Brachioplasty is the medical term made with the use of the Greek word brachion, which means arm. The purpose of brachioplasty is the correction of the sagging arm fat or arm skin or arm skin and fat together. These techniques can effectively eliminate unattractive arms.
Today advances in liposuction have allowed us to provide excellent contouring for most patients many times without skin excision. Liposuction alone is indicated for enormous arm volume disharmonious with the chest and the rest of the upper extremities. One or two small incisions are made in the arm, allowing the surgeon to sculpt the desired contour. We perform this type of surgery usually under local anaesthesia after calming medication has been given. As a result of this technique skin quality is unchanged.
If the skin and fatty tissue are loose and hanging, removal is recommended. The incision is placed under the arm and it is as long as the area where it is hanging. Sometimes the operation is extended to the axilla or the side of the chest to solve severe problems of looseness.
There have been many reports about scaring following this procedure, however in our hands the results are successful and our patients are happy with inconspicuous scars.
After any brachioplasty has been done, a special pressure garment must be worn for 15-20 days. During this time any swelling or bruising will gradually diminish.
Hospitalization is usually not required and if so, this is for one day. Patients may return to light activities in a few days but must avoid strenuous activities for approximately 20 days.
