Preparing for Brachioplasty Surgery
If you are considering surgery to address loose skin on the upper arms, brachioplasty (arm lift) may be an option. Thinking about life after surgery is very different from the preparation required before the procedure. To move forward, there are important steps to take so that you are fully informed and ready.
This article will guide you through the process, from the first referral to recovery at home.
Step 1: Get a Referral from Your GP
If you have significant excess skin on your upper arms after weight loss, your first point of contact is your general practitioner (GP). While they may not specialise in body contouring surgery, they can provide a referral to see a surgeon who performs these procedures.
Step 2: Book a Consultation with Your Surgeon
During your consultation, your surgeon will discuss your concerns, examine your arms, and determine whether brachioplasty (arm lift) is suitable for you.
A typical consultation will involve:
- Asking about your symptoms, such as skin irritation or difficulty with clothing
- Reviewing your medical history and any current medications
- Discussing your goals and expectations
- Taking clinical photographs for surgical planning
- Explaining the surgical options available, such as mini brachioplasty, full brachioplasty, or extended brachioplasty, sometimes combined with suction-assisted lipectomy
Your surgeon will also explain the potential risks of surgery. These may include wound healing problems, infection, asymmetry, seroma, blood clots, or anaesthetic complications. Preparation such as avoiding smoking before and after surgery can help reduce risks.
Step 3: Receive Your Quote
After consultation, you will be provided with a cost estimate. This usually includes:
- Hospital fees
- Anaesthetist fees
- Surgeon’s fee
Step 4: Decide Whether to Proceed
You will then need to decide if you wish to move forward with brachioplasty (arm lift) surgery. Considerations include:
- Whether the costs are affordable for you
- Understanding and accepting the surgical risks
- Willingness to live with scars on the upper arms, which usually fade but are permanent to some degree
It may help to discuss your decision with family members or trusted confidants.
Step 5: Book Your Surgery Date
Brachioplasty surgery requires downtime for recovery. Most patients need at least two weeks away from work and driving. When scheduling, choose a date that allows sufficient time to heal.
Step 6: Sign the Consent Form
Before surgery, your surgeon will provide a consent form outlining the potential risks and complications. It is important that you read and understand this before signing.
Step 7: Follow Pre-operative Instructions
To prepare safely for surgery, you will usually be advised to:
- Stop smoking if applicable
- Complete any requested blood tests
- Avoid blood-thinning medications, certain supplements, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Arrange for help at home with meals, driving, and daily tasks during the first 1–2 weeks
- Prepare your recovery space with extra pillows, easy access to essentials, and ready-made meals
- Wear compression garments as directed
Coping with Recovery
Recovery after brachioplasty (arm lift) can involve discomfort, swelling, and limited mobility. Pain relief, rest, and following your surgeon’s guidance are key.
General recovery recommendations include:
- Taking prescribed medications as directed
- Staying well hydrated
- Wearing compression garments for several weeks
- Keeping arms elevated when resting
- Going for gentle short walks to reduce clot risk
- Avoiding strenuous activity or heavy lifting until cleared by your surgeon
- Protecting scars from sun exposure and using silicone treatments if recommended
It may take months for swelling to settle and for the final outcome to be visible.
Maintaining Your Results
To maintain your brachioplasty (arm lift) results long term:
- Aim for a stable weight
- Avoid smoking and excessive sun exposure
- Follow a balanced diet
- Resume regular physical activity once healed
