Brachioplasty (Arm Lift)
An arm lift, also known as brachioplasty, is a body contouring procedure aimed at reshaping and slimming the underside of the arms by removing excess fat and loose skin, often resulting from significant weight loss.
Loose or sagging skin on the upper arms is a common concern, especially after substantial weight loss or with age. This condition is colloquially referred to as “bingo wings” or “bat wings” and is characterized by excess skin in the upper arm area that cannot be easily improved through exercise alone. In such cases, one of the most effective solutions is brachioplasty, commonly known as an upper arm lift. This surgical procedure is specifically designed to address the issue of sagging arm skin, helping individuals achieve a more toned and youthful appearance.
At Champs-Élysées Aesthetic Medical Center, our team of experienced surgeons provides the best possible outcomes for patients dealing with the aftermath of dramatic weight loss, including the challenge of excess skin in areas like the upper arms.
What Is A Brachioplasty Procedure?
Brachioplasty, or an upper arm lift, is a cosmetic surgery designed to address sagging skin and excess fatty tissue in the upper arm area. The goal of this procedure is not only to remove surplus skin and fat but also to improve the overall shape and contour of the arm.
This surgical intervention is comprehensive in scope and aims to correct the sagging appearance caused by significant weight loss or the natural aging process, which can lead to a decrease in skin elasticity. During a Brachioplasty procedure, an incision is typically made either on the inside or back of the arm, depending on individual needs and the surgeon’s assessment. Through this incision, excess skin and fat are removed, often with the assistance of liposuction. Subsequently, the remaining skin is tightened and sutured back into place, resulting in firmer, more youthful, and toned upper arms.
It’s important to note that while Brachioplasty can significantly improve the aesthetic appearance of the arms, it is a major surgical procedure that requires careful consideration and should ideally be performed by a skilled and experienced plastic surgeon. Patients must also be prepared for a recovery period post-surgery and should follow all postoperative care instructions for optimal results.
Brachioplasty Results
At the Champs-Élysées Aesthetic Medical Center, we take pride in the high level of satisfaction our arm lift patients express after their procedures. The results of arm lift surgery typically include toned and youthful-looking upper arms, providing our patients with the confidence to wear sleeveless attire freely.
The pleasing results achieved from arm lift surgery are typically long-lasting and maintain their aesthetic appeal for an extended period. The surgical scars from the procedure are usually not visible unless the arms are raised, and over time, these scars gradually fade, further enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the surgery.
Benefits Of Upper Arm Lift Surgery
The upper arm lift, or Brachioplasty, is specifically designed to address excess skin in the upper arm area. While the full benefits may become more evident over time as the body heals and adapts post-surgery, there are several key advantages associated with undergoing this procedure:
- Enhanced Arm Firmness: Brachioplasty noticeably increases the firmness of the upper arms by removing excess skin and fat, allowing the remaining skin to tighten, resulting in a more toned appearance.
- Elimination of Sagging Skin: This surgery effectively eliminates the issue of sagging skin in the upper arms, resulting in smoother and more youthful-looking arms.
- Strategically Placed Scars: The scars from Brachioplasty are typically positioned on the inner part of the arms, making them less noticeable. This placement minimizes the visual impact of the scars while maximizing the aesthetic outcome of the procedure.
- Improved Arm Contour: By removing excess skin and fat and tightening the remaining skin, Brachioplasty significantly enhances the overall contour of the arms, leading to a more proportionate appearance and increased self-confidence in various types of clothing.
Ideal Candidates For Brachioplasty Procedure
When considering a Brachioplasty procedure, it’s essential to determine whether you’re a suitable candidate. This assessment is typically done during an in-depth consultation at the Champs-Élysées Aesthetic Medical Center, where you can discuss your concerns and expectations with a qualified surgeon.
The ideal candidate for a Brachioplasty procedure should meet the following criteria:
- Overall Health: Candidates should be in good physical and mental health to ensure a smooth surgical process, a successful recovery, and the ability to handle any stress or anxiety associated with major surgery.
- Non-Smoking Status: Ideally, candidates should be non-smokers, as smoking can impede the healing process. If a candidate smokes, they should be willing to quit at least six weeks before and after the procedure to reduce potential complications and promote optimal healing.
- Presence of Sagging Skin: Candidates typically have significant sagging skin in the upper arm region that is causing aesthetic concerns, physical discomfort, or mental distress.
- Realistic Expectations: Candidates should have a clear and realistic understanding of what Brachioplasty can and cannot achieve. While the surgery can greatly enhance the appearance of the upper arms, it won’t necessarily result in “perfect” arms.
- Personal Motivation: Ideal candidates should seek surgery for their own personal reasons and not to conform to societal trends or pressures. The decision to undergo this procedure should be self-motivated and not influenced by others’ opinions or expectations.
- Informed Awareness: Candidates should understand the potential risks and complications associated with Brachioplasty to make an informed decision about the procedure.
Preparing for an Arm Lift
At the Champs-Élysées Aesthetic Medical Center, we understand that the prospect of surgery can be anxiety-inducing. Our highly skilled surgeons take a compassionate and patient-centric approach, listening carefully to your desires and concerns while providing professional guidance on the potential outcomes and limitations of each surgical procedure.
During your initial consultation, which includes a physical examination and review of your medical history, you’ll have the opportunity to discuss your goals and expectations for the surgery. Our expert surgeons will thoroughly evaluate your specific case to determine the most suitable procedure or combination of procedures to help you achieve your desired results.
For an arm lift procedure, specific aspects such as the location of the incision and the potential need for liposuction will be discussed in detail. Our surgeons will collaborate with you to recommend the procedure that aligns best with your desired results, aiming to bring you as close as possible to achieving your aesthetic aspirations.
While Botox® is generally well-tolerated, there are potential side effects that may occur, including pain, a burning sensation, headaches, swelling, and itching in the treated area. These inconveniences usually subside within one or two days. In rare cases, some patients may experience ptosis or eyelid drooping, which typically resolves within three weeks. This side effect is more likely if the injected Botox® is inadvertently redistributed in the treated area. To minimize this risk, it’s important to remain upright for three to four hours after the treatment and avoid massaging the area for at least 12 hours.