As we age, skin loses collagen and elasticity, leaving parts of the body looking soft and out-of-shape.

An area significantly affected is the upper arms, where excess fat is also stored, and there is less supporting muscle tone.  Extended sun exposure means that even those who have never struggled with their weight find that wrinkling and sagging becomes a problem in this area.

Performed under a general anaesthetic in a fully accredited hospital, the surgery takes around two hours. An overnight hospital stay may be required depending on your general health and the extent of the procedure.

Making a series of incisions under the arms, Dr Page cuts as small as possible to avoid excessive scarring. After removing enough fat and skin to ensure the right results, excess fat is removed using liposuction. Skin is surgically cut until there is no excess and the desired contours are achieved.  Incisions are stitched in place, and wounds sealed and dressed. A drain may be put in place for a short period to ensure that excess fluid is drained properly.

It is best to designate a window of around two weeks to your brachioplasty recovery and refrain from any heavy lifting or strenuous exercise for approximately 6 – 8 weeks. During the initial two weeks of recovery, compression garments should be worn on the arms – day and night – to support the area as it heals.

Some temporary inflammation, bruising, skin tension, and discomfort are expected but should resolve within several weeks of treatment. Some scarring may be permanent, but minimal, and will fade dramatically with time.

Results are permanent. Whilst your body will naturally age, the best results are maintained through a healthy diet and exercise lifestyle.

Risks and Complications

At Dr Rohan Page’s practice, your safety and well-being are our top priorities. We want to ensure you are well informed about brachioplasty surgery’s risks and potential complications. While we take all necessary precautions to minimise these risks, it’s essential to acknowledge that some risks may be unavoidable.

Please note that the information provided here is of a general nature. During your consultation with Dr Rohan Page, a Specialist Plastic Surgeon, he will discuss your surgical procedure’s specific risks and complications.

However, we have outlined some general risks associated with brachioplasty below:

1. Fat necrosis: Rarely, fatty tissue can die, resulting in the formation of hard lumps under the skin. It is usually not a serious problem.
2. Restricted movement: Tightened skin after brachioplasty may make certain arm movements more challenging.
3. Skin graft: There is a small risk of skin not healing properly, which may require a skin graft.
4. Blood loss: Although rare, significant blood loss during surgery may necessitate a blood transfusion.
5. Nausea: Nausea is a common side effect, often due to anaesthesia, but it typically resolves quickly after surgery.

Please remember that the risks and complications mentioned here are not exhaustive. Dr Rohan Page will provide personalised information based on your unique circumstances and address any concerns during your consultation.