An arm lift is a cosmetic surgical procedure which aims at reshaping and recontouring the upper arms primarily which are either become loose or have sagging skin. The procedure is also referred to as Brachioplasty (brachio meaning the arm and plasty meaning shaping). Arm lift procedures are usually performed in adults who have lost a great amount of weight around the upper body leading to sagging of skin primarily at the inside of the upper arm region giving it an aged look. Some women also complain of sagging because of natural aging process and wish to get an arm lift done to improve their body image and be comfortable in their choice of clothes.
When is an arm lift procedure indicated ?
An arm lift procedure is indicated in men and women who have sagging skin and tissues around the upper arm (especially on the inner side) making them conscious about their appearance. The procedure is primarily performed for cosmetic concerns and does not have any other benefits. The indications of an arm lift procedure include patients who are otherwise healthy but have lost a drastic amount of weight but need the muscles to be toned or in individuals who have sagging or loose skin as a result of the normal ageing process.
When is an arm lift procedure not advised ?
An arm lift procedure is not advised in individuals who are suffering from chronic ailments like hypertension and diabetes (or an advice from a physician to go ahead with the surgery is advised), bleeding and clotting disorders as they might interfere with the procedure and its outcome. The procedure is also not advised in people who are obese or people who do not maintain a steady weight as it might affect the outcome of the procedure.
How do you prepare for an arm lift procedure ?
Once you have decided to seek a consultation regarding getting an arm lift procedure done, it is most important to find a certified cosmetic surgeon who is trained to perform arm lift procedures. The consultant surgeon will do your complete physical and clinical examination, with detailed history taking and so as to why you need an arm lift procedure and what are your expectations from the same. Since it is a cosmetic enhancement procedure it is of utmost importance to have realistic expectations from the same. An arm lift procedure can reshape your upper arms but cannot really change the skin or appearance of your arm. The consultant might also take some photographs for record purpose and ask you to get certain blood tests done to clear you for the surgical procedure.
Is the arm lift procedure performed under anesthesia ?
Yes, an arm lift procedure is performed under the influence of anesthesia. In most of the patient’s local anesthesia and sedation are preferred but the consultant surgeon and anesthetist decide if general or local anesthesia could be suitable for you.
What happens during an arm lift procedure ?
Once the anesthesia is administered the consultant surgeon will make required incisions on the inner side of upper arm depending upon the amount of skin and tissue which needs to be removed and reshaped. The incisions and techniques differ from individual to individual. Once the incisions are placed the surgeon removes the excess skin and tissues and stiches the skin back which has a more toned and firm appearance. The procedure can take anywhere about one to three hours depending upon your requirement and the surgeon’s technique.
After the procedure is completed the surgical wound will be closed by bandages and some tubes (catheters) may be put in place to help in draining any fluid or blood from the surgical site. The surgeon will ask you to wear an elastic sleeve or a compression bandage to help in wound healing after the tubes are removed. If removable stitches are used, you will have to get them removed after seven to ten days. The doctor will advise you to not lift your arm or give heavy jerks, lift weights or indulge in any strenuous exercise till advised. The results of the procedure are visible in a week or ten days but complete healing may take about weeks to months depending upon the extent of the procedure and how you maintain yourself after the procedure.
What are the risks and complications associated with an arm lift procedure ?
The arm lift procedure is not a major surgical procedure but the complications can range from anesthesia used such as nausea, vomiting, dizziness, gastric upset and related to the procedure such as swelling, soreness, collection of fluid (seroma) at the surgical site, bleeding or infection at the surgical site. One of the commonly noticed complications if scarring at the surgical site. If any of the above complications occur it is advised that you see your consultant surgeon immediately to avoid further complications.
What is the outcome of an arm lift procedure ?
An arm lift procedure or a Brachioplasty is a cosmetic surgical procedure which helps in toning the upper arms in individuals who complain of loose or sagging skin and are conscious about their appearance which in turn affects their confidence. The arm lift procedure can help you in toning your arms making you more comfortable in your clothes and body image, but it is always advisable to ask the surgeon about the risks, benefits and outcome of the procedure before deciding to go ahead with the procedure.
How to find cosmetic surgeons for arm lift procedure ?
Now you can find cosmetic surgeons for arm lift procedure from different hospitals and destinations on a single platform, Hinfoways. You can avail opinions from multiple cosmetic surgeons, cost estimates for arm lift procedure from different hospitals, compare things and then choose a cosmetic surgeon for arm lift procedure.
Find and choose a cosmetic surgeon for arm lift procedure on Hinfoways. Make an informed choice.
Disclaimer: The content provided here is meant for general informational purposes only and hence SHOULD NOT be relied upon as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, care or evaluation by a qualified doctor/physician or other relevantly qualified healthcare provider.