This is an operation during which we remove the excess skin and fat from the arm and the underlying supportive tissue in order to provide a fine, youthful shape to the area.
Over time, the skin on the arm area lose elasticity resulting to sagging development and loss of the solid structure that the arm had during the adolescence.
Am I the right candidate for a Brachioplasty?
Candidates for Arm lift surgery are:
Women with excess skin on the arm and armpit
Women after massive weight loss
Women with excess fat in the arm area
Where are the incisions placed in Brachioplasty?
That depends on the degree of the problem. Usually there are 3 categories:
1st : Women with excess fat formation and a slight skin sagging. In this case we have no incisions at all. The extra fat is removed by a special ultrasound device (vaser). A procedure that also helps in the prevention of further contracture and sagging of the skin.
2nd : Women with mild excess fat formation and a slight skin sagging. In this case we have a combination of liposuction with a small incision under the armpit.
3rd : Women with extensive skin relaxation. In this case the removal of loose and drooped skin is made by an incision to the inner part of the arm. Through this incision excess skin and fatty tissue are removed in order to form a more youthful and tight arm. The scars start to gradually fade out and by the appliance of special ointments and silicone leaves they smoothen in such a degree that they are no longer a problem.
Is the result is permanent;
Absolutely YES.
The result is permanent and through a balanced diet and exercise it lasts for many years (decades).
Is brachioplasty combined with other surgical operations?
For even more impressive results, Brachioplasty can be combined with any surgical operation concerning the body.
Before surgery
Smoking cessation is recommended as well as cessation of receiving aspirin, anti-inflammatory and nutritional supplements, and vitamin supplements because they effect the blood clotting mechanism and cause bleeding.
Visit to Dr. Kretsis
During your first visit to Dr. Kretsis he will assess the excess skin formation, any signs of stretch marks as well as the excess of fatty tissue.
He will decide in which of the 3 surgical categories you belong. Furthermore he will be fully informed about your medical history, any medication that you might be receiving, any allergies that you might have as well as if you are planning a future pregnancy or another surgical operation.
Advantages of Brachioplasty
Removes permanently the sagging skin and results to the reduction of the arm’s diameter.
Increases our confidence and our image.
Brachioplasty complications
Although it's very rare we might have hematoma, infection, hypertrophic scars and slight swelling in the upper limbs which subsides over the weeks.
The surgery
The operation is performed, according to the extent of the problem, under local anesthesia and neuroleptic anesthesia (sedation) or general anesthesia.
The patient leaves the hospital 3-4 hours after surgery completion without any tubes only with a slight ligature.
The recovery after Brachioplasty
The patient can return to everyday activity from the very next day. There is a slight swelling which subsides in 10-15 days.
It is advisable for the patients not lift weights for a period of 2 weeks after the surgery. They can return to work after 3-4 days and are allowed to drive after 7-10 days.
The sutures are not removed as they are absorbable.
The use of special ointments and silicone leaves is recommended after two weeks in order to provide a best quality to the scars’ surface.
In conclusion
Brachioplasty is a surgical operation that corrects effectively the sagging and drooping of the area, providing a firm youthful arm.
In Vk Institute of Aesthetic and Plastic Surgery we use the most advanced techniques of the Plastic Surgery field and through a personalized approach we choose the most suitable method and technique for a natural and long-lasting effect.