WHY LIVE WITH BAT WINGS WHEN YOU COULD GET AN ARM LIFT?

People suffering from obesity and other weight-related issues may be attempting a variety of solutions to lose weight and get in better shape. Unfortunately, losing weight can create its own problems.

After a sudden drop in body fat, skin with poor elasticity cannot shrink back down to fit the body’s new contours. Instead, it is left stretched and hanging. Pockets of stubborn fat are also often left behind.

One of the most prominent areas where this is noticeable is the upper arms. Sagging upper-arm tissue forms the appearance of a “bat wing” and can make a person look out of shape and older than their actual age.

Brachioplasty surgery, or an arm lift, is a common surgical technique that helps address bat wings. This relatively simple cosmetic procedure removes excess skin and fat from the arms and tightens the tissues to create a firmer shape.

PREPARING FOR YOUR ARM LIFT

As a patient, you can take steps weeks or months in advance to prepare for your surgery in order to help avoid complications. One of the most important tips to follow is quitting smoking months before the procedure. Smoking affects skin elasticity and slows down post-operative recovery.

Consult with Dr. Chevray weeks before the surgery so that he can conduct a thorough preoperative check-up. He will check your current health and pre-existing medical conditions and will assess your suitability for the operation.

Here are some common components of pre-operative check-ups:

• Basic tests and lab work
• X-rays of the arms
• Electrocardiogram
• Prescription of pre-certain medications

THE PROCEDURE AND WHAT TO EXPECT

The arm-lift procedure begins with Dr. Chevray marking your arms for the incisions that will be made. While there are many kinds of incisions possible depending upon the individual shape of the patient’s arm, one of the most common places for an incision is at your armpit and extending to the top of the elbow.

Anesthesia is also administered. The anesthesia that is given can be general or local depending upon the preference of the patient and the doctor.

After incisions are made, the excess skin is removed. The remaining skin is folded to give a tighter shape. Depending upon the amount of excess fat and the aesthetic goals of the patient, Dr. Chevray might also include a liposuction procedure to remove the fat.

AFTER YOUR ARM LIFT

It is advised to not move around or do any lifting for the first two weeks after the surgery. A compression garment is usually worn during the period of recovery to help the skin better conform to the new contours of the upper arm.

Depending on the fluid buildup, Dr. Chevray might choose to insert drains that will remove excess fluids from the area during post-operative care.

After a two-week period, you will begin settling into normalcy. Within six weeks, you will be completely healed and ready to show off your contoured upper arms.

SET UP YOUR CONSULTATION

Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Pierre Chevray has years of experience and will be happy to tell you more about brachioplasty. During your consultation, you will discuss the procedure in greater detail. Contact us to set up your consultation.