ARM LIFT (BRACHIOPLASTY)

What is Brachioplasty?

Brachioplasty (or arm lift) is a specialized plastic surgery procedure that permanently treats skin laxity and excess fat in the upper arms. It is the only effective solution for addressing the appearance of “bat wings,” restoring harmony, firmness, and a more youthful contour to your body.

What problem does Brachioplasty solve?

With brachioplasty, excess skin and subcutaneous fat tissue are removed from the inner and/or posterior surface of the arms. Over time, due to aging or major weight fluctuations, the skin loses its elasticity and begins to sag. This procedure reverses that process:

• Removes excess, loose skin.
• Eliminates localized fat (often combined with liposuction).
• Tightens the arm, reduces its circumference, and improves its overall appearance.

Who is the ideal candidate for Brachioplasty?

Brachioplasty is suitable for both women and men who experience:

• Significant skin laxity in the arms, often after massive weight loss (e.g., after bariatric surgery).
• The appearance of “bat wings,” where the skin hangs noticeably.
• Arm contour deformities that do not improve with diet or exercise.

Additionally, the ideal candidate should be in good general health, have a stable body weight in recent months, and most importantly, have realistic expectations, understanding the nature of the resulting scars.

What are the advantages of Brachioplasty?

Brachioplasty is one of the most rewarding body procedures, offering multiple benefits:

• Dramatic tightening: Permanently eliminates sagging skin.
• Contour refinement: Creates slimmer, toned, and symmetrical arms.
• Improved skin texture: May reduce stretch marks and improve the appearance of cellulite.
• Boost in self-confidence: Patients feel more comfortable wearing sleeveless clothing or swimwear.
• Long-lasting results: Results are long-term if body weight remains stable.

What techniques are used in Brachioplasty?

Dr. Floros selects the appropriate technique based on the degree of skin laxity and the amount of excess fat. The main techniques include:

• Mini Brachioplasty:
• Ideal for mild to moderate laxity.
• The incision is limited, usually placed within the armpit (a small curved incision) and is almost completely hidden.
• Often combined with liposuction for optimal contouring.

• Full Brachioplasty:
• Required for severe laxity and excess skin (typically after major weight loss).
• The incision extends along the inner arm, from the armpit to the elbow.
• The scar is placed along the natural color transition of the skin, on the inner/posterior arm, making it less visible when the arms are in a natural position.

How is the Brachioplasty procedure performed?

The brachioplasty procedure includes:

• Duration: Approximately 1–3 hours, depending on complexity and whether liposuction is included.
• Anesthesia: Usually light general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation, depending on the extent of the procedure and patient comfort.
• Procedure: Carefully planned incisions are made, excess skin and fat are removed, and tissues are sutured using absorbable stitches, which do not require removal.

What does recovery after Brachioplasty involve?

Brachioplasty is a safe procedure with a relatively short recovery time, thanks to modern techniques:

• First days: Mild discomfort for 4–5 days, fully controlled with standard painkillers. Mild swelling and bruising may occur and gradually subside.
• Compression garment: Wearing a special compression garment is necessary for about one month to reduce swelling and support skin tightening.
• Return to activities:
• Return to work: 3–4 days
• Driving: 7–10 days
• Full recovery: 10–15 days
• Heavy lifting/intense exercise: Avoid for 2 weeks, resume gradually after about 1 month

Are there risks or possible complications?

Brachioplasty is considered a procedure with a very low complication rate, especially when performed by an experienced plastic surgeon. Possible complications are rare and include:

• Scars: Permanent but strategically placed (inner/posterior arm). In some cases, healing irregularities such as hypertrophic scars may occur, requiring close postoperative monitoring and early treatment.
• Infection/Hematoma: As with any surgery, there is a minimal risk, reduced with proper antiseptic protocols and preventive antibiotics.

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Arm Lift (Brachioplasty)
Dr. Konstantinos Floros
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Dr. Konstantinos Floros was born in Athens, studied Medicine at the University of Thessaloniki, and specialized in Plastic Surgery in the United Kingdom. He has participated in specialized aesthetic surgery seminars in London and New York. In Greece, he practices privately with a focus on aesthetic plastic surgery and modern applications of cosmetic medicine and anti-aging. He has served as a Plastic Surgery registrar at the university hospitals Queen Mary’s University Hospital in London and Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge.

Dr. Konstantinos Floros

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