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Upper arm lift (brachioplasty)

Due to the natural ageing process, congenital weakness of the connective tissue or extreme weight loss, the skin or subcutaneous fatty tissue in the area of the lower part of the upper arm may sag.

Description

The sagging skin flaps are most visible when the arms are lifted horizontally – something that cannot be corrected by diet or exercise. The surgical upper arm lift is used when liposuction would not lead to the desired result.

The procedure

Before the operation, the arm is thoroughly examined and the surgical area or incision lines are precisely drawn. The spindle-shaped excision (cutting out a spindle-shaped area of skin or tissue) is usually the simplest option for upper arm lifting. Individual anatomical peculiarities may, however, require the surgical technique to be adapted, which will be discussed in detail.

The procedure is usually performed under sedation anaesthesia.

It can sometimes make sense to combine the procedure with liposuction, avoiding nerves, muscles and vessels with the utmost care. The wound is usually closed along the sulcus brachialis (an existing anatomical depression), so that the scar is as inconspicuous as possible.

Aftercare

After the operation, you will remain in our clinic for at least three hours for monitoring, after which you may be collected. The first check-up will take place the next day. You will be fitted with compression garments. After the operation, physical exertion, especially rappid and strenuous movements of the arms, as well as direct sunlight on the scars should be avoided. The skin stitches are usually removed after about two to three weeks, but this depends on the wound healing of each individual. During the following 4-6 weeks, you will wear a compression bandage both during the day and at night, which supports the healing process and additionally optimises the contour of the upper arms.