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Arm Lift (Brachioplasty)

Technically called Brachioplasty surgery, those who desire Arms Lifts are patients who have developed saggy, baggy upper arms due to the gravitational effects of age or significant weight loss. Out of a desire to wear sleeveless shirts again and not have their "bat wings" show, patients turn to doctors such as Orange County plastic surgeon Dr. Smith. If you are a Huntington Beach, Riverside or Irvine arm lift candidate, the best way to learn about your unique options for brachioplasty is to request a FREE surgical consultation with Dr. Smith. Or call our Irvine plastic surgery office at 949.242.0851 or 951.817.7049 in Corona to schedule your appointment.

Indications

This operation is done to tighten the loose skin of the upper arm. It does not change the texture of the skin but by stretching it, the excess skin is removed and the contour is improved. Typical candidates for surgery are patients with loose hanging skin on the bottom of the arm either due to age or weight loss.

The Procedure

The method of surgery is not complicated. The excess skin is marked and then removed. In some patients the fascia or deep layer is held in place with special stitches attached to the fascia of the arm pit or axilla. The incision is placed on the under surface of the arm beginning above the elbow in mast cases. The incision extends up to the axilla and sometimes crosses down behind the pectoral fold. Often, some fat is removed with liposuction at the same time that the skin excision is perfomed. The operation is done under either intravenous sedation (twilight sleep) or general anesthetic (you are asleep). You can choose, but most patients are more comfortable when they are asleep for surgery. Surgery is performed as an outpatient procedure in most cases and may be combined with other procedures.

Complications

All operations have some risk. The risks of surgery are divided into two groups. First, those that can be seen in all operations and second those that are unique or special for this operation. In the first group, the main risks are swelling, bruising, bleeding, infection, a scar and numbness or change in feeling. The main specific problem for this operation is the long and sometimes heavy scar.

Postoperative Care

The recovery takes one to two weeks. Most people are back to work within a week or two. Extensive use of the arms is restricted during this time.

If you have more questions about brachioplasty in Orange County or if you're ready to talk to Dr. Smith you can easily request your FREE surgical consultation online or call 949.242.0851 in Irvine or 951.817.7049 in Corona.