Brachioplasty
With age, obesity, major weight fluctuations – weight loss and heredity are the main factors in sagging arms (braces), presenting the characteristic image of the hammock-like effect or bat wings. Physical exercise is not enough to improve their image. Many women avoid exposing their arms to public view, causing a loss of self-confidence and seeking the solution in plastic surgery.
In cases of young people with satisfactory skin tone, minor skin laxity and excess fat, high-definition liposuction (HD liposuction) gives excellent results. A special cannula is inserted through a small 2mm hole, which has an ultrasound head at its tip, causing skin tightening. In this way, incisions in the arm and armpit are completely avoided.
In cases of moderate skin laxity, the most common incision is the one hidden inside the armpit and includes a combination of mini brachioplasty and high-definition liposuction (HD liposuction).
In cases of extensive skin laxity, the removal of loose skin and excess fat is done through a longitudinal incision on the inner part of the arm. The incision, although inconspicuous in hand movements over time, is more visible than any other cosmetic procedure and must be agreed upon preoperatively with the patient.
It is common for the sagging of the arms after significant weight loss or obesity treatment procedures to coexist with sagging in the abdomen, thighs, breasts, and chest, so a comprehensive treatment should be recommended with a combination of abdominoplasty, thigh lift, breast lift, and gynecomastia treatment procedures in one or even two surgical sessions, if required.
The patient is discharged the same day or the next day in combined procedures wearing an elastic bandage, following the postoperative instructions at home. The use of compression garments-sleeves for 3-4 weeks helps in faster absorption of edema. The elevated position of the upper extremities accelerates healing. The sutures are not removed as they are absorbed on their own.
Although they occur rarely, they include inflammation, hematoma, seroma, sensory disturbance in the area, wound dehiscence (especially in the armpit), and hypertrophic scars, which are treated following the doctor’s instructions.
From the very next day, the patient can resume her daily activities. There is mild swelling which subsides in 10-14 days. Return to social activities and work after 7 days. For 2 weeks, it will be good to avoid lifting weights and straining the upper extremities.
Physical exercise is allowed after 4 weeks.
The results of brachioplasty are immediately visible and permanent.
Forever restoring sagging skin and excess fat on the inner surface of the arm, the contour and symmetry of the arms. Increasing self-confidence.
