"Before losing weight, I struggled to find clothes that fit my body shape, but thankfully I discovered a store that catered to my needs. However, since losing 30 kilos, I'm facing new challenges in finding suitable clothing because my favourite store doesn't offer options for my new body shape. Doctor, what can I do about the excess sagging skin on my arms?"
Congratulations on embarking on a journey towards a healthier lifestyle. We're confident that you're feeling much better, and we understand the concern regarding excess sagging skin. It's a solvable problem, but it's important to note that achieving a smoother upper arm contour comes at a price—a long scar. Ultimately, the decision rests with you and what aligns best with your preferences and goals.
What is arm lift?
After bariatric surgery, patients who have lost a significant amount of weight frequently become dissatisfied with the appearance of loose skin in their upper thighs or arms as well as in their abdomen. When combined with bariatric surgery, body contouring surgeries can greatly enhance or restore patients' body image and quality of life. Brachioplasty, an alternative term for arm lift surgery, is a popular body contouring operation that removes extra tissue and sagging skin from the upper arms to create a more symmetrical and natural-looking shape. It is important to remember that brachioplasty is regarded as a minor procedure with a low risk of complications and no impact on the upper limbs' long-term function or range of motion.
What is the difference between arm lift and arm liposuction?
A more conservative surgical technique called arm liposuction involves making tiny incisions close to the elbows to remove extra fat from the upper arms.
If there is no sagging or loss of elasticity in the upper arm skin, liposuction is a good first option because it does not involve excessive skin excision.
The procedure for an arm lift involves making a sinusoidal incision that extends from the elbow to the armpit. Depending on the patient's unique physiology and the total amount of loose skin that needs to be removed, the incision may be made on the inside or the backside of the arm. Effective contouring will inevitably leave both arms permanently scarred, but the outcomes result in firmer, aesthetically shaped upper arms.
Can other surgeries be combined with arm lift?
Combining an arm lift with several other body sculpting surgeries, such as a thigh lift, tummy tuck, or breast augmentation, is not unusual. However, a relatively significant area of the upper body's soft tissues are exposed when multiple surgical procedures are combined. Consequently, this increases the risk of infection and raises the possibility of wound healing complications.
Who is a suitable candidate for arm lift surgery?
- A person who has lost a significant amount of weight quickly and has noticeably sagging skin on their upper arms is usually a good candidate for an arm lift.
- In addition, to prevent complications and impaired recovery during the postoperative phase, one must be in generally good health.
- Someone who is seeking arm lift surgery should be aware that, like with all body-contouring procedures, the vertical incisions made in the posterior brachial region will result in permanent scarring.
- Finally, a plastic surgeon should be consulted in order to accurately assess a person's suitability for an arm lift.
Recovery
A successful brachioplasty, or an arm lift, recovery requires persistence and time.
- It is expected that postoperative patients will experience mild to moderate pain, which can be controlled with prescription medication for up to seven days. It is advised to avoid even moderately strenuous upper body exercises during that period as they could put pressure on the incision sites.
- It is essential to wear a compression garment after the sutures and bandages are taken off, since this might accelerate the healing process of the wound.
- After the procedure, arm lift scars are clearly visible for the first few months and gradually turn into thin lines over time. If necessary, an additional surgical procedure could be used to address unlikely aberrant scarring.
- As a clinical sign of a local inflammatory response following surgery, upper arm bruising and swelling may persist for up to 4-6 weeks. You should consult a doctor if it continues to last.
Just a few additional matters need to be addressed for a more seamless recovery after the procedure:
- Following surgery, the recovery period can last up to two weeks. To prevent disrupting the healing process, it's crucial to avoid heavy lifting, strenuous activity, and raising one's arms over shoulder level during that time. Resuming regular physical activity after surgery may take a patient up to six weeks.
- The incision sites must be kept clean and dry. Patients are advised to shower and continue with their personal hygiene regimen in the first few days after the treatment, or adjust it as directed by their doctor.
- Since they are easier to put on and take off, loose-fitting clothing is recommended for the patient's convenience.
- It is advised to maintain at least a minimal level of activity during the first week following surgery, such as going for quick walks several times a day. Little physical exercise significantly improves blood circulation, which helps in the healing process.
- Patients are strongly advised to avoid using nicotine products and alcohol following surgery, especially if they are taking prescription medications of any kind. These actions may result in harmful side effects and complications.
