure designed to improve the shape of the arms.

The intervention corrects the appearance commonly known as “bat wings”, the folds of loose skin that hang in an unaesthetic way and cannot be corrected through diet or physical exercise.

When is arm lift recommended?

Arm lift is recommended for patients who present:

• Excess skin at the level of the arms
• Skin laxity after significant weight loss
• Loose skin caused by aging
• Disproportion between the volume of the arms and the rest of the body
• Aesthetic or psychological discomfort related to the appearance of the arms

In order for the intervention to be performed, the patient should have a stable weight close to the optimal one, be in good general health, not suffer from severe uncontrolled conditions, not smoke or be willing to temporarily stop smoking, have realistic expectations, and understand that the intervention involves permanent scars, strategically placed on the inner side of the arm.

When is liposuction enough?

If the excess is only fatty tissue and the skin is still elastic, liposuction alone may be considered.

If skin laxity is also present, brachioplasty becomes the optimal solution.

Types of brachioplasty

There are several types of brachioplasty that can be performed depending on the degree of excess skin.

1. Mini-brachioplasty

A limited incision is made at the level of the armpit and is indicated for minor excess skin.

2. Standard brachioplasty

An incision is made on the inner side of the arm, from the armpit toward the elbow, and is indicated for correcting moderate or severe excess.

3. Extended brachioplasty

An incision may continue toward the lateral side of the chest and is recommended in cases with massive weight loss.

The procedure may be associated with liposuction for a more harmonious contour.

Preoperative consultation

During the preoperative consultation, the plastic surgeon will evaluate the quality of the skin, the amount of excess skin and fat, the medical history and current medication, and lifestyle, including smoking.

Preoperative tests are recommended, along with stopping medications that may increase the risk of bleeding.

How the procedure is performed

The intervention is usually performed under general anesthesia.

In selected cases, local anesthesia with sedation may be used.

The incisions are made according to the established plan, and the excess skin is removed. If necessary, excess fat is removed through liposuction.

The tissues are repositioned and anchored to support the new contour, and the incisions are closed in several layers to reduce tension on the skin and to encourage a fine scar.

The duration of the intervention is approximately 1.5 to 3 hours.

Recovery

After surgery, temporary adverse side effects may appear, such as:

• Swelling and bruising
• A feeling of tension
• Moderate discomfort controlled with medication

Postoperatively, it is recommended to wear compression sleeves for 4 to 6 weeks, avoid lifting weights and intense effort for 4 to 6 weeks, keep the arms slightly elevated during the first few days, and attend regular postoperative check-ups.

Returning to professional activities is possible, on average, after 10 to 14 days, depending on the nature of the work.

The scars are initially firm and pink, gradually fading over 6 to 12 months.

Results

The results are long-lasting, provided that a stable weight is maintained.

Possible risks

As with any surgical intervention, brachioplasty may involve the appearance of:

• Seroma
• Hematoma
• Infection
• Hypertrophic scars
• Temporary sensitivity changes
• Asymmetry

Consultation at Swan Clinic

Arm lift is an effective body contouring procedure, addressed to patients who want a harmonious and firm arm contour.

Schedule a consultation at Swan Clinic and find out everything you need to know about brachioplasty.