Duration
90-120 minutes
Anaesthesia
General
Hospitalization
1 night
Return to society
7 days

Brachioplasty is a surgical procedure that aims to eliminate the cutaneous excess in the brachial region. Aging and weight loss inevitably produce a cutaneous excess, especially in the brachial region where this defect is more visible. This defect may be disabling, limiting patients in daily activities, dressing and social life. Brachioplasty aims to remove the excess of cutaneous and subcutaneous tissue to restore a pleasant profile of the arms and a proper skin tone.


The procedure
Brachioplasty is performed under general anesthesia and requires about 90 minutes depending on the severity of tissue excess. This procedure can be effectively associated to a light liposuction to remove localized fat and achieve the desired contour.

The scar is planned at the lower surface of the arm. Scar length should be discussed with the patient: longer scars enable a better removal tissue excess although they are more visible. Surgical modalities should be therefore discussed along with patient to define realistic treatment goals.


Post-operative
A compressive garment is applied for 1-2 weeks. Drains are kept in site for 3-7 days and consist of tubes made of soft silicone that are removed painlessly.

The patient could experience swelling and bruising of the arms. These symptoms usually regress in one month, although in some cases may persist for more (up to three months).

Return to normal daily activities is allowed one week after surgery. Sports and intense physical activities can be resumed 30 days after surgery.