Brachioplasty

The main indication for a Brachioplasty is the relaxation and sagging of the skin on the arms. This relaxation can be the result of massive weight loss, the previous liposuction in the area with simultaneously reduced skin tightening or finally due to age.

Why opt for a Brachioplasty (arm lift)

With Brachioplasty, we achieve the removal of the loose skin in the arm area through an incision which is hidden in the armpit area. In cases of great relaxation, the incision may extend along the inner surface of the arm from the armpit to the elbow. With this operation we can achieve a perfect shape on the arm, leaving, however, a scar that will take about twelve (12) months to fade.

Surgical incisions

The incision will usually be L-shaped, starting at the axilla and continuing along the inner surface of the arm, but may also be limited to the axilla.

Scars

The appearance of scars after surgery is extremely satisfactory. The color of scars will initially be pink and after about six months it will fade to white.

Medication

In our clinic, a complete medical history is always taken before each surgery. As a precaution, over-the-counter medicines or herbal products should not be taken before and for 3 days after surgery. It is also considered necessary to avoid taking non-steroid, anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin (salospir), ibuprofen (Nurofen), diclofenac and any other anticoagulant or antiplatelet drug.

Smoking

If you are a smoker you should try to stop smoking for at least 1 week before and 1 week after the surgery as this will dramatically reduce the incidence of postoperative complications and help achieve the best possible result.

Recovery from the Brachioplasty

Duration of the procedure

Based on the type of procedure, the duration may vary from 2 hours to 2.5 hours and even though it is usually carried out under general anesthesia, it can also be carried out under local anesthesia and anesthetic gas.

Duration of hospitalization

The patient is usually required to stay in the hospital for one night.

Wound Care

The area is usually covered with steristrips which remain on the wound for 2 weeks, during which period wounds normally heal. You will need to wear an elastic sleeve that covers the top of the arm throughout the day for the first week, and then only during the day for two to three weeks.

Post-op instructions

On day one you should ideally avoid any activity. You should not take care of small children or do household chores without help.

From day 2 to day 5 you can get up and move, but you may feel a slight discomfort.

From day 6 to day 14 and especially from the second week onwards most of the swelling and bruising will subside and from then on you will start to feel much better. You might also be able to start some mild exercising such as walking, shopping etc.

From the fourth week onwards you will be able to return to your normal everyday lives.

Postoperative follow-up

The incisions and the result will be checked and dressings will be changed on the second day after surgery and on the fifth day after surgery. However, if you need any clarification or there is something that worries you, doctors are always at your disposal. Your next appointments will be one week, one month,  three months, six months and finally one year after your operation, during which appointments postoperative photos will be taken. For these visits there will of course be no extra charge for any follow-up related to your surgery.

Final outcome

Brachioplasty has immediate, visible results. However, the result is constantly improving, as the tissues soften and regain their optimal shape and form after three to six months.

Absence from work

Recovery time varies from person to person. In general, however, patients should be given at least two weeks to recover. Patients whose work involves a lot of movement or manual labor may need more time. Most patients feel quite comfortable from the very first week having a feeling of mild discomfort rather than pain.

Refraining from exercising

Patients usually feel able to walk a distance comfortably after three days and swim gently after ten to fourteen days (if they have fully recovered). However, strenuous exercise should be avoided for at least three weeks. Sports that require physical contact should be avoided for at least six weeks.

Driving

Patients who have undergone Brachioplasty should ideally avoid driving until they are completely free of any discomfort or restriction, in order to be able to make a sudden movement, such as braking, freely and without any pain. This parameter is proposed so that patients can secure coverage from their insurance company in case of an accident. Thus, it may take up to two weeks for them to fully recover. There are of course patients who feel able to drive after 4-5 days, but always at their own risk.

Possible complications of Brachioplasty

Brachioplasty is a routine operation and is completely successful for the vast majority of our patients, which is a result of the large number of cases that doctors have in their belt. However, as with any surgery, it is very important to understand that there is a possibility of complications. Possible complications are listed below:

Minor asymmetry

The exact same technique is used on both arms, however, the results may be slightly different for each thigh.

Scars

The quality of scars differs between patients (see here incisions).

Alteration of the sensation of the area

You may experience some tenderness in the area but that usually subsides during the first week.

Bruises – Hematoma

In the majority of the cases, these are mild and are absorbed within two weeks.

If you experience any symptoms that may worry you, please do not hesitate to contact us.