Types of Brachioplasty Surgery in Newcastle

Brachioplasty, also known as arm lift surgery, is not a one-size-fits-all operation. There are several surgical techniques available, each with a different incision pattern and degree of tissue removal. The right approach depends on the amount of excess skin and fat present, as well as the patient’s overall body type and health.

Why are there different types of brachioplasty?

Patients can present with different amounts of loose skin and fat in the upper arms. Contributing factors include ageing, weight changes, genetics, and skin elasticity. Because of this, brachioplasty procedures are tailored to suit individual needs.

While the surgical approach differs, the overall goal of brachioplasty is to remove redundant skin and improve the arm’s shape and definition.

Types of Brachioplasty

Minimal Incision Brachioplasty (Mini Brachioplasty)

This procedure, also called a limited or short-scar brachioplasty, is performed through a small incision placed in the armpit.

• Best suited to patients with mild skin laxity
• Removes a limited amount of skin and fat
• Offers subtle improvements, but does not significantly change the overall arm shape

Because the improvement is modest, some surgeons may not routinely recommend this approach.

Standard or Full Brachioplasty

A standard brachioplasty is one of the most common techniques for patients with more significant laxity.

• The incision typically runs from the armpit to the elbow
• Can be positioned along the inner or back surface of the arm
• Allows for the removal of a larger amount of skin and underlying tissue

This technique is often considered for people who have lost a considerable amount of weight and are left with loose tissue along the arms.

Extended Brachioplasty

An extended brachioplasty is performed when excess skin continues from the upper arm onto the chest wall. This is often seen in people after major weight loss.

• The incision extends from the elbow, through the armpit, and onto the side of the chest
• Removes a greater area of skin and fat compared with other techniques
• Results in a longer scar but addresses both the arms and the side chest wall

This option may be considered for patients with extensive tissue laxity.

Brachioplasty with Fat Reduction

While removing excess skin also reduces some fat, some patients may have additional areas of localised fat in the upper arm, armpit, or lateral chest wall. In these cases, fat reduction methods may be combined with brachioplasty.

• May refine the overall arm shape and adjacent regions
• Can assist in achieving a more balanced appearance
• Performed during the same operation as the brachioplasty

Scarring After Brachioplasty

Scarring is unavoidable in brachioplasty. The length and position of scars depend on the surgical technique chosen and the amount of skin removed.

• Minimal incision brachioplasty: Small scar hidden in the armpit
• Full brachioplasty: Long scar from the armpit to the elbow
• Extended brachioplasty: Scar extends from the arm onto the chest wall

Scars usually fade over time but remain permanent. They may be visible in clothing such as short sleeves or singlets. Healing outcomes vary between patients, and some people may be more prone to thick or raised scars such as hypertrophic or keloid scars. Wound healing issues or infection may also affect scar appearance.

It is important for patients to understand that scars are a necessary trade-off for the skin removal that occurs during surgery.

Which Type of Brachioplasty is Right for You?

Determining the best type of brachioplasty requires an in-person assessment by a qualified surgeon. Since July 2023, Australian law requires patients to obtain a GP referral before consulting with a cosmetic surgeon, plastic surgeon, or body contouring specialist.

During your consultation, the surgeon will:

• Examine your arm tissue, skin elasticity, and overall health
• Explain the scar locations and recovery requirements
• Provide a treatment plan tailored to your needs

A brachioplasty may be considered for patients in good health, who do not smoke, and who understand the balance between scar length and tissue removal.

Key Takeaway

There are several types of brachioplasty surgery, ranging from smaller-incision approaches for mild cases to extended operations for major weight loss patients. Each method has its own balance of scar length and tissue removal. The decision is best made with guidance from a qualified surgeon, following a GP referral.