A popular option for tightening up your arms is a brachioplasty, also known as an arm lift. This cosmetic surgery procedure reduces excess skin and fat and smooths the underlying tissue to leave you with slimmer, more toned upper arms.
Over time, aging can cause the skin of your arms to sag. Genetics may also be a factor. Some people are left with sagging skin as a result of losing a significant amount of weight. An arm lift can correct this issue and make you look and feel better about yourself. Of course, there are things to think about when you’re considering this type of cosmetic surgery.
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How to Prepare for an Arm Lift
Certain steps can be taken to prepare for an arm lift to ensure that it goes smoothly and you’re at minimal risk of complications. For example, if you’re a smoker, you should quit.
Your doctor will give you an evaluation prior to your surgery to ensure that you’re in good overall health. You will also be able to ask questions and mention your concerns about the upcoming surgery. The doctor will also ensure that you don’t have an underlying medical condition that can make having arm lift surgery dangerous.
What Happens During Arm Lift Surgery?
Your doctor will make marks on your arm that signify where incisions will be made on the day of your surgery. One of the most common procedures involves incisions made on the inside or backs of the arms. Another option may be an incision in the armpit or one from the armpit to the top of the elbow.
You can choose either general or local anesthesia. The doctor will work along the marks on your arms and then tighten or reshape the tissue, pull the skin tautly over the tissue, and suture the wound closed.
If you have excess fat in your arms, liposuction may also be performed. In all, an arm lift is usually complete in around three hours.
You should have someone lined up to drive you home after your surgery and stay overnight to ensure that you’re OK through the night.
What are the Risks of Arm Lift Surgery?
Just like any surgery, an arm lift carries certain risks. The most common is pain and infection, but the following can also occur:
- Excessive bleeding
- Fatty tissue death
- Fluid buildup
- Nerve, blood vessel, or muscle damage
- Permanent scarring
In addition to the surgery itself, general anesthesia can also have some risks. They include the following:
- Confusion
- Death, which is rare
- Heart attack
- Pneumonia
- Stroke
How to Recover from an Arm Lift
After your surgery, your doctor may advise you to wear a compression garment to aid your recovery. You may also require a temporary tube in your arm to drain the buildup of blood or fluid after your surgery.
Your surgeon will also give you instructions on your aftercare. You must carefully follow them. The instructions should include how to properly care for your wounds, medications you should take and how to take them, potential warning signs, and when you should come in for follow-ups.
If you smoke, it’s essential to avoid smoking during your recovery period. Smoking can impede your healing process, increasing the risk of infection and permanent scarring.
After around two weeks, you should be able to return to work or school and perform certain low-level activities. After six weeks, you should be able to resume your normal daily routine. Speak with your doctor and inform them of any pain or issues that restrict movement after the beginning of your recovery time.
Schedule a Consultation
If you are located in the San Antonio, Texas area and are interested in getting an arm lift, contact New Image Plastic Surgery to schedule an initial consultation.