Our hospital’s new Consultant Plastic Surgeon, Mr Christopher Macdonald answers our patients’ most frequently asked questions about brachioplasty; a body contouring procedure to remove loose skin and fat from the upper arms.
What is brachioplasty (upper arm lift)?
Brachioplasty is another term for an upper arm lift. There are a couple of different options for this procedure. The ‘short scar’ technique is where a small incision is made in the armpit that allows a little bit of tightening of skin. But most patients that I see need a full brachioplasty, which is where all the skin from the inner, upper arm is removed, tightened and combined with liposuction.
Brachioplasty surgery has been around for several years and has evolved to be a combined procedure of liposuction and skin excision. I've been performing this for a number of years and know that we get some fantastic results for our patients here at Benenden Hospital.
Could you describe a typical brachioplasty patient?
Most patients who have brachioplasty surgery have got excess skin or fat on their upper arms. This can be a wide spectrum; from very small amount you can nip out, to quite a large amount of excess skin.
Sometimes there is so much excess skin that we must move down onto the chest wall as well. But the common theme for all these patients is the way they feel about the excess skin and how it is negatively impacting their body confidence.
How can self-pay patients access brachioplasty?
It's very easy for patients to book a consultation with me. You can call our Private Patient team directly on 01580 363158 or, if you prefer, book your consultation using our online booking tool.
When should I book a consultation for brachioplasty?
Once you’ve started your weight loss journey, I'd be happy to see you for a consultation. However, I recommend waiting a minimum of three months before having a proper conversation where we set goals. I don’t operate on anyone until they’ve had a stable weight for at least six to twelve months.
Could you tell us about the arm lift journey from consultation to recovery?
Once you’ve contacted the hospital, a member of the team will arrange an appointment for you. During the initial consultation we’ll discuss exactly what the surgery involves, your goals and what the procedure involves. After that, we’ll have two further consultations and then book you in for surgery.
After your surgery, you’ll need to stay in hospital for one night, although - occasionally - patients do go home on the same day. Your recovery will take a couple of weeks.
Can I have a tummy tuck and arm lift at the same time?
It's very easy to combine body contouring surgeries, for example an arm lift with a tummy tuck or with a breast reduction. I wouldn't normally operate on more than two areas at a time.
The advantage of combining procedures is that you only have one block of recovery time. It also works out slightly cheaper, but you do need to have a bit of extra support at home while you're recovering from the combined operations.
What effect could brachioplasty have on my mental health?
Brachioplasty can make a very big difference to the way that you feel about yourself. Having excess skin in the upper arm is something that's quite visible to some people and people will design their wardrobes to try to hide this. This procedure allows you to be more body confident and having more freedom in your choices can really make a big difference.
Brachioplasty (arm lift) in Kent
We offer discreet treatment in a clean and calm environment in the heart of the Wealden countryside. Patients are supported by our experienced Consultant Plastic Surgeons and clinical teams.
Book a consultation today by completing our online booking form or by contacting our Private Patient Team via Livechat or on 01580 363158.
Published on 06 January 2022