Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Suitability for arm lift surgery and individual outcomes can only be assessed by a qualified healthcare professional.
An arm lift is a serious surgical procedure, also known as brachioplasty, and it involves altering the shape and contour of the upper arms. But what does this involve? And if you are considering arm lift surgery, what do you need to know?
What is an arm lift?
An arm lift, or brachioplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and tissue from the upper arm. As such, it is sometimes considered following significant weight loss, or when changes in skin elasticity have resulted in loose skin around the upper arms.
The amount of skin and tissue involved will vary from person to person, as will the suitability for the surgery. This is why a consultation with a qualified surgeon who is registered with the General Medical Council is important.
How is arm lift surgery performed?
Arm lift surgery is usually carried out under general anaesthetic, although the appropriate anaesthetic approach will depend on the individual procedure and your healthcare team’s assessment. The exact technique used will also differ between individuals.
Generally, the surgeon will make an incision on the arm, with its position and length depending on how much excess skin will need to be removed. Once this is removed, the remaining tissue is then repositioned according to the surgical plan. The incision will be closed carefully at the end of the procedure.
Where are the incisions made?
The position of the incision depends largely on the amount and location of excess skin. For some patients, an incision may be placed around the armpit. But where more extensive skin removal is required, the incision may extend along the inner aspect of the upper arm.
During your consultation, your surgeon should explain where your proposed incision is likely to be and what this may mean for scarring.
What happens after surgery?
Following an arm lift, you will be monitored as you recover from the anaesthetic. Your arms may be covered with dressings, and you may be advised to wear a compression garment during part of your recovery. It is also common to experience:
Swelling
Bruising
Tenderness
Tightness around the treated area
Your healthcare team will provide instructions about wound care, medication, movement and follow-up appointments. You should be aware that recovery is gradual, differs between individuals, and you will usually need to limit strenuous activities while the tissues heal.
Will arm lift surgery leave scars?
Yes, scarring is an expected part of arm lift surgery because the procedure requires surgical incisions.
While your surgeon will generally aim to position the incision as discreetly as reasonably possible, the final appearance of scars cannot be guaranteed.
Scars can initially appear more prominent before gradually changing as they mature. Individual healing varies, and factors such as genetics, skin type and aftercare can influence their appearance.
During your consultation, you should have the opportunity to discuss the likely position and appearance of scars.
How long does recovery take?
Depending on the extent of your surgery and your individual circumstances, recovery times will vary, and you should follow the advice of your healthcare team.
You may need to take some time away from work and temporarily modify activities involving the arms. More strenuous exercise and heavy lifting are generally restricted during the early stages of healing. Your surgeon will provide personalised guidance about:
Returning to work
Driving
Exercise
Lifting
Wound care
Follow-up appointments
What are the potential risks?
Arm lift surgery is a serious surgical procedure and carries potential risks. These can include:
Infection
Bleeding
Delayed wound healing
Changes in skin sensation
Swelling
Scarring
Changes to the contour of the treated area
If you are thinking about having arm lift surgery, arranging a consultation with an appropriately qualified healthcare professional can help you decide whether the procedure is suitable for your circumstances. You can use this appointment to discuss your motivations and desired outcomes, understand the treatment in greater detail, including the risks, and have your questions answered.
Doctors providing cosmetic surgery in the UK are expected to follow the professional standards and guidance of the General Medical Council (GMC), and you should never feel under pressure to make an immediate decision and should take time to consider the information you receive.
In conclusion
Arm lift surgery, or brachioplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and tissue from the upper arms and reshapes the remaining tissue. If you are thinking about an arm lift, a consultation with a suitably qualified healthcare professional can help you understand whether the procedure may be appropriate for you and what you can realistically expect from treatment and recovery.