Brachioplasty (Arm Lift) in Arizona

Brachioplasty surgery is designed to remove excess skin and fat from the upper arm. The procedure is sometimes referred to as an arm lift. Many patients who have lost large amounts of weight desire this procedure, but in some patients who have never been heavy, full upper arms is an undesired familial trait. There are different types of arm lifts, and after your Dr. Flint or your Scottsdale plastic surgeon examines you, she will determine which type will accomplish the goals you have.
In a small percentage of patients, the undesired fullness in the upper arms is due to a regional deposit of excess fat, without significant amounts of excess skin. In these patients, liposuction alone may provide an excellent result and only leave very short scars behind. A larger percentage of patients also have excess skin. If the excess skin is confined to the upper third of the arm, near the armpit, the incision can be confined to the armpit. In massive weight loss patients, the excess skin and fatty tissue generally extends from the armpit to the elbow. In these patients, a combination procedure including liposuction, and an incision from the armpit to the elbow is necessary for the best result. The scar runs along the inner surface of the arm so it is not visible with the arms down at the side.
These procedures are performed under general anesthesia and take between one and three hours to complete. The patient is discharged to home ninety minutes after the procedure is completed. Discomfort is generally mild. Compression wraps are worn on the arms for three weeks to minimize swelling. No lifting or exercise is allowed for the first three weeks. Many patients return to work after one week.
Complications of this procedure are uncommon; however patients who smoke are at much higher risk for healing problems. In those who have succeeded at massive weight loss, the skin elasticity is generally poor and occasionally a secondary tightening procedure will need to be done approximately six months after the first to obtain the best result. Bleeding and infection are very rare. Numbness of the upper inner arm may occur but is generally temporary. The upper inner arm can form thick raised scars in a certain number of individuals. Post-operative scar care is important and includes scar massage, and wearing a stick on silicone gel sheeting bandage at night to help the scar fade faster and remain flat.
It is common for patients to combine breast augmentations and lifts with this procedure, especially following massive weight loss, and it is perfectly safe to do so. It is not advisable to combine this procedure with a tummy tuck or thigh lifts, as recovery can be difficult when both the abdomen and arms are sore, or when all four extremities are involved in recovery.
The vast majority of patients that undergo this procedure are exceedingly pleased with their results. Lax upper inner arm skin does not respond to diet or exercise, and this simple procedure can provide much nicer contours in this stubborn area. If you are self-conscious about the appearance of your arms, let Dr. Flint suggest a procedure that will allow you to be less inhibited and have more choices in clothing. The recovery from arm lifting procedures is brief and the results are forever.

Visit www.pattiflintmd.com to learn more about this procedure and other cosmetic procedures offered by Dr. Flint at her Scottsdale and Mesa locations.