SINGAPORE ASSOCIATION OF PLASTIC SURGEONS

Arm Lift

ARM LIFT (BRACHIOPLASTY)

Dr Chia Hui Ling
Brachioplasty, also known as arm lift, is a surgical procedure that reduces unwanted excess sagging skin at the arm that droops downwards. It tightens and smoothens the underlying supportive tissue that defines the shape of the upper arm as well as reducing fat pockets in the upper arm region.

Fluctuations in weight, aging and heredity can cause your upper arm skin and tissues to sag or droop. This is a condition that cannot be corrected through exercise or losing weight.

This surgery is suitable for adults with significant upper arm skin laxity whose weight is relatively stable, not significantly overweight, without significant medical conditions that will impair healing and recovery, non-smokers and individuals with a positive outlook and realistic expectations. The results of arm lift surgery will be long-lasting provided that you maintain a stable weight and general fitness.

TREATMENT

Have a thorough discussion with your plastic surgeon, including your surgical goals, medical conditions, drug allergies, medications and previous surgeries. Expected outcomes, including scar placement, risks and other treatment options should be explained to you.
  • Preparing for Surgery

    Do inform your plastic surgeon of previous surgeries, any medical conditions and medications. Avoid blood-thinning medications, anti-inflammatory drugs or herbal supplementations as they can increase the risk of excessive bleeding during surgery, unless indicated by your doctor.



  • Surgery

    Brachioplasty is usually performed under general anesthesia or intravenous sedation. The length and pattern of the incision will depend on the amount and location of your excess skin to be removed.


    Incisions are generally placed inside of the arm or on the back of the arm and may extend from the underarm (axilla) to just above the elbow. Depending on your chest skin laxity, the incision may extend into the side of your chest.


    The procedure may include liposuction to remove excess fat and internal tightening sutures to reshape the arm.


  • Post-Surgery Care

    Swelling and bruising is expected and majority will subside in a few weeks and th final result apparent in a few months. Drainage tubes may be palced to drain excess blood or fluid. Dressings and bandages will be applied to your arm to control swelling. You may need to wear a pressure garment for a few weeks, depending on your surgeon's preference. If non-absorbable sutures are used, they are usually removed around 2 weeks

COMPLICATIONS AND MANAGEMENT

Risks of arm lift surgery include:
  • Anaesthesia risk
  • Bleeding
  • Infection
  • Poor wound healing
  • Poor scarring
  • Seroma (fluid accumulation)
  • Damage to tissue structures such as nerves and blood vessels
  • Lumpiness (from fat necrosis or uneven liposuction)
  • Skin numbness
  • Asymmetry
  • Revision surgery to address complications

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