Overview
Brachioplasty, also known as an arm lift, is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to correct sagging skin on the inner arms. Over time, the skin can lose its firmness and develop excess skin that may be visible when the arms are moved or raised.
This relaxation can occur in various situations:
- as the skin ages naturally
- after significant weight loss
- following bariatric surgery
- after repeated weight fluctuations
When the skin loses its ability to retract, non-surgical treatments are generally insufficient to correct excess skin. In these cases, an arm lift can provide a lasting improvement in the contour of the arms.
The goal of the procedure is to achieve firmer, more shapely arms that are better proportioned to the body.
In Paris, Dr. Alexandre Vairinho offers personalized care following a comprehensive morphological analysis to determine the most appropriate technique for each patient.
Explanation of the technique
A brachioplasty involves removing excess skin from the inner side of the arm and tightening the underlying tissues to improve the shape and contour of the arm.
The procedure corrects the appearance sometimes described as “drooping arms” or “sagging arms,” which is particularly noticeable when the arms are raised.
The goal of the surgery is to achieve a natural and proportionate result, taking into account the patient's overall body type.
Principles of Brachioplasty
A brachioplasty involves several surgical procedures that may be combined depending on the patient’s anatomy and the extent of skin laxity.
The intervention may include, among other things:
- the removal of excess skin on the inner side of the arm
- skin tightening, which helps restore a more toned appearance
- additional liposuction when there is also excess fat
- contouring of the upper arm to achieve a more harmonious silhouette
The technique used is tailored to each patient, based on:
- the amount of excess skin
- skin quality
- the possible presence of excess fat
- of the desired result
The goal is to achieve firmer, more shapely arms that complement your figure.
Location of scars
Like any skin-removal surgery, a brachioplasty results in a scar.
It is most often located on the inner side of the arm, in an area that is relatively inconspicuous when the arms are at rest.
Depending on the degree of skin laxity, the scar may:
- remain confined to the armpit in mild cases
- extend along the inner side of the arm, from the armpit toward the elbow, when there is a larger amount of excess skin
The length of the scar therefore depends directly on the amount of skin to be removed.
Over time, the scar gradually fades, although it remains permanent. How it heals depends on several factors, including skin quality and post-operative care.
Overview of the procedure
The process of undergoing an arm lift (brachioplasty) begins with a specialized consultation to assess the shape of the arms and the extent of skin laxity.
During this consultation, a clinical examination is performed to assess skin quality, the extent of excess skin, and the possible presence of associated excess fat. This evaluation helps determine the most appropriate surgical technique and establish realistic goals for the procedure.
You will receive detailed medical information and a personalized quote, in accordance with the legal cooling-off period. Medical photographs may be taken to facilitate preoperative analysis and monitoring of results.
Before the procedure, a preoperative evaluation is ordered and a consultation with the anesthesiologist is scheduled.
A brachioplasty is performed in a clinic under general anesthesia. The procedure involves removing excess skin from the inner arms to tighten the tissues and reshape their contours. When necessary, liposuction may be performed at the same time to improve the contour of the arms.
The procedure typically lasts between 1.5 and 2 hours, depending on the extent of skin laxity and the procedures involved.
BEFORE / AFTER
Postoperative Care and Expected Results
After the procedure, a period of gradual recovery is necessary. In the first few days following surgery, it is common to experience:
- swelling of the arms
- bruises
- a feeling of tension
- une gêne lors de l’élévation des bras
- temporary fatiguetemporary fatigue
An arm compression garment may be prescribed for several weeks to aid in healing and optimize skin retraction.
Activities are gradually resuming :
- light activities: after a few days
- sedentary work: generally after 10 to 15 days
- sports or activities that involve using the arms: usually after 4 to 6 weeks
Regular post-operative follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor healing and the progress of the results.
Brachioplasty helps achieve firmer, more shapely arms that are better proportioned to the rest of the body. The expected benefits include:
- reduction in sagging skin
- arm contouring
- greater ease in choosing clothes
- improved aesthetic appeal
The results become more apparent over the months following the procedure, as swelling subsides and the tissues soften.
The scar, which is usually located on the inner side of the arm, fades over time but is permanent. Maintaining a stable weight helps ensure long-lasting results.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions About Brachioplasty
No. Its primary purpose is to remove excess skin. Liposuction may be performed in conjunction with the procedure to reduce localized fat deposits if necessary.
The scar is located on the inner side of the arm, an area that is generally not very visible. Its length depends on the extent of the initial sagging.
Yes, liposuction is often performed in conjunction with this procedure when there is excess fat in addition to sagging skin.
Yes, provided that your weight remains stable and the tissues undergo natural aging.
It is generally possible to resume sports activities after about 4 to 6 weeks, depending on how you recover and your post-operative recommendations.
>> This page is intended to provide general information. Only a consultation with Dr. Vairinho will allow for an accurate assessment of your situation and the recommendation of an appropriate treatment plan. A personalized quote is provided only during a consultation.
