Sagging skin underneath your arms is a telltale sign of ageing, as skin loses its elasticity as we age. It can also be the result of significant weight loss, as stretched skin may fail to regain its original tautness.
It can be frustrating and disheartening after losing weight to be left with folds of loose skin under the arms.
This can impact confidence and limit clothes choices. Some people opt for arm lift surgery (brachioplasty) to restore a smoother, younger-looking contour to their arms.
The procedure – what to expect
Arm lift surgery is performed under general anaesthetic. The surgeon makes a long incision between your elbow and armpit. The skin and fat are carefully separated from the underlying muscle and excess skin and fat is removed. You may also be given liposuction to remove any remaining fat. Skin and tissue is then lifted and stitched into place.
Drains are inserted to drain away fluid or blood and dressings are applied. Your surgeon will see you when you have come round from the anaesthetic to check that you have recovered sufficiently well to go home. You will then be discharged to continue recovering at home.
Post-surgery and aftercare
There can be some post-surgical pain but this is normally easy to control with painkillers. A week after surgery, you will be given an appointment to check the wound is healing well and to remove any sutures. You will be given a compression garment to help speed up your recovery and provide extra support to the wound.
You will need to wear this day and night for around six weeks. Bruising and swelling is normal for about six to eight weeks after surgery and you should avoid physical exercise during this time. You should be able to make a full return to normal activities within four to six month.
Minimal risks
As with all types of surgery, there are some risks and potential side-effects to arm lift surgery. Cosmetic surgeons recommend that you quit smoking prior to the procedure because smoking increases the risk of infection, blood clots and problems with wound healing.
Any infection can be treated with antibiotics although this can slow the healing process. There may be some bleeding around the scar area, and bruising and swelling is common.
How you’ll feel afterwards
Once the swelling and bruising have gone down and the wounds have healed, you will be able to judge the finished results.
Arm lift surgery is a commonplace procedure that produces excellent results.
“People who have this type of surgery report that it helps them to feel more confident and enables them to wear short sleeves and sleeveless tops where they were unable to before.” Mr Alok Misra
In some cases, self-consciousness about their arms prevents people from participating in certain sports such as swimming and tennis, so arm lift surgery not only helps them to feel better but it enables them to get fitter too.
Like all types of cosmetic surgery, it is important to think carefully before going ahead and to do your homework. Look for a reputable surgeon and ask to see before and after photos as well as client testimonials.
Contact Riverside Clinics for an appointment if you are interested in finding out more about arm lift surgery.
