Eight Tips to Prepare for Brachioplasty
An upper arm lift, also known as brachioplasty, is a cosmetic procedure that tightens loose skin and reshapes the upper arm area. It can also incorporate liposuction to remove unwanted fatty deposits that often create a "bat wing" appearance. With dramatic weight loss or age, upper arm skin can become flabby and loose, which may cause Miami, FL women and men to feel self-conscious when wearing a bathing suit or sleeveless shirt. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Jeffrey LaGrasso will consult with patients considering this cosmetic procedure to explain the benefits it offers to help them achieve a toned, slender, more fit-looking appearance in the upper arm area.
If you are considering this cosmetic procedure, read on to learn how to prepare for your arm lift surgery, or feel free to call our office to schedule a one-on-one consultation with Dr. LaGrasso today.
Is arm lift surgery worth it?
Whether you are dealing with loose upper arm skin due to weight loss or the natural aging process, an arm lift can be the body contouring solution you need. Brachioplasty is a procedure that can remove excess skin and fat in the upper arms. Liposuction can also be incorporated to eliminate excess fatty tissue from the targeted area to enhance the contouring results. Every year, thousands of men and women undergo successful arm lift surgery and are extremely pleased with the outcome. By eliminating the dreaded "bat wing" appearance that often plagues women with age, a person's upper arm area can be restored to a tighter, firmer, more youthful appearance.
What should I do to prepare for arm lift surgery?
Arm lift surgery is considered major surgery and both arms are affected during recovery time. In most cases, it typically takes 1 – 2 weeks. For a smoother, quicker recovery, it is imperative to follow post-operative instructions provided by Dr. LaGrasso and get plenty of rest, and avoid strenuous activities that may involve lifting your arms over your head or lifting any weight. Patients will experience some weakness in their arms and hands at first, so being prepared beforehand is key to smooth brachioplasty recovery. Here are eight helpful tips to follow:
- Prefill post-op prescriptions and purchase necessary ointments to clean the incision areas
- Review your dietary and herbal supplements and medications with your plastic surgeon
- Arrange for transportation to and from the surgical facility
- Arrange for another adult to stay with you for at least 24 – 48 hours after surgery
- Prepare ready-to-eat foods that can easily be reheated for the first few days
- Have access to extra pillows for sleeping at night with arms propped up
- Since you will have limited mobility, have access to loose-fitting, button-up shirts for the first week after surgery
- Get plenty of sleep the night before your procedure
How long should I take off work?
When it pertains to brachioplasty, most patients generally take about 2 – 3 weeks off from work. If a patient works in an office environment or has a more sedentary job, they are more likely to return to their regular job duties in a few weeks. However, if a patient's job involves more physical exertion, such as heavy lifting or manual labor, they may need to take more time off work. In the months that follow arm lift surgery, swelling will subside, and scarring will be less pronounced. Over time, arm lift scarring will fade. However, it can take a year or more to become more flesh-tone or paler in color.
Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Jefferey LaGrasso, will ensure every patient leaves his office loving how they look. For more information on arm lift surgery, call our Miami, FL office today and let our experienced team help you.