After we lose weight, we expect our bodies to take on a new shape. What we don’t expect is tons of loose, sagging skin hiding our newly toned and contoured bodies. When it comes to tightening skin, home remedies and laser treatments can only do so much. We’re here to help you banish that extra skin hanging from your arms, also called a “bat wing,” with brachioplasty.
What is Brachioplasty?
Brachioplasty, also popularly known as an arm lift, is a surgical cosmetic procedure in which excess skin, fat, and tissue are removed from the arm to reveal the arms’ true contour. This procedure is most common with patients who have either lost a considerable amount of weight in a short amount of time, or patients whose aging skin has lost elasticity over time.
What is Done in an Arm Lift?
An arm lift is typically performed under general anesthesia. During your procedure, Dr. DePerro will make an incision on the backside of your arm. This incision is typically made from armpit to elbow to create the sleekest appearance. Through this incision, liposuction will be performed on parts of the upper arm that still have stubborn pockets of fat before the skin is pulled tight against the muscles and excess skin and tissue is trimmed away.
What Can I Expect After Arm Lift Surgery?
Following your arm lift, you’ll be advised to wear a special compression garment that helps reduce the swelling and improve the final contours of your arms. The amount of downtime you will need ultimately depends on how you feel and your body’s natural healing process, but patients typically report taking about seven to 10 days off of work to return to their normal daily activities.
Tips for Brachioplasty Recovery
We understand that the recovery process for your surgery can sometimes sound even more daunting than the procedure itself. Because of this, Dr. DePerro wanted to share with you his top tips for Brachioplasty recovery.
- Plan ahead. This may seem like a no-brainer, but the more prepared you get for the recovery process, the easier that process is going to be. Make sure you arrange to take an appropriate amount of time off of work, have a close friend or family member around to help you get around your house, and make things easily accessible for the first week following your procedure.
- Call your hairstylist. This may sound like a weird one, but we promise you’ll be thanking us later. Lifting your arms following your brachioplasty can be uncomfortable for the first few weeks following your arm lift. Scheduling some appointments with your hairstylist in advance can ensure you get your hair washed and clean without having to lift a finger.
- Follow instructions carefully. Post-operative care instructions are put in place for a reason. Dr. DePerro specifically wrote down detailed instructions to help make your brachioplasty recovery as smooth as possible. Follow each of the listed instructions carefully and don’t be nervous to ask questions if you have any.
If you’re interested in learning more about how brachioplasty can help you look and feel your best, call us today to schedule your one-on-one consultation with Dr. DePerro.