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Brachioplasty / Arm Reduction
Has your skin become loose and flabby under your arm, no matter how much you lift? Have you stopped wearing sleeveless tops but wish you could? Do you have extra skin under your arms after losing a lot of weight? An arm lift, medically known as a brachioplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to remove unwanted skin and fat from the upper arms. It reshapes the arm to create a more toned and contoured appearance, addressing sagging skin that often results from significant weight loss, natural aging, or genetic factors.
The primary targeted area for an arm lift is the upper arm, specifically the region between the underarm and the elbow. This is where skin can sag or appear loose, often referred to colloquially as “bat wings.” The procedure focuses on tightening this skin, reducing excess fat if necessary, and reshaping the arm to provide a more youthful and streamlined look.
Other names for the procedure include:
After an arm lift, recovery is paramount to achieving the best results. Immediately post-surgery, arms are typically wrapped in compression garments to manage swelling and support the new shape. Mild discomfort, swelling, and bruising are standard, but medications provided by Dr Khan help alleviate these symptoms. Dr Khan will also provide you with specific instructions regarding general post-operative and scar care.
In the first week, patients are advised to elevate their arms, avoid strenuous tasks, and might require assistance with daily activities. Most can return to non-strenuous work within the week, but this varies individually. By the second to fourth week, swelling and bruising diminish significantly, though heavy lifting remains off-limits. Between one to two months post-surgery, the majority of swelling subsides. Patients can engage in light exercises, but direct sun exposure on the healing incisions should be avoided.
By the three-month mark, most patients are fully enjoying their arm lift results, resuming regular exercises with Dr Khan’s approval. Scars continue to fade, benefiting from scar-reducing treatments. Throughout the recovery, adhering to aftercare instructions from West Coast Plastic Surgery, attending follow-up appointments, maintaining a nutritious diet, staying hydrated, and avoiding smoking are essential for optimal healing.
After your first consultation with Dr Khan, he will be able to assess what procedure is perfect for you and will provide you with the cost for this personalised arm lift or brachioplasty procedure.
Generally, the cost of such procedures is influenced by several factors, including surgeon and anaesthesia fees, medical testing, post-surgery care, required medications, and regional cost of living. For a precise breakdown tailored to individual needs, scheduling a consultation with Dr Qadir Khan at West Coast Plastic Surgery is recommended. Here, patients can get detailed insights into the costs and explore financing or payment plan options. An arm lift is more than a physical enhancement; it’s a valuable investment in one’s self-confidence and overall well-being.
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An arm lift, or brachioplasty, is designed to refine the upper arm by removing sagging skin and unwanted fat, giving it a more toned appearance. The process starts with a comprehensive initial consultation with Dr Qadir Khan. During this session, patient goals are set, and a thorough examination of the arms is done to determine the surgical approach.
In preparation for the surgery, patients may undergo specific medical tests. It’s also recommended to halt certain medications and smoking. On the day of the surgery, anaesthesia, either local or general, is administered for comfort. The surgeon then makes an incision, typically inside the arm.
The arm’s reshaping involves removing excess fat, possibly using liposuction, and tightening the underlying supportive tissue. After contouring, the skin is smoothened, and surplus skin is excised. The incision is then closed with sutures. Post-operation, bandages are applied to surgical wounds on the arms, and sometimes drains are inserted to remove excess fluid.
After the procedure, patients receive detailed post-op care instructions, including wound care and activity restrictions. While some results are immediate, final outcomes emerge after swelling and bruising subside. Maintaining a stable weight and regular physical activity ensures the long-lasting benefits of the more sculpted arm appearance.
Undergoing an arm lift, or brachioplasty, offers a myriad of benefits that can profoundly impact both the physical appearance and the emotional well-being of the individual. Here are some of the comprehensive advantages of choosing this transformative procedure:
The primary benefit of an arm lift is the reduction of sagging skin, resulting in smoother skin and more toned-looking arms. The removal of excess skin and fat gives the arm a more youthful and refined appearance.
