The brachioplasty or arm lift is a plastic surgery technique that aims to remove excess fat from the inner side of the upper extremities and lift the sagging tissue, improving its appearance and restoring its shape and smoothness. This surgical technique is especially recommended for people who have had a significant weight loss.
Preparation for brachioplasty
First of all, the specialist evaluates the patient’s state of health and advises him/her about which surgical technique is best for his/her case according to the conditions of his/her body and the firmness of his/her skin.
Also, the consultation provides information on the preparation for surgery: fasting time, medication to avoid, antibiotic administration guidelines, among other aspects. Before the operation, it is important to be accompanied by a responsible adult to help you in the postoperative period.
Brachioplasty: what it consists of
The surgery is performed in a center, usually with hospital admission of between one and two days, and under general anesthesia, so it does not present any discomfort during the process. The incision is usually made on the inner side of the arms, although in some cases it must be made up to the armpit and lateral part of the thorax. In any case, it is always done in such a way that the scar is as inconspicuous as possible.
Through this incision, liposuction is performed to remove the fat and the excess skin is removed and sutured, bandaging and leaving drainage tubes for two or three days. The procedure usually lasts between two and three hours.
Brachioplasty postoperative period
After surgery, the patient may feel tired and have discomfort for a few days, so it is recommended to rest in bed, without tightening the sutures. In general, after a week you can lead a normal life, always avoiding excessive tension, and you can return to work in two weeks, depending on the job.
In two or three days the bandages and drains are removed. The sutures are removed in two weeks, and the strange sensations in the skin and swelling subside after about three weeks, although it takes a few weeks to give the arms a completely normal appearance.
Brachioplasty Results
The scars are hardened and pink for at least six weeks. Although this may last for a few months, they will progressively fade until they become very inconspicuous. This surgery achieves an improvement in the appearance of the upper extremities and in the patient’s self-esteem, since he/she is more self-confident.