Excess skin on the upper arms can occur with aging and weight loss. It is not infrequent for patients following bariatric surgery to notice unsightly, hanging skin on their upper arms. An arm lift, also called a brachioplasty, can significantly improve this contour. By taking careful consideration of your anatomy and the quality of your skin, Dr. Schaefer strives to create a natural and more athletic contour to your arms.

Why consider a brachioplasty?

If you have maximized your weight loss and you are unable to lose the excess, hanging skin on your arms, a brachioplasty may be right for you. If you are unhappy with stretched out, excess skin that has not responded to weight loss efforts, excess skin can be removed from the upper arms.

Who is a good candidate for a brachioplasty?

Patients who are good candidates for a brachioplasty are:

Your initial consultation

A brachioplasty is a very personal decision. You will be able to discuss the details of the surgery in a one-on-one consultation with Dr. Schaefer. During this consultation, Dr. Schaefer will perform a thorough medical analysis and discuss your aesthetic goals in detail with you. If you are found to be a suitable candidate for surgery, he and his professional staff will help you understand the process.

What is a brachioplasty surgery like?

A brachioplasty surgery is usually done on an outpatient basis, so you should be able to return home soon after your procedure. You will be put under general anesthesia and the surgery will last approximately 2-1/2 hours.

Before the surgery begins, Dr. Schaefer will perform detailed markings to plan the surgery. During the operation, Dr. Schaefer will excise excess skin from the posterior aspect of your upper arms. Depending on the amount of excess, the scar can cross the armpit and extend onto the lateral chest wall. It may even extend down across the elbow. The incision line will be located on the posterior aspect of your arm. A drain will be placed to exit around your elbow on each side and the incisions will be closed with absorbable sutures. Dressings will be applied to the incisions and your arms will be wrapped with compressive bandages.

Recovery from brachioplasty

Dr. Schaefer employees methods to optimize your recovery and healing. After surgery, you will feel sore for several days. Dr. Schaefer will prescribe pain medication for postoperative pain control. You will experience some bruising and swelling. Bruising can last for a few weeks and most of the swelling will resolve after 4 weeks. You will notice some swelling in the arms that can last up to 4-6 months.

You should be able to return to work within 1-2 weeks after your surgery. During the recovery, Dr. Schaefer will recommend compression garments on your arms. Rest and sleep are important during the healing process. You will have follow-up examinations with Dr. Schaefer to monitor your progress.

Can I exercise after brachioplasty?

Your body is the best indicator as to when you can return to your regular workout routine. Returning to workouts too early can cause serious setbacks, like internal bleeding and skin separation. When in doubt, err on the side of waiting. We will typically recommend waiting at least 4 weeks before engaging in strenuous activity. Our team will advise you with your recovery plan.

Choosing a brachioplasty surgeon

Choosing the right surgeon for your brachioplasty, or any surgery for that matter, is of paramount importance.

It is vital for your plastic surgeon to have the right qualifications and credentials. Your surgeon should have board certification, be in good standing with the various medical boards, and have extensive experience performing brachioplasty.

Why Dr. Schaefer?

With his careful planning and problem solving approach, Dr. Schaefer customizes his strategy for the brachioplasty procedure to meet your specific goals. Through detailed personalization, Dr. Schaefer strives to create natural, proportional results.

Dr. Schaefer is known for his work in the Minneapolis community restoring patient’s pride and self confidence. Dr. Schaefer has been honored a BEST DOCTOR and BEST DOCTOR FOR WOMEN by the Minnesota Monthly Magazine. He was named a TOP DOCTOR FOR PLASTIC SURGERY by the Minneapolis St. Paul Magazine.