Brachioplasty (Upper arm tightening)

This operation aims to tighten and flatten the upper inner arms. This is achieved by removing excessive skin and fat and tightening the area for a much improved contour. This is a common problem, particularly after marked weight loss. The full brachioplasty removes skin/fat along the length of the arm. Occasionally a mini-brachioplasty can be performed leaving only a scar in the armpit area.

Procedure in brief

Brachioplasty

The excess skin/fat is removed from the upper inner arm. This leaves a scar from the armpit area to the elbow in a ‘shirt seam’ position. Liposuction is sometimes performed at the same time to the other parts of arm for a better contour. The scar is quite obvious for the first 6-12 months before finally fading. Patients need to think about the scar versus the better shape in deciding about surgery.

Brachioplasty Facts

Scars

The scar is usually in the shirt sleeve position and runs the whole length of the upper inner arm. Scars tend to be quite pink in the first 3-6 months and then fade to white.

Length of surgery and hospital stay

The operation takes 1 hour 30 minutes depending upon technique and size of arm. Hospital stay is usually overnights. Any dressings or drains are removed before leaving hospital and a support bandage fitted which is used for 4 weeks.

Time off work and recovery

Allow 2-4 weeks. People vary in recovery. This is a wound that often has small areas that take a while to fully heal. Most patients are very mobile and comfortable at 1-2 weeks. It may be feasible to return to work at that stage. You will be mobilising from day one, swimming by 3-4 weeks and strenuous exercise (aerobics etc) by 8 weeks. Driving is usually possible in the second or third week.

Potential complications

This routine operation is a great success for the vast majority of patients, most patients having no problems. However, it is very important you understand that complications may occur such as bleeding, infection, wound problems or variable scar quality. With brachioplasty, other potential problems include fluid collection (seroma) under the skin, altered skin sensation, nerve injury and prolonged swelling within the arm.

What is covered in costs