An arm lift can improve the contour of your arms and make you feel confident in any kind of top. At OAS Plastic Sugery office in Costa Rica we can help you achieve your goals.
WHAT IS AN ARM LIFT (BRACHIOPLASTY)?
An Arm Lift, otherwise known as Brachioplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes loose, sagging skin from the underarm. The goal of an Arm Lift is to proportionally contour the arm to match the rest of the body. The skin that is removed typically does not respond to diet or exercise. Both thin and heavy people can be candidates for an Arm Lift. Aging can cause sagging skin, but younger patients may also seek a Brachioplasty procedure due to genetics or recent weight loss.
CANDIDATES FOR AN ARM LIFT
A Brachioplasty procedure is reserved for men and women who experience sagging, drooping skin on the underarms or armpit region but are unable to tone them through exercising. Muscles can be toned, but loose skin can only conform and shape to a newly defined arm so much. When the limit of retraction is reached, people are left with drooping skin that only an Arm Lift can fix.
Most people who encounter this have experienced a significant reduction in weight. Others see a change in their skin elasticity due to aging. People seeking to undergo an Arm Lift should be at a stable body weight relative to their body structure and height. All candidates must be in good health before considering an Arm Lift.
Consult with Dr. Suarez to see if you are eligible for this procedure.
ARM LIFT TECHNIQUES
The type of Arm Lift you undergo will depend on your specific case and desired results. The technique will be decided as a team effort by both you and Dr. Suarez during your consultation.
STANDARD BRACHIOPLASTY
A Standard Brachioplasty is performed with an incision that runs from the elbow to the top of the armpit. It is made on the back side of the arm so as to minimize visibility. Once the appropriate amount of sagging excess skin and fat are removed, the skin is redraped, tightened, and closed with sutures. The resulting scar is not visible from front view and will fade overtime.
EXTENDED BRACHIOPLASTY
Also referred to as L-shaped Brachioplasty, the Extended Brachioplasty uses an L-shaped incision that runs from the elbow, down the arm, and ends at the base of the armpit. Underarm skin is excised and tightened as well as skin on the sides of the chest. This technique is ideal for those who have recently lost a significant amount of weight since there is only so much natural skin tightening can accomplish.
MINI BRACHIOPLASTY
A Mini Brachioplasty is reserved for those who only need minimal assistance in sagging underarm skin. This incision is made in the armpit or right above the armpit. With this limited repair, the incision is much smaller than a Standard or Extended Brachioplasty and is hidden in the underarm region. A Mini Brachioplasty will not be suitable for those who need a large amount of excess skin removed. Dr. Suarez´s expertise will decide if this is the right procedure for you. He will assess the quality of your skin, your natural arm shape, body type, and aesthetic goals in order to choose the right technique for you
PREPARATION
Some steps need to be completed prior to your surgery to ensure optimal results. Specific tests and examinations will need to be completed; these will be determined by Dr. Suarez. Smoking should be avoided at least 4-6 weeks prior to your procedure, including 3 weeks afterward as well. Do not take anti-inflammatory drugs or herbal medications before surgery; these increase bleeding.
All prescriptions given by Dr. Suarez should be filled prior to your surgery so you have them immediately afterwards. The night before your procedure you will have to shower with an antibacterial soap. Do not eat or drink anything after midnight the day of your procedure. Make sure you wear or bring a loose fitting shirt that you do not have to pull over your head, you want something that you can easily wrap around yourself as your arm motion will be very limited for a while. You will be sent home the same day as your surgery, so have a family member or friend drive you home; you will not be able to drive yourself
PROCEDURE
Depending on the technique performed, a Brachioplasty procedure typically takes between 1-2 hours. It is done on an outpatient basis under local or general anesthesia. On some occasions results can be greatly heightened if paired with Liposuction. Each technique is different, but the basic steps are all the same.
RECOVERY
Both of your arms will be wrapped in a compression garment or bandaging; this reduces the amount of swelling. You may need to wear drainage tubes to catch any excess fluids, and if so Dr. Suarez will give you specific instructions on how to take care of them. Slight numbness or tingling for the first week or two is normal and subsides with time. Dr. Suarezwill prescribe you pain medication and anti-nausea medication if necessary; you should take these as instructed.
The week after your procedure do not shower; sponge baths are okay until notified otherwise. Drains and bandaging are typically removed in a week at your follow-up appointment. At the follow-up appointment Dr. Suarez will also assess the rate of your healing and adjust instructions appropriately. Normal activities can be resumed 3-7 days after your appointment. Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities for about 6 weeks.
RESULTS
Results will vary for each individual case, but the large majority of patients who undergo a Brachioplasty are ecstatic about their results. Many patients experience a profound increase in confidence as they are able to wear short sleeved shirts and tank tops and not feel self-conscious or give it a second thought. The arms become slimmer, toned, and more defined.
Improved results can be seen immediately after your procedure, although there will be some swelling. Final results can be seen in less than 3 months. An Arm Lift creates beautifully defined, aesthetically proportionate arms for those who have struggled with excess skin. Results will last as long as you maintain a healthy lifestyle in order to ensure upheld toning. An Arm Lift cannot prevent against natural sagging of the skin due to aging.
COST
The price of a Brachioplasty procedure depends on the extent of your specific case. Undergoing additional procedures at the same time will alter the cost as well. Dr. Suarez can provide you with an estimate quote during a private consultation. Schedule a consultation and let us help you begin your journey to beautiful, slim arms.