Understanding the Procedure
This procedure achieves reshaping of the upper arm area and improves their contour by removing excess skin and fat, which often cannot be improved through other means such as exercise. If there is a moderate amount of fat in the arms and good skin elasticity, the issue can usually be addressed with simple liposuction.
However, when skin sagging is also present due to weight loss or aging, and the skin hangs significantly, improvement is only possible surgically through an arm lift (brachioplasty).
The Procedure of the Operation
For mild to moderate sagging, correction is performed through a small incision at the edge of the armpit, without an additional longitudinal incision. The advantage of this approach is that it avoids the large incisions typical of traditional arm lift surgery and hides them near the armpit, where they are less visible. In this technique, liposuction is also combined to further enhance the aesthetic result.
For severe sagging that extends toward the elbow, an additional longitudinal incision along the inner surface of the arm is necessary. This incision is placed on the underside of the upper arm so that when the arms are in a horizontal position, it is not visible from any side.
The procedure lasts approximately 3 hours and is performed under general anesthesia. Hospitalization is usually outpatient, though in some cases an overnight stay may be required.
After the Procedure
Pain is temporary and mild, with possible numbness of the skin near the incisions, and less commonly, some swelling may occur. Return to work is usually possible within 2 weeks, and full activity can resume after one month. An elastic bandage in the form of a bolero extending just below the elbow is required for the next 2–3 weeks.
Results are visible immediately after the procedure but improve significantly over approximately six months. As long as body weight remains stable, the results are permanent, providing a firm and youthful appearance to the arm.
In addition to aesthetic improvement, there is also a significant enhancement in arm mobility, reduced sweating, and greater flexibility in clothing choices.
Results
