The arm lift or brachioplasty procedure used to
eliminate the condition known
as batwing deformity, in which there is excess skin and fat under the arms.
While the surgery can effectively tighten the skin of the upper arms, if you
have had a mastectomy you may not be good candidate for an arm lift: if your
lymph glands were damaged during mastectomy surgery, brachioplasty can
leave you with permanently swollen arms.
Liposuction is sometimes used to remove fat from under the arm before the
excess skin is excised.
The arm lift incision runs all the way from the armpit to the elbow on the
inside of the arm. Those who are considering brachioplasty must understand
that they will be left with long scars on the insides of their arms.
Following surgery, a dressing is applied and your arms are wrapped in elastic
bandages.
Risks include swelling, bruising, bleeding, infection, scarring and numbness
which may be permanent. The biggest drawback is the resulting heavy scar
that runs down the inside of your arm. Most patients find it necessary to wear
long sleeved clothing after surgery to hide the scar.
If the lymphatic vessels are damaged during the operation, permanent
swelling will occur. This is rare. Bruising and swelling will be marked for at
least two weeks and you will need painkillers for the first few days. The
compression garment you are given must be worn for a week or two. While
most people return to work after a week, you should avoid lifting anything
heavy until the incisions are fully healed.
Click here for more information on Brachioplasty (Arm Lift)
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Plastic Surgery Specialists Inc.
Boston
Plastic Surgery
332 Washington St., Suite 215
Wellesley, MA 02481
Phone: 781-431-7340; Fax: 781-431-7342
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