Brachioplasty Tightens Loose Upper Arm Skin For a More Youthful Appearance
For many people, the effects of aging are evident in their skin,
not just on their face but over their entire body. As the years pass,
the skin begins to lose its elasticity, its thickness and its adherence
to the tissues underneath it. In addition, gravity takes it toll.
During these years, muscles and bones begin to thin as do the deep
layers of fat. One of the areas where these transformations are most
obvious is the upper arms where loose skin can develop.
Weight loss is another culprit in the formation
of loose upper arm skin which is sometimes referred to as “batwing” deformity.
For people who have once been overweight but have lost weight,
the result can often be upper arm skin that failed to tighten
and now sags. While the weight is gone, the upper arm skin remains
stretched out, somewhat like a loose hammock.
A brachioplasty (arm lift) is a surgical procedure which will lift
and tighten the loose skin in the upper arms and provide a more youthful
long-lasting appearance and contour to the arms. Because the targeted
correction of a brachioplasty is not the removal of fat but the removal
of excess skin, liposuction is not the option for upper arm looseness;
however, in some cases, suctioning is performed simultaneously to
provide a better contour to the upper arm.
The Surgery Brachioplasty usually lasts about two hours. Most patients
can go home the same day. Dr. Wilcox or Dr. Dulin will mark the areas
requiring excision prior to surgery. The incisions are made in the
inner and under surface of the arms, usually in a zigzag or curved
line to minimize the potential for scar contraction or tightening.
The incision and resultant scar will typically run from the axilla
(armpit) to the elbow on the inside of the arm. The skin is excised
in an elliptical or triangular shape. After the excess skin and fat
is removed, the edges of the remaining skin are stretched and brought
together with sutures. Sometimes drainage tubes are used to keep
excess fluid from building up. Compression garments are applied to
aid in the healing process.
The Risks
Brachioplasty may not be appropriate for
some people due to medical or physical conditions. Patients who
have undergone mastectomy may not be able to have brachioplasty
because of the increased risks associated with a procedure of this
type. Also, patients who have experienced repeated armpit infections
or who have excess sweat production may not be appropriate candidates.
As stated above, the patient must be aware of and comfortable with
the extent of the visible scars (i.e., from armpit to elbow). However,
for most, the tradeoff of a scar (that can be hidden with clothing
styles) for excess wobbling skin is well worth it.
Your specific case and options will be discussed in your consultation
with Dr. Wilcox or Dr. Dulin.
