Brachioplasty (Arm Lift)

As well as this, weight gain and loss can have a noticeable impact on skin laxity on the arms, especially in the case of massive weight loss.

Arm lift surgery addresses these issues by removing the hanging portion of excess tissue from the upper arms. This creates a tighter appearance and improves the arms’ contours. Since the procedure does not address the underlying muscles, it is usually ideal for patients who are already relatively fit and healthy. Dr Jeremy Richardson ensures each patient receives care appropriate for their health and body goals.

What to Expect During Your Brachioplasty Consultation

Before your arm lift surgery, it is important to discuss your concerns with a professional in order to determine if you are a suitable candidate. Generally, you are a good candidate if you are at a stable and healthy weight and do not have health conditions that would interfere with your post-op healing. Suitable patients should also quit smoking several weeks before and after surgery in order to help their bodies heal.

Dr Richardson will ask you about your health, aesthetic concerns, and what you expect to get out of surgery. He will then explain the process of surgery, and you will be able to ask any further questions about the procedure.

The Procedure

Arm lift surgery is generally performed in a hospital with a general anaesthetic. Patients can expect the procedure to take anywhere between two and four hours. However, this can vary based on your personal requirements.

The type of incision will depend on several factors, including how much excess tissue needs to be removed. In most cases, Dr Richardson will place the incision at the back of the arm, from the armpit down to the elbow, being careful to place scars where they are most discreet. Once the required incisions have been made, Dr Richardson will remove the excess skin and reshape the underlying tissue. Finally, he will close the incisions with sutures and apply bandages to your arms, giving you a tighter and more ideal upper-arm contour.

Cost of Arm Lift Surgery

Arm lift fees can be different for each patient, depending on their health, needs, and goals. When outlining the fees for your arm lift, we must consider the surgeon, hospital, and anaesthetist fees, as well as aftercare costs, such as medication. As well as this, the extent and duration of your surgery can also have an impact. We will be able to give you a clearer idea of your overall fees once we have discussed the details of your procedure.

Aftercare

Straight after surgery, you will likely need to spend several hours in the hospital to begin your recovery. Some patients may need an overnight stay. We can aid you in managing any pain and discomfort with pain medicine. Since you will not be able to drive, you should have someone you trust drive you home.

The recovery phase is important after any surgery. You will be sent home with instructions on how to care for your incision sites at home. This will include things such as wearing support garments, reducing your physical activity, and taking time off work to rest. It may also include advice such as:

• Take prescription painkillers
• Get plenty of rest and reduce your movement
• Eat a healthy diet and drink water
• Avoid smoking, since this can increase risks
• Keep your incisions clean and dry
• Do not exercise for at least six weeks
• Advise Dr Richardson if you notice any healing issues

Patients can generally expect:

• Some initial discomfort after surgery
• Reduced swelling and bruising after one to two weeks
• Return to work after one to two weeks, depending on whether your work involves strenuous movement
• Wear support garments for six weeks
• Return to exercise after six to eight weeks

Risks and Complications

Although complications are rare, there are still some risks to be aware of. Researching the risks of your desired surgery will help you manage expectations and make an informed decision. Arm lift surgery can include risks such as:

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Poor scarring
• Asymmetry
• Slow healing
• Ongoing pain
• Damage to underlying tissues
• Further surgery

It is important to follow the advice of Dr Richardson during recovery. Taking good care of your body during the healing process will reduce risks and help you achieve a good result.