Many individuals who suffer from sagging arm skin feel self-conscious about their appearance, often avoiding sleeveless clothing or raising their arms. Following the surgery, many patients report a significant boost in self-confidence and comfort in various clothing styles and social situations.
Excess skin can lead to physical discomfort in some cases. It can cause skin irritations, rashes, or even pain due to chafing, especially in warmer months or during physical activities. An arm lift can alleviate these discomforts.
Post-surgery, many patients feel more confident wearing sleeveless tops, dresses, and swimwear, expanding their wardrobe choices and style preferences.
While no surgery can stop the aging process, the results of an arm lift are long-lasting. With a stable weight and a healthy lifestyle, the newly contoured arms can be maintained for years.
An arm lift can help balance the overall proportions of the body, especially if the individual has undergone significant weight loss and has excess skin in multiple areas. This results in a more harmonious and aesthetically pleasing silhouette.
While the primary aim is to address skin and fat, the tighter skin post-procedure can also better showcase the underlying muscle, offering a more defined appearance, especially when combined with regular exercise.
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As with any surgical procedure, there are a handful of potential risks and complications associated with arm lift surgery. Common risks include swelling, bruising, infection, bleeding, scarring, pain, and numbness. More rare complications might include blood clots, asymmetry, issues with wound healing, or an allergic reaction to anaesthetic. It’s crucial to discuss these potential risks with Dr Qadir Khan during your consultation so you can make an informed decision.
Scarring is inevitable with any surgery, including arm lifts. However, Dr Khan employs advanced surgical techniques to place incisions in inconspicuous areas, usually along the inner arm from the armpit to the elbow. Over time, with proper care, the scar associated with reducing excess skin and fat will fade and become less noticeable.
Typically, an arm lift is an outpatient procedure, meaning you can go home the same day after a few hours of observation. However, in certain cases or if combined with other procedures, an overnight stay might be recommended.
Most patients can return to non-strenuous work and daily activities within a week. However, heavy lifting and vigorous exercises should be avoided for 6 weeks or as advised by Dr Khan.
You will receive detailed post-operative care guidelines. These will include how to care for your surgical site, medications to apply or take orally, potential red flags to watch out for, and when to follow up with Dr Khan. It’s crucial to adhere to these instructions for optimal healing.
An arm lift surgery typically takes about 2-3 hours, but this can vary depending on the individual’s needs and if any additional procedures are being performed concurrently.
The results of an arm lift are long-lasting, especially when maintained with a stable weight and healthy lifestyle. While the procedure can counteract the effects of aging and weight fluctuations, it can’t stop them entirely. Over time, some natural sagging may recur, as cosmetic surgery such as arm lifts will not guarantee you will not lose skin elasticity.
The surgery can take place in a hospital or an accredited surgical facility, depending on various factors like the patient’s health, the surgeon’s preference, and the complexity of the procedure.
Yes, arm lift surgery requires anaesthesia to ensure the patient’s comfort and safety. The type, whether general or local with sedation, will be determined based on the procedure’s specifics and the patient’s overall health.
In most cases, arm lift surgery is considered a cosmetic procedure, and therefore not covered by Medicare. However, if the surgery is deemed medically necessary – for instance, due to significant discomfort or skin conditions caused by the excess skin following massive weight loss – it might be partially covered. It’s essential to consult with your insurance provider and Dr Khan’s office for more specifics.
There is no difference! “Arm lift” is the layman’s term, while “brachioplasty” is the medical term. Both refer to the surgical procedure designed to remove excess fat deposits and skin from the upper arms, resulting in a more toned appearance.
Remember, the best way to get accurate and personalised information about arm lift surgery is by scheduling a consultation with Dr Qadir Khan at West Coast Plastic Surgery. He and his team are committed to ensuring patients are well-informed and comfortable every step of the way.
Start your journey with us towards your desired body and face. Get all your doubts cleared with our Director and RACS-trained surgeon, Dr Qadir Khan before you decide to take baby steps towards a body that makes you proud. Contact us today if you’re looking for Perth arm lift surgery.
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