Brachioplasty

What is Brachioplasty?

Brachioplasty, also known as arm lift or brachial dermolipectomy, is a surgical procedure designed to reshape the inner and posterior region of the arms. This surgery removes excess sagging skin and fatty tissue that can develop due to aging, significant weight fluctuations, or genetic factors.

The result is a more defined, firm, and proportionate arm contour, allowing patients to wear sleeveless clothing with greater confidence and comfort. Brachioplasty specifically addresses the common problem known as "bat wings" or "flabby arms," which does not respond to diet or exercise.

Ideal Candidates

• Have excess sagging skin on the inner side of the arms
• Have experienced significant weight loss resulting in excess skin
• Have localized fat deposits in the arms resistant to exercise
• Maintain a stable weight (ideally close to their target weight)
• Do not smoke or are willing to quit before and after surgery
• Are in good general health
• Have realistic expectations about the results and resulting scars
• Understand the limitations of the surgery and the necessary postoperative care

It is important to note that brachioplasty will leave permanent scars, although these are strategically placed to minimize their visibility.

Types of Brachioplasty

Mini-brachioplasty

• For mild to moderate laxity
• Incision limited to the armpit or a small extension toward the arm
• Minimal and more discreet scars
• Less dramatic results than more extensive techniques

Standard brachioplasty

• For moderate to severe laxity
• Incision extending from the armpit to the elbow along the inner arm
• Allows removal of more skin and fat
• More noticeable results in cases of greater laxity

Extended brachioplasty

• For severe cases, especially after massive weight loss
• The incision extends from the elbow, through the armpit, to the lateral chest wall
• Addresses excess skin that may continue toward the chest
• Suitable for patients with significant body changes

Brachioplasty with liposuction

• Combines skin removal with liposuction
• Ideal for patients with good skin elasticity and excess fat
• In some cases with excellent elasticity, only liposuction may be performed

Surgical Procedure

1. Administration of general anesthesia or deep sedation with local anesthesia
2. Careful marking of the areas to be treated with the patient standing
3. Incisions according to the selected technique (usually on the inner arm)
4. Removal of excess skin and fatty tissue
5. Complementary liposuction if necessary to improve contour
6. Reshaping of the remaining tissues
7. Closure of incisions with sutures in multiple layers to minimize tension
8. Placement of drains in some cases
9. Application of compression dressings

The duration of the procedure varies between 2 and 3 hours, depending on complexity and extent. It is generally performed on an outpatient basis, although in extensive cases, an overnight hospital stay may be required.

Recovery and Results

First week

• Use of specific compression garments for arms 24 hours a day
• Elevation of the arms with pillows while resting
• Moderate discomfort manageable with medication
• Swelling and possible bruising
• Limitation of arm movements, especially lifting objects
• Avoid driving during the first 7-10 days

2-3 weeks

• Removal of sutures (if not absorbable)
• Progressive decrease in swelling
• Gradual return to light daily activities
• Continue with compression garments as indicated by your doctor
• Start gentle and progressive arm movements

4-6 weeks

• Return to most normal activities
• Avoid exercises that intensely involve the arms
• Greater definition in arm contour
• Significant decrease in swelling

3 months

• More defined result
• Resumption of strength exercises for arms
• Scars begin to mature and flatten

6-12 months

• Final result visible
• Lighter scars (process continues up to 18 months)
• Full appreciation of the new shape and contour of the arms

Results and Scars

The results of brachioplasty are immediately visible, although the final appearance develops gradually as swelling decreases and tissues settle. The improvement in arm shape and firmness is significant and long-lasting.

Regarding scars:

• Initially reddish and raised
• Generally located on the inner arm, from the armpit to near the elbow
• Over time (12-18 months) tend to lighten and flatten
• Their final appearance depends on genetic factors, surgical technique, and postoperative care
• Generally hidden when arms are at the sides

To optimize scar evolution, it is recommended to:

• Avoid direct sun exposure for at least 12 months
• Use specific products recommended by your surgeon
• Apply silicone sheets as indicated by your doctor
• Gentle massages once initial healing is complete

Duration of Results

The results of brachioplasty are long-lasting, especially if a stable weight and healthy lifestyle are maintained. Factors that may affect the longevity of results include:

• Significant weight fluctuations
• Natural aging
• Loss of skin elasticity over time
• Effects of gravity

To maintain the best long-term results, it is recommended to:

• Maintain a stable weight
• Do toning exercises for arms
• Follow a balanced diet
• Adequate hydration to maintain skin elasticity
• Sun protection

Combination with Other Procedures

Breast lift (mastopexy)

• Complements upper body rejuvenation
• Addresses laxity that often affects both areas simultaneously

Abdominoplasty

• For patients with generalized body laxity
• Common after massive weight loss

Liposuction of other areas

• Improves overall body contour
• Provides a harmonious and balanced result

Thigh lift

• Completes limb treatment
• Common in patients with significant body changes

Risks and Considerations

• Visible scars (the most significant risk)
• Asymmetry
• Changes in sensation
• Seroma (fluid accumulation)
• Hematoma
• Infection
• Suture dehiscence
• Hypertrophic or keloid scarring
• Lymphedema (rare)
• Unsatisfactory aesthetic results

At Bodies Plastic Surgery, we minimize these risks through thorough preoperative evaluation, meticulous planning, and advanced surgical techniques.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will brachioplasty completely remove stretch marks?

Brachioplasty can remove some stretch marks if they are located in the skin to be removed. However, stretch marks remaining on the residual skin will still be present after surgery.

Will the scars be very visible?

Scars are permanent and their location depends on the technique used. They are generally placed on the inner arm to minimize visibility. Over time, they tend to lighten and flatten, but never disappear completely.

Will I have permanent movement restrictions?

No. After full recovery (3-6 months), most patients regain full arm mobility. During the initial recovery phase, certain movements are limited to promote optimal healing.

Is it possible to combine brachioplasty with other surgeries?

Yes, brachioplasty can be combined with other procedures such as abdominoplasty or breast lift. The suitability of combined surgeries depends on your overall health and will be evaluated individually.

What happens if I gain weight after surgery?

Significant weight fluctuations can compromise the results of brachioplasty. The arms may accumulate fat and develop some laxity again, although generally not to the same extent as before surgery.

At Bodies Plastic Surgery, our specialized team performs personalized brachioplasty procedures using advanced techniques to minimize scarring and maximize results. We understand that each patient has unique needs, so we develop individualized surgical plans to achieve the best possible results in each case.