Brachioplasty

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What Is a Brachioplasty (Arm Lift)?

Brachioplasty, commonly referred to as an arm lift, is a surgical procedure designed to remove excess skin and fat from the upper arms. At Plano Plastic Surgery, board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Jaime Haidenberg performs arm lifts in our AAAASF accredited surgical suite in Plano, TX, helping patients achieve a more toned and proportionate appearance. It is particularly beneficial for individuals who have sagging skin due to significant weight loss, aging, or genetic predisposition.

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Brachioplasty Real Results

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*Results may vary per patient

Types of Brachioplasty:

Extended Brachioplasty:

This approach is for individuals who have significant excess skin that not only affects the arm but also extends into the side of the chest. The incision for an extended brachioplasty usually starts near the elbow and continues to the armpit, then extends along the side of the chest. This type of brachioplasty is common among individuals who have undergone massive weight loss.

Mini Brachioplasty:

Ideal for those who have a smaller amount of excess skin located near the armpit. The incision for a mini brachioplasty is made within the confines of the armpit, making the resultant scar less visible. This method is suitable for individuals whose skin laxity is limited to the upper portion of the arm.

Posterior Brachioplasty:

This procedure addresses the skin laxity at the back of the arms. The incision for a posterior brachioplasty is made on the inner, back portion of the arm, which makes the scar less visible when the arms are at the sides. It’s beneficial for individuals who are concerned about the appearance of the back of their arms, especially when wearing sleeveless outfits.
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Why Plano Plastic Surgery?

At Plano Plastic Surgery, our standard is excellence from the first consultation through every follow-up. Our surgical team brings decades of combined experience in cosmetic breast surgery, with a patient-centered approach that prioritizes safety, natural results, and genuine care.

All breast augmentation procedures at Plano Plastic Surgery are performed in our on-site AAAASF-accredited surgical suite — a credential that reflects the highest standards of facility safety and patient care. We customize every treatment plan to the individual patient, recognizing that goals, anatomy, and lifestyle are different for every person who comes through our doors.

Our team also has extensive experience with breast revision surgery, helping patients who have sought correction of results from prior procedures at other practices.

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State-of-the-Art Facilities

We prioritize an individualized approach, ensuring every consultation is thorough, personalized, and informative.

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Customized Treatment Approaches

Recognizing that each patient is unique, our treatments are tailored to individual needs and desired outcomes.

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Patient Care and Safety

Our team is uncompromising in ensuring the highest levels of patient safety and care at every stage of the journey.

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Commitment to Continuous Education

The medical field is ever-evolving, and our dedication to ongoing education ensures we stay at the forefront of advancements.

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Exceptional Results

Our commitment to excellence ensures results that consistently exceed expectations.

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Revisions

Both of these doctors have a combined experience of over 61 years and have vast experience with "revision surgery" with 100's of revisions performed to correct previous surgery that the patient was not happy with from a different doctor and practice.

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How It’s Done

The procedure begins with the administration of anesthesia to ensure patient comfort. Once the patient is adequately sedated, the surgeon makes a carefully planned incision. The length and pattern of this incision primarily depend on the amount and location of excess skin to be removed. For minimal skin excess, the incision may be concealed within the armpit. However, for more substantial skin removal, it could extend from the elbow, along the inner or back portion of the arm, and sometimes even onto the side of the chest.

Following the incision, excess fat in the arm can be directly excised or treated with liposuction. After fat removal, the underlying supportive tissues are tightened and reshaped using internal sutures. The skin is then smoothed over the new arm contour and excess skin is removed. The incisions are closed using absorbable sutures or stitches that will be removed within a week or two after the surgery. The entire procedure is meticulously done to ensure minimal scarring and optimal arm contouring.

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Who is a Good Candidate?

Candidates for brachioplasty are individuals who:

  • Are in good overall health and free from any conditions that might impede healing.
  • Have significant upper arm skin laxity.
  • Are at a stable weight and not significantly overweight.
  • Do not smoke or are willing to quit pre- and post-surgery.
  • Hold realistic expectations about the procedure’s outcomes.

 

Arm Lift Recovery and What to Expect

The recovery process for PAL is typically smoother than that of traditional liposuction, thanks to the advanced techniques utilized.

Immediate Post-Operative Phase:

Immediate Post-Operative Phase (1 to 2 weeks): Patients typically experience swelling, bruising, and some discomfort in the arms and underarm area. Compression garments are worn to reduce swelling and support the new arm contour. Drains may be placed temporarily to remove excess fluid.

First Week:

Compression garments or bandages will likely be wrapped around the treated areas to reduce swelling and aid in the skin’s retraction. It’s essential to keep the arms elevated as much as possible during this period to minimize swelling. Light walking is encouraged to promote blood circulation and prevent potential blood clot formation.

Mid Recovery Phase (Week 2-4):

Stitches dissolve or are removed during this period. Most patients resume light daily activities but should continue avoiding strenuous arm movements and heavy lifting. Swelling continues to subside.

Weeks 4-8 (Long-Term Recovery):

Patients can gradually return to regular exercise, including upper body activity, with the surgeon's guidance. Scarring begins to fade, a gradual process that continues for months. Scar treatments or silicone sheets may be recommended.

Potential Side Effects:

As with any surgery, potential side effects include infection, unfavorable scarring, numbness or change in sensation, and fluid accumulation. Regular post-operative check-ins with the surgeon will help monitor the healing process and address any concerns.

Final Results:

By around six months, the arms should look and feel settled, with full results, including scar maturation, visible within a year. Maintaining a stable weight helps preserve results long term.

FAQ

What is a brachioplasty?

Brachioplasty, commonly called an arm lift, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the upper arms to create a more toned, proportionate contour. It is often sought by patients after significant weight loss, or as skin laxity develops with age.

Plano Plastic Surgery offers three approaches: extended brachioplasty for significant excess skin extending toward the chest, mini brachioplasty for smaller amounts of skin near the armpit, and posterior brachioplasty for laxity at the back of the arm. Dr. Haidenberg will recommend the approach best suited to your anatomy during your consultation.

Most patients experience swelling and bruising for the first one to two weeks, gradually resuming normal activity over the following month. Final results, including scar maturation, become fully visible within about a year.