Brachioplasty Surgery

Many people, especially women and older individuals, carry excess weight in their upper arms. While exercise can tone the muscle underneath, sometimes fatty deposits persist. One cosmetic surgery that has been developed to correct this condition is called brachioplasty. A brachioplasty, or upper arm lift, is a cosmetic procedure that specifically focuses on fat deposits in the brachial area or upper arm.

Upper Arm Lift Procedure

Because of its unique fat distribution, fat removal from the upper arm area poses a particular challenge for plastic surgeons. Since excess fat is often accompanied by excess skin, an upper arm lift often requires a combination of liposuction and traditional brachioplasty surgery. The surgical approach is laid out at the initial brachioplasty consultation. If arm liposuction is chosen exclusively, a small incision is made above the elbow and a thin liposuction cannula is used to remove fat under the skin. If a full upper arm lift is chosen, larger incisions are required to remove fat and loose skin. Arm liposuction may be done under local anesthesia using the tumescent technique but brachioplasty surgery often requires general anesthesia.

Brachioplasty Risks

In general, brachioplasty surgery is associated with minimal morbidity (complications). Perhaps the most common complication following brachioplasty is that the skin retracts too much and tends to stretch. Alternatively, skin retraction may not be as much as expected, particularly in older patients. Rarely an upper arm lift procedure leaves the patient with some nerve damage, which could be permanent. If this occurs, it causes numbness in the arm and hand. As with any surgery, infection and collections of blood and fluid under the skin are possible, but treatable.

Recovery from Brachioplasty

Patients that have had an upper arm lift are required to wear a compression garment on each arm for up to six weeks after brachioplasty. These tight-squeezing sleeves minimize swelling. Patients will also have some minor restrictions on exercise and exertion for days to weeks after the brachioplasty surgery. Follow up appointments are scheduled at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months to determine if a surgical revision is needed.

Cost of an Upper Arm Lift

Brachioplasty cost can vary considerably depending on location. Arm liposuction alone can cost between $2,000 and $3,000.  A true brachioplasty on each arm may cost as much as $5,000. Be prepared to pay for this procedure out-of-pocket since it is an elective cosmetic procedure and usually will not be covered under health insurance plans.

Consulting with a Plastic Surgeon Professional

If you are interested in having brachioplasty surgery, your journey should begin with a consultation visit to a cosmetic plastic surgeon. You should contact a medical professional that has experience in upper arm lift surgery and arm liposuction so that you have both treatment options.

 

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