How is This Surgery Performed?

Your doctor may offer you the choice between using a local or general anesthetic; however, most patients are most comfortable with a general anesthetic for this procedure.

The doctor begins by marking the area of excess skin, with the patient either standing or sitting. The anesthesia is administered. Incisions are made on the inner and under surface of the arm, most often in a zigzagged line. The pattern of skin removal usually follows an elliptical or triangular shape. Often some fat is suctioned at the same time. The surgical opening may run from the armpit to as low as the elbow.

While the excess skin and fat is removed, the remaining skin is stretched and sutured into place. Occasionally a drain is used to lead excess fluids from the site of incision, allowing the skin better to adhere to the tissue beneath. The incisions are then bandaged.

How Much Pain is There?

You may experience moderate pain after this procedure. Pain medication, prescribed by your surgeon, can help make you comfortable. After a few days acetaminophen and/or ibuprofen may be all that you require. But avoid aspirin; it can increase the risk of bleeding and bruising.

Incisions and Scars in Arm Lift

The greatest drawback of this operation is the scars. The scars extend from the armpit to the elbow, along the inside of the arm. This operation exchanges one cosmetic problem (loose skin) for another (scars). In general, those with very loose saggy skin are most likely to find this exchange worthwhile. Those with a small amount of looseness will probably not want the scars

Anesthesia:	General or sedation.
Location of operation:	Office or hospital.
Length of surgery:	1-2 hours
Length of stay:	Outpatient (home same day).
Discomfort:	Mild to moderate. Anticipate 2-5 days of prescription pain medication.
Swelling:	Improves over 14 days.
Bruising:	Is rare
Bandages:	Will be removed in 1-7 days.
Stitches:	Will be absorbable.
Back to work:	3-7 days.
Exercise:	May be resumed in 2 weeks.
Final result:	Will be seen after the scars have matured, which will be about six months.