Arm Lift Surgery (Brachioplasty)
An arm lift or Brachioplasty is an operation which removes undesirable excess skin and fat, or ‘bingo wings’, from the upper arms. This helps to give the upper arm a more toned and defined appearance.
Our expert Consultant Plastic Surgeon can:
- Enhance the contours of the upper arms
- Create a better proportioned arm shape
- Help to improve body confidence
How would Arm Lift Surgery benefit me?
It is very common for fat to accumulate in the upper arms. In women this is regularly referred to as ‘bingo wings’. In addition to this stored fat, an excess of loose skin can make this part of the body appear out of proportion and conspicuous. This can adversely affect body image and affect the style of clothes in which you feel confident and comfortable. Ironically further weight loss can make things worse as excess skin can droop lower. Many people cope with this by attempting to conceal the area. An arm lift reduces the loose skin and helps to tone and contour the arm giving a more trim and youthful appearance.
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Arm Lift Consultation
To achieve the best results, it might be appropriate to combine treatment with other cosmetic procedures including liposuction and tummy tuck (abdominoplasty)
Arm Lift Procedure
Arm lift surgery is performed under general anaesthetic and takes approximately two hours.
The technique used in an arm lift depends on the extent of excess or loose skin around the upper arm. For individuals with only an excess of fatty tissue but not a lot of loose skin it may be possible to treat the area with liposuction. Liposuction is advantageous in that there would be minimal scarring and recovery is shorter but is limited as it does not tighten the skin.
For those who require both fatty tissue and an excess of loose skin to be removed a full arm lift is required. In this operation liposuction is first used to remove excess fat from under the problem area. An incision is then made from the arm pit down the arm towards the elbow. Excess skin is then removed. Our expert surgeon will ensure that the scar is positioned as discreetly as possible on the inner side of the arm. It is important to highlight though that the arm is very mobile and the scar will be visible at certain angles, for example if you raise your arm.
Arm Lift Recovery and After Care
An overnight stay in hospital is required after the operation.
Some swelling and bruising is completely normal and should be expected. This bruising can take a few weeks to settle but it can take several months for the swelling to reduce completely revealing the full result of your surgery.
It is very important to keep your dressings dry to aid healing.
An appointment to check your wounds will be made with the nurse approximately ten days after surgery. To help recovery, keep your arms and elbows moving gently within the limits of any pain. Strenuous activity and sport should be avoided for 6 weeks post surgery.
Follow up appointments will be scheduled to check on your progress.
Risks associated with Arm Lift Surgery
Like all types of surgery, there are some risks associated with Arm Lift surgery.
Although the risks are unlikely, it is very important to weigh them up against the benefits of the surgery. A consultation with your surgeon will help you to choose the right procedure and discuss any possible complications.
Before/After Pictures
