Arm/Thigh Lift Boston plastic surgeon, Dr. Del Vecchio

Brachioplasty, known more commonly as an "arm lift," is a surgical procedure to remove excess skin and fat from the upper arms; in the thigh the same effect applies. The procedure can dramatically reduce the appearance of hanging skin. But bear in mind, it does produce a permanent scar, depending on the extent of the original problem and the surgery required to correct it.

The best candidates for brachioplasty
The best candidates for brachioplasty are men or women who are in relatively good shape but are bothered by a large fat deposit or loose arm/leg skin that won't respond to diet or exercise. The surgery is particularly helpful to people who have undergone massive weight loss after gastric bypass surgery. Loss of skin elasticity in older patients, which frequently occurs with slight obesity, can also be improved.

All plastic surgery carries some uncertainty and risk
Thousands of brachioplasties are performed successfully each year. When done by a qualified plastic surgeon who is trained in body contouring, the results are generally quite positive. Nevertheless, there are always risks associated with surgery and specific complications associated with this procedure.

Planning your surgery
In your initial consultation, your surgeon will evaluate your health, determine the extent of fat deposits in your arms/legs, and carefully assess your skin tone. Be sure to tell your surgeon if you smoke, and if you're taking any medications, vitamins, or other drugs.

Your surgeon should work with you to recommend the procedure that is right for you and will come closest to producing the desired body contour.

Preparing for your surgery
If you smoke, plan to quit at least one to two weeks before your surgery and not to resume for at least two weeks after your surgery. Avoid overexposure to the sun before surgery, especially to your arms/legs and do not go on a stringent diet, as both can inhibit your ability to heal. If you develop a cold or infection of any kind, your surgery will probably be postponed.

You should arrange for someone to drive you home after your surgery, and to help you out for a day or two after you leave the hospital, if needed.

Where your surgery will be performed
Many surgeons perform brachioplasties in an outpatient surgical center or an office-based facility. Others prefer the hospital, where their patients can stay overnight. Dr Del Vecchio prefers the safety of a hospital to perform brachioplasties. Typically, these procedures are done in an outpatient setting.

Types of anesthesia for abdominoplasty
Dr Del Vecchio performs brachioplasty for patients who are under general anesthesia, administered by an anesthesiologist, so you'll sleep through the operation. Complete brachioplasty usually takes one to two hours, depending on the extent of work required.

After your surgery
For the first few days, your arms/legs will probably be swollen and you're likely to feel some pain and discomfort which can be controlled by medication. Depending on the extent of the surgery, you may be released within a few hours or you may have to remain hospitalized overnight.

Getting back to normal after brachioplasty
It may take you weeks to feel like your old self again. Some people return to work after one week, while others take two weeks to rest and recuperate.

Exercise will help you heal better. Even people who have never exercised before should begin an exercise program to reduce swelling, lower the chance of blood clots, and tone muscles. Vigorous exercise, however, should be avoided until you can do it comfortably.

Your scars may actually appear to worsen during the first three to six months as they heal, but this is normal. Expect it to take nine months to a year before your scars flatten out and lighten in color. While they'll never disappear completely, arm/leg scars are on the inner portion of the arms/legs making them less noticeable.

To schedule your consultation with Dr. Del Vecchio please click here or call (617) 830-1464.