The arms are the most “treacherous” part of the body, the first to reveal age, especially when it comes to the upper arms. With age, when the body produces fewer hormones responsible for skin elasticity, the upper arms lose their attractiveness and appear saggy.
This problem is also known as “bat wings.” Brachioplasty or arm lift is aimed at eliminating this defect, i.e., lifting the skin of the upper arms and correcting the contour of the shoulders.
Recommended brachioplasty:
- as a result of weight loss after a strict diet or exercise
- after a sudden cessation of physical activity leading to a decrease in muscle mass (this applies to professional athletes)
- after serious debilitating illnesses
- due to age-related changes and loss of skin elasticity
- due to excessive shoulder volume, which causes the skin of the arms to sag.
All of these reasons can be direct indications for plastic surgery. Brachioplasty is also used by people who have already tried physical exercises to tighten the skin and special massages, but the upper part of the arms has remained sagging. This is because sagging skin on the arms is often observed after significant weight loss. Most often, this operation is combined with mastopexy (breast lift) or abdominoplasty.
Types of brachioplasty
Depending on the cause and degree of skin stretching, a specific type of procedure may be prescribed. Of course, the plastic surgeon must determine the degree of skin sagging and then prescribe the operation. There are the following types of arm lifts:
1) Brachial plasty with a T-shaped incision in this case will be performed closer to the armpit, with the installation of drains to remove fluid and blood. A T-shaped incision is necessary when there is significant sagging of the skin of the arms. The scar after this procedure will remain, but will be practically invisible.
2) There is another type of brachioplasty – transaxillary, in which the incision is made in the armpit area, and the sagging skin is fixed at shoulder level. This method is the most gentle, as all scars remain in the armpit area. However, this type of brachioplasty can only be performed if the skin sagging is minor.
If you are interested in brachioplasty in Kyiv, you can have this operation performed at our plastic surgery clinic by experienced surgeon Dmitry Slosser.
Honored Doctor of Ukraine, Head of the Plastic Surgery Center
FAQ
In short, pain is manageable. Severe pain after surgery today is the exception rather than the norm. Modern anesthesia, pain management, and recovery protocols make the first days much easier than most patients expect. Most often, discomfort is felt as pressure or tightness. However, it is important to understand that complete absence of sensation is an unrealistic expectation. My position is clear: if a person is afraid of any discomfort, it is better to postpone surgery. The decision must be conscious and well considered.
No. Rehabilitation is part of the surgery, not a separate stage afterward. It is during the recovery period that the final result is formed, tissues stabilize, and the risk of complications decreases. Without proper rehabilitation, even a technically perfect operation may produce a weak outcome. There are procedures with an easier recovery (for example, “weekend lifts”), but surgery without rehabilitation does not exist.
The final result does not appear immediately. It develops gradually over time. Swelling, tissue firmness, and sensations change step by step. During the first weeks, the result is definitely not final, and this is completely normal. The timeline depends on the treated area, the extent of surgery, and individual characteristics of the body. Plastic surgery does not tolerate haste. A good result takes time.
It depends primarily on the type of work you do, not only on the surgery itself. After some procedures, it is possible to return to work within a few days (for example, after “weekend lifts”), while others require weeks of recovery. It is important to consider not only how you feel, but also the safety of the healing process. Returning to activity earlier than recommended increases the risk of complications. It is better to return later than to deal with the consequences of rushing.
Yes, scars always remain. This is part of the natural healing process. However, their appearance changes over time: they become lighter, softer, and less noticeable. Their location and proper care play a crucial role. Careful planning and patience are essential.
When the risks outweigh the benefits, or when the decision is driven by emotions. I refuse if I see that the body is not ready, expectations are unrealistic, or the person does not understand the recovery process. Refusal is also part of treatment. Safety is more important than any desire.
Yes, and it has a significant impact on the outcome. Honest answers, a list of questions, and a willingness to listen save time and help you make the right decision. A consultation is a diagnosis, not a sales pitch. A good consultation is half the success.
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