The Arm Lift, or Brachioplasty, is one of the work horses of post weight loss surgery procedures used to remove excess skin frequently left behind after massive weight loss.
Brachioplasty is both arm reduction and excess skin removal. Fat present beneath the skin is also removed during the procedure.
Indications for Arm Lifts
The primary indication for Brachioplasty is excessive upper arm skin laxity. This occurs most frequently in patients who have lost weight, though sometimes it is a familial trait.
Contraindications for Arm Lifts
Brachioplasty can be performed in larger arms, but it is preferable to lose extra weight prior to arm skin reduction surgery to maximize the results.
Brachioplasty is not appropriate for small collections of disproportionate fat. Liposuction is a much better choice. Mild skin laxity is also not an indication for Arm Lifts.
Prerequisites to Arm Lift Surgery
Good health and excellent control of pre-existing medical problems are the main prerequisites for any elective surgery, including an Arm Lift. Moreover, medications that can complicate surgery should be stopped. For example, blood thinners like aspirin and ibuprofen can increase the risk of excessive bleeding, and medications such as GLP-1 medications (Ozempic, Trulicity and Mounjaro) can increase the risk of aspiration pneumonia. Your Board Certified Plastic Surgeon will review any medications or supplements you are taking before surgery.
Arm Lift Techniques
Arm Lifts can remove excess skin for older patients also, but the better the elasticity, the better the results.
The primary method of Brachioplasty is direct excision of excess skin via a longitudinal incision extending from the inside of the elbow to the back of the armpit. This allows for maximal skin tightening and optimal scar placement.
Another variation is to place the scar in the bicipital groove, along the inside edge of the biceps muscle. I do not prefer this scar location as it is more easily seen.
A minor variation of an arm lift is the Mini-Brachioplasty. This uses a much shorter incision placed across the armpit. While the scar is shorter and better hidden, the amount of skin reduction is minimal and few patients are good candidates for mini arm lifts.
Brachioplasty Consultations
Every patient is different, so an in person consultation is needed to determine the best treatment option for you. Consult with a board certified plastic surgeon who can evaluate your arms, discuss your goals, and determine if you are a good candidate for an Arm Lift. In the San Francisco Bay Area call (925) 943-6353 and schedule your personalized consultation appointment, today.
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