Arm Lift (Brachioplasty)

A patient who is displaying a substantial amount of excess skin will only really achieve a good result using a surgical arm lift.

However, if you have less severe skin excess with good skin elasticity then you may be suitable for liposuction which will address underlying fat excess without skin removal.

There are several different techniques for arm reduction.  In a younger patient with relatively taut skin liposuction alone may be employed.  When the skin is not taut, liposuction can makes matters worse by increasing the apparent skin excess.  

Liposuction is, however, frequently used as part of the arm reduction procedure to help fine tune the arm shape.  The most common form of arm reduction is to directly excise the overhanging fold of tissue.  This leaves a scar that is concealed under the arm and runs from the elbow to the armpit.  In some patients, the excision is extended down the side of the trunk towards the bra strap line to excise excess tissue around the armpit.

During an arm lift excess skin and fat is removed between the armpit and elbow, where sagging skin usually occurs. The remaining skin is placed back over the newly repositioned contours to create a more toned and tight look, significantly reducing the size of the arms

When you first meet Mr Sawyer at your initial consultation, he will ask you questions about your specific concerns and take a full medical and surgical history.  Details regarding the operation, the aims, the limitations, the recovery and the risks will be discussed.  Before the operation (if you are having this performed under general anaesthetic), you will usually attend for a nurse-led pre-assessment which will involve specific tests which look at the suitability for a general anaesthetic. Commonly, blood tests and ECGs are performed at this appointment.  If any particular health problems or results from blood tests arise, then these may be discussed with Mr Sawyer's Consultant Anaesthetist before embarking with surgery.

For the first 1-2 weeks following surgery patients should rest.  They should refrain from driving or from undertaking any housework.  After this period, light housework and gentle activities can be undertaken, gradually building up to normal over a 6-8-week period.  Gentle gym activities and jogging can be resumed at 3-4 weeks; however heavy lifting or any vigorous sporting activities (aerobics, tennis, and badminton) should be avoided for 2-3 months following surgery as undue pressure on the wound may have an adverse effect on scarring.  Most patients refrain from work for 1-2 weeks.  However, for those with physical jobs or for whom recovery is delayed, an additional 1-2 weeks may be required.

After an arm lift, your arms will be covered in loose elasticated bandages to minimise swelling and protect the wounds. 

The technique involves a T-shaped or curved incision from the armpit, continuing along the inside of the upper arm. The length of the scar varies depending on the exact contour that needs to be corrected but can be as far as the elbow. The skin is closed with dissolving sutures and a compression garment used over the top.