Get Sleek, Toned Arms with Arm Lift Surgery: A Step-by-Step Guide to Procedure and Recovery
Brachioplasty Breakdown: Procedural Details and Expected Healing Timeline
Arm lift surgery, also known as brachioplasty, is a popular cosmetic treatment that reshapes and improves the contour of sagging upper arms caused by weight loss, aging, or genetic factors. If you're curious about what this surgery entails and what the recovery process looks like, here's the lowdown!
Meeting Your Plastic Surgeon
Before diving into the procedure, it's essential to consult with the best plastic surgeon [1] to discuss your needs, medical history, and expectations. During this consultation, the surgeon will assess the extent of your arm sagging, explain the procedure's specifics, including risks and benefits, and determine the ideal technique for your situation.
The Surgery Process
Typically, arm lift surgery takes approximately two to three hours and is performed under general anesthesia. During the procedure, the surgeon makes incisions on the inside or back of the arm, extending from the underarm to just above the elbow. After removing excess skin and fat, the surgeon tightens and reshapes the underlying supportive tissue, sometimes with the aid of liposuction [2].
Post-Surgery Care and Recovery
Immediately after the surgery, you'll be taken to a recovery area, where your surgeon will apply a bandage to your arm and may insert small drainage tubes to eliminate excess blood or fluid. You can expect mild to moderate discomfort, swelling, and limited arm movement following the procedure. Your surgeon will prescribe pain medication to manage the discomfort and recommend wearing compression garments to minimize swelling and aid healing.
During the first week of recovery, swelling should begin to decrease, and drainage tubes will be removed. Your surgeon may also advise returning for the removal of stitches. You should avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities but begin to regain arm mobility during this period. Within two weeks, it's common to see a noticeable reduction in swelling, allowing you to return to work or normal activities. However, heavy lifting and strenuous exercise should still be avoided for four to six weeks [3].
Long-Term Recovery and Maintenance
Swelling and bruising should subside completely within three to four weeks. However, it may take six months for the final results to fully develop as the tissues settle into their new contours. Over time, scars will slowly fade, though they will remain permanent [4].
To ensure a smooth recovery and improve scar visibility, follow your surgeon's guidelines for keeping incisions clean, applying scar treatment therapies as advised, and minimizing excess arm motion. In addition to maintaining a healthy diet, hydration, and gentle walks, these steps will promote circulation, prevent blood clots, and accelerate recovery [5].
Final Thoughts and the Role of an Experienced Plastic Surgeon
Choosing an experienced and skilled plastic surgeon is crucial in ensuring a successful arm lift surgery and minimizing potential risks such as infection, bleeding, scarring, and asymmetry [1]. Dr. Rajat Gupta, a board-certified plastic surgeon in India with 13 years of experience [6], strives to offer the latest technology and expert aesthetic solutions to patients in India and around the world. To book an appointment, call 91-9251711711 or email [email protected].
Sources:1. Gupta, R. (2021, April 25). Choosing the right plastic surgeon for arm lift procedure. Ourwebsite.com. Retrieved from https://www.ourwebsite.com/blog/choosing-the-right-plastic-surgeon-for-arm-lift-procedure/2. Mayo Clinic. (2020, December 18). Brachioplasty (Arm lift). Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/brachioplasty/about/pac-203950333. American Society of Plastic Surgeons. (2020, August 28). Arm lift (Brachioplasty). Retrieved from https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/arm-lift4. Aesthetica. (2020, October 13). Arm lift surgery recovery: Tips for recovery. Retrieved from https://www.aesthetica.com/procedures/arm-lift/recovery/5. American Society of Plastic Surgeons. (2020). Choosing a plastic surgeon. Retrieved from https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/choosing-a-plastic-surgeon/search6. Rajat Gupta, M.D. (n.d.). Biography. Ourwebsite.com. Retrieved from https://www.ourwebsite.com/doctors/rajat-gupta/
- To achieve the best results from arm lift surgery, or brachioplasty, it is advisable to seek advice from a skilled and experienced plastic surgeon, as they have a deep understanding of the science and techniques involved in this aesthetic procedure.
- Under the guidance of a qualified plastic surgeon, the arm lift surgery may include liposuction as part of the process to remove excess fat and reshape the upper arms.
- Post-surgery, a combination of proper health-and-wellness practices, such as following a balanced nutrition plan along with gentle exercises, can help speed up the recovery process and promote better overall results.
- Besides the immediate two-week recovery period where strenuous activities should be avoided, maintaining a fitness-and-exercise regimen and healthy eating habits will contribute to long-lasting results and minimize complications following arm lift surgery.
