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Fat deposits and skin laxity in the upper part of the arm and armpit are common, even in the absence of obesity. Moderate fat deposition can be treated with arm liposuction with minimal scarring in the armpit. The amount of liposuction is aesthetically limited by the ability of the skin to shrink down, as additional sag created by liposuction can be more bothersome than excess bulk. Liposuction of the arms can be accomplished with sedation and local anesthesia. Postoperative compression is needed for approximately one month. As with all liposuctions, swelling can obscure the final result for months.
A brachioplasty, removal of excess skin and fat, may be necessary to rejuvenate arms with excessive, hanging skin, especially after significant weight loss. The scarring may be limited to a transverse scar in the armpit, but typically requires a longitudinal scar down the inner arm. This scar is planned to be masked when the arms are at one’s side but may be visible when the arms are elevated. A brachioplasty is an outpatient procedure done under local or general anesthesia. Suction drains are necessary for larger excisions. Most patients return to work at 1-2 weeks. Exercise should be avoided for at least 3 weeks and then slowly resumed with no strenuous activities for 6 weeks.
All of the descriptions for the various procedures are condensed from the text of the upcoming textbook written by Dr. Christopher Park and Dr. Malcolm Marks and are copyrighted, "The Artistry of Plastic Surgery: Exploring the Experience” . |
