Brachioplasty vs Suction-Assisted Lipectomy for Arms
Suction-assisted lipectomy and brachioplasty are two very different surgical procedures. They are sometimes performed together, but they address different concerns. Choosing between them depends on whether your primary concern is loose skin, excess fat, or both.
In this article, Dr Bernard Beldholm, FRACS, explains the differences between brachioplasty and suction-assisted lipectomy, who is a candidate for each procedure, and why ultrasound-assisted suction lipectomy is his preferred technique when treating the arms.
What is Brachioplasty?
Brachioplasty is a surgical procedure that removes redundant skin from the upper arms. While some subcutaneous fat is usually excised with the skin, the main goal of brachioplasty is to tighten and reshape the arm by removing loose tissue.
- Best suited for patients with significant skin excess (often due to weight loss or ageing)
- Creates a firmer upper arm appearance
- Always leaves a scar, which varies in length depending on the surgical technique used
- Can be combined with suction-assisted lipectomy for a more comprehensive result
What is Suction-Assisted Lipectomy?
Suction-assisted lipectomy is designed to reduce localised fat deposits in the arms. Unlike brachioplasty, it does not remove redundant skin.
- Best suited for patients with good skin elasticity but excess arm fat
- Performed through very small incisions, leaving only tiny scars
- Does not address skin laxity
- Can be combined with brachioplasty if both fat and skin excess are present
Comparison: Brachioplasty vs Suction-Assisted Lipectomy
| Feature | Brachioplasty | Suction-Assisted Lipectomy |
|---|---|---|
| Main Purpose | Removes loose skin (some fat also removed) | Removes localised fat deposits |
| Best Candidates | Patients with significant skin excess due to weight loss, ageing, or heredity | Patients with firm skin but excess fat |
| Skin Tightening | Yes | Minimal to none |
| Scarring | Long scar along inner/upper arm (length depends on technique) | Small scars (few mm) from cannula insertion |
| Downtime | 1–2 weeks before return to work/driving, 3–4 weeks for most activities | Usually shorter than brachioplasty recovery |
| Risks | Includes scarring, bleeding, wound issues, fluid build-up | Includes contour irregularities, bruising, swelling |
| Combination Possible? | Yes – suction-assisted brachioplasty | Yes – often combined with brachioplasty |
Who is a Candidate for Brachioplasty?
- Individuals with redundant upper arm skin following weight loss, bariatric surgery, ageing, or hereditary factors
- Must be in good overall health and fit for surgery
- Should not be pregnant, breastfeeding, or smoking at the time of surgery
Who is a Candidate for Suction-Assisted Lipectomy?
- Patients with localised fat but firm, elastic skin
- Those who are otherwise healthy and at or near their stable weight
- Suitable for individuals who do not require skin excision
When Both Procedures Are Needed
Some patients present with both skin laxity and excess fat. In such cases, combining brachioplasty with suction-assisted lipectomy provides the most comprehensive outcome. This approach allows the surgeon to reduce fat deposits while excising and tightening loose skin.
Dr Beldholm’s Preferred Approach: Ultrasound-Assisted Suction Lipectomy
Dr Beldholm often combines brachioplasty with ultrasound-assisted suction lipectomy. This technique uses ultrasound energy to help loosen fat cells before they are removed with a suction cannula.
- Allows for smoother and more precise fat reduction
- May result in less bleeding and bruising compared to traditional suction lipectomy
- Complements brachioplasty by improving results when both skin and fat require treatment
Frequently Asked Questions
Will suction-assisted lipectomy tighten skin?
No. Suction-assisted lipectomy does not significantly tighten skin. Patients with poor skin elasticity may notice more loose skin after fat reduction alone.
Can exercise replace surgery?
Exercise can help reduce fat deposits, but it cannot remove redundant skin. Patients with significant laxity often require brachioplasty for a noticeable improvement.
How long is recovery?
- Brachioplasty: Many patients return to work and driving within 1–2 weeks, with most activities resuming in 3–4 weeks.
- Suction-assisted lipectomy: Recovery is usually shorter, but careful adherence to aftercare instructions is essential.
Will there be scars?
- Brachioplasty: Always leaves a scar, which varies depending on the chosen technique.
- Suction-assisted lipectomy: Leaves only a few very small scars at cannula entry points.
How do I maintain results?
Maintaining a stable weight, exercising regularly, and following a balanced diet helps preserve results. Natural ageing will still affect skin elasticity over time.
Will I need drains or compression garments?
A compression garment is usually worn after brachioplasty. Drains are not always required, but they may be placed temporarily in some cases.
Is bleeding normal after brachioplasty?
Minor pinpoint bleeding and fluid seepage can occur. Excessive bleeding is not expected and should be reviewed by your surgeon.
Key Takeaway
- Brachioplasty is best for treating redundant skin on the upper arms.
- Suction-assisted lipectomy is ideal for treating excess fat when skin elasticity is good.
- A combination may be appropriate if both issues are present.
The only way to determine which procedure is right for you is by booking a consultation with a qualified surgeon. At your appointment, Dr Beldholm will assess your arms, discuss your goals, and provide a personalised surgical plan.
