Download and print before-and-after Brachioplasty instructions here.
Unfortunately, flabby, lax tissue along the upper arm is an all too common problem. Often referred to as ‘bingo wings’ or ‘bat wings’, this loose skin can affect any age, gender, or body type. Hereditary conditions, along with the normal aging process, can contribute to shapeless upper arms. Additionally, patients who have experienced a dramatic weight loss, like is seen with a gastric bypass, are particularly prone to this drooping skin.
Large upper arms can result in self-consciousness and even embarrassment. Since clothing may not fit well, some shirt sleeves may be too tight, while sleeveless attire and swimwear seem unattractive. Both women and men can struggle with stubborn fatty deposits along the upper arms, which even with proper diet and regular exercise may be impossible to improve. In this case, a brachioplasty will be necessary to restore youthful, trim arms.
Procedure Snapshot
| PROCEDURE SUMMARY | |
|---|---|
| What is the pain level after the surgery? | Mild to moderate |
| Anesthesia type (if applicable) | General anesthesia |
| Duration of Surgery | 2 to 3 hours |
| Where will scaring for this procedure be? | Running along the under arm, from the armpit to the elbow |
| Timeframe to begin showing final results | 2 to 3 weeks |
| When is the patient able to return to regular activities? | 1 week |
| When is the patient able to resume exercise? | 2-3 weeks |
| Cost of surgeon’s fee | $4,000 – $6,000 |
A Brachioplasty at the Naderi Center
Brachioplasty, sometimes called an arm lift, is a unique surgical procedure designed to restore a pleasant contour to the upper arm. Performed as an outpatient procedure by experienced body sculpting surgeon, Dr. Erica Anderson at the Naderi Center, the brachioplasty creates a youthful structure to the arm between the shoulder and elbow by eliminating localized deposits of fat and sagging tissue. Dr. Anderson has over ten years of experience with the arm lift technique, and custom tailors each procedure to the individual patient’s needs. Depending on the patient, a brachioplasty can be performed alone. Other body sculpting techniques, such as a breast lift or upper body lift, can be added for optimal results.
The Ideal Brachioplasty Patient
Potential brachioplasty candidates, both male and female, can find themselves frustrated with hanging, excess skin along the upper arm. The ideal candidate will be in overall good health, understand the brachioplasty process, and hold realistic expectations for the final results. It is also recommended that, at the time of surgery, patients be close to their ideal weight. This will ensure that the arm lift results are long lasting, as large weight changes can undo the benefits of surgery. Although liposuction alone cannot address the lax skin or stretched skin of the upper arm, the technique may be beneficial when combined with the brachioplasty.
The Brachioplasty Procedure
Dr. Anderson’s arm lift procedure is performed on an outpatient basis, at a local, accredited surgical center. Either general anesthesia or local anesthesia with IV sedation will be used. Her brachioplasty normally takes from two to four hours to complete.
To begin, Dr. Anderson will make an elliptical incision, running along the under arm, from the armpit to the elbow. The level of correction and individual patient’s anatomy will determine the exact pattern and incision length. From here, Dr. Anderson will remove the unwanted fatty tissue and skin. Next, she will pull the remaining tissues taut and sculpt the upper arm. Lipocontouring is a useful adjunct in the majority of cases. Once the desired contour has been achieved, Dr. Anderson will place sutures to ensure proper healing. For optimal rejuvenation of the arm, the brachioplasty can be combined with liposuction or additional body sculpting procedures.
A Private Brachioplasty Consultation with Dr. Anderson
Prior to scheduling a brachioplasty, a one-on-one consultation will be scheduled with Dr. Anderson. At this time, she will review the patient’s medical history and current medications, as well as explain her techniques for the arm lift procedure. Dr. Anderson will show before/after photographs of her recent brachioplasty patients to create a full picture of the potential results. Finally, she will go over the benefits and limitations of the brachioplasty, as it applies to the individual patient, and the potential surgical risks. If the brachioplasty is determined to be the right procedure for achieving desired results, Dr. Anderson will create a personalized treatment plan.
Potential Complications from the Brachioplasty
The brachioplasty is considered a safe and effective procedure when performed by an experienced plastic surgeon, such as the Naderi Center’s Dr. Anderson. As the arm lift is a surgical procedure, a small risk for complications does exist. Potential risks from an arm lift can include unexpected bleeding, scarring, infection, nerve damage, and asymmetry. The best way for patients to avoid these problems is to place their trust in a well-trained, board certified cosmetic surgeon like Dr. Anderson.
The Brachioplasty Recovery Process
The recovery from a brachioplasty will take from one to two weeks. Patients generally feel well enough to return to work in seven to fourteen days, sometimes sooner. At this time, light activities can be resumed, although heavy lifting and vigorous exercise should be postponed for three to four weeks.
Bruising and swelling are common along the upper arm during the initial brachioplasty healing period. To avoid unwanted swelling or fluid accumulation, Dr. Anderson recommends a compression garment be worn for two to four weeks. In some cases, drain tubes may also be necessary. Mild to moderate discomfort is not uncommon, so Dr. Anderson will prescribe pain medications for a comfortable healing period.
Get Started Toward a Brachioplasty with Dr. Anderson, Today
Through years of cosmetic surgery experience, Dr. Anderson has developed her own brachioplasty techniques, consistently providing her patients with safe and successful results. If you are interested in the potential benefits of a brachioplasty, schedule your consultation with Dr. Anderson at the Naderi Center. Consultations are available at either the Herndon, Virginia office (703.481.0002) or the Chevy Chase, Maryland office (301.222.2020). Please contact a patient coordinator for more information. For those coming from outside of the immediate area, please inquire about a virtual consultation with Dr. Anderson.
Brachioplasty FAQs
What is a brachioplasty?
The brachioplasty, sometimes referred to as an arm lift, is a surgical procedure designed to sculpt the upper arm by eliminating lax skin and excess fatty tissue.
How long will the results from my brachioplasty last?
The results from a brachioplasty are permanent. However, patients are advised to continue with a healthy lifestyle and consistent exercise routine, in order to ensure long lasting benefits.
When can I return to work after my brachioplasty at the Naderi Center?
Most brachioplasty patients feel well enough to return to work in one to two weeks after surgery.
Will my arm lift leave scars?
Yes, the brachioplasty procedure will result in a visible scar along the incision line from the elbow to the armpit. The scar can be concealed under clothing, and over time, will fade slightly.
Is liposuction a valid alternative to the brachioplasty procedure?
Liposuction effectively removes fatty deposits, however the technique does not address lax, stretched skin. Dr. Anderson’s brachioplasty removes unwanted fatty tissue as well as the excess skin, creating a sculpted, slender upper arm that liposuction alone cannot achieve.