Arm Lift, also known as Brachioplasty, is one of the fastest growing procedures in the US. A brachioplasty minimizes excess fat and skin in the arm and armpit areas. An arm lift creates a more athletic, toned, and youthful appearance to your upper arm extremity by removing the excess skin and fat that obscures the detail of the underlying muscles.
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There are a number of different types of incisions that may be utilized to achieve an arm lift. The type of incision that Dr. Durkin will use depends on the clinical presentation and fat that is present in your arms prior to surgery.
Currently there are no effective nonsurgical approaches to armlifting. However, an effective training regiment consisting of cardiovascular, weights, and resistance training can prevent the need for an arm lift. Patients, however, who have already developed excess skin and fat can not reverse the effect with exercise alone. There are a number of different approaches to brachioplasty. The most common approach places an incision along the the medial (inner) most portion of the arm close to the biceps muscle. This incision however, we have found can be noticeable. Therefore, Vero Beach arm lift provider Dr. Durkin has adapted our technique to the inferior aspect of the arm.
By placing the incision inferiorly, it optimizes his ability to hide the scar without comprising the amount of skin and fat to be removed. As well, this incision can be extended into the armpit region to tighten up that problematic area as well. When the incision is carried into the armpit it is termed extended brachioplasty. An extended brachioplasty will tone the arms and shoulder. It can also be extended down to include the lateral contour of the chest.
Another type of arm lift approach is through a transverse incision to the armpit itself. This mimimally invasive approach is an outstanding option for men and women who have good fascia tone, muscle mass, with minimal to moderate skin redundancy. At Ocean Drive Plastic Surgery, Dr. Durkin’s arm lift technique provides you with a comprehensive approach to upper arm rejuvenation.
All of your consultations, pre-operative appointments, surgery, and post-operative appointments are performed at our Vero Beach office. At the time of your procedure Dr. Durkin, marks you in the standing position. You will discuss and come to a mutual agreement on the length, and position of your incision. Subsequently at our surgery center, you are taken to the operating room where our anesthesiologist will cater to your comfort and safety. The actual procedure takes approximately 2 hours but, you will also have time ample time for post-operative recovery. Your arm lift begins with infusion of tumescent solution followed by comprehensive liposuction of the upper extremity. Dr. Durkin removes all available excess skin and fat as agreed to prior to your surgery. He then closes your wound in 3 layers. Surgical drains are used sparingly (rarely used).
Postoperatively, you can expect minimal to some discomfort in your arms and experience a quick recovery. Most patients return to normal activities within 5-7 days. After your surgery, you may receive additional skincare, fractional laser resurfacing, and/or silicone sheeting. All of these post-surgical modulators are available at Ocean Drive Plastic Surgery and will be discussed at your consultation.
Every operation, no matter how minor, is accompanied by swelling of the surrounding tissues. The amount varies from minimal to extensive. Sometimes the swelling becomes a little greater 48 hours after your operation and will gradually decrease. Wearing the ace wraps will help control this swelling.
You will be discharged with ace wraps around both arms for compression. Please wear these wraps at all times. Only remove them to shower when told to do so. You will wear the wraps for 1-2 weeks, or as prescribed by Dr. Durkin.
You may be discharged with drains. It is important to remember to keep them secure as you do not want to have these accidentally pulled out. You will need to empty the collection reservoirs at least twice a day or when they become full. You will be given instructions and shown how to empty the drains by the nurse prior to discharge. You will receive a log to write down the amount of output for each drain. Please bring this log with you to your appointments.
An antibiotic has been given to you. Please start the antibiotic the day after surgery and continued until gone. Under no circumstances should ASPIRIN, IBUPROFEN, or medications containing aspirin or salicylates or ibuprofen, be taken without first consulting us.
Medication Instructions
Every Vero Beach brachioplasty patient will receive the following four meds which may be adjusted due to medication allergies etc.
You will receive a prescribed pain medication and it can often cause sensations of light-headedness or sleepiness, particularly in the immediate post- operative period. Under no circumstances should ASPIRIN, IBUPROFEN, or medications containing aspirin or salicylates or ibuprofen, be taken without first consulting us. If the pain is severe and the prescribed pain medication is not helping, please do not increase the recommended dosage or supplement with your own medications. Notify our office and we will evaluate the next step in controlling your pain. You may want to purchase a stool softener such as Colace or Ducolox and use it on a daily basis. Pain medication can cause constipation and you want to avoid any straining.
A normal diet is permissible providing there is no nausea. The night of your surgery you may feel nauseated. We have provided you with anti-nausea medication. You can take the medication and only take a few ounces of clear fluids until the nausea passes. Please no drinking of alcohol for the first 3 weeks and/or while taking the pain medication and the anti-anxiety medication. Alcohol may raise the blood pressure and initiate bleeding and swelling.
When you should return to work depends on the amount of physical activity and public contact your job involves. The average patient may return to work or go out socially 2-3 weeks after surgery. Do not drive until you are given permission from Dr. Durkin.
Remember these things:
If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact the office at (772) 234-3700. If you have an emergency after regular office hours, please call 911 or go to your local emergency room.
If you're unhappy with certain areas of your body but aren't ready for surgery, Ocean Drive MedSpa has the perfect non-surgical solution for you. Our expert team offers a variety of non-surgical body procedures that can help you achieve the body you've always wanted without the need for invasive surgery. From reducing stubborn fat to tightening and toning loose skin, we have the perfect treatment to help you achieve your desired results. Plus, with our non-surgical approach, you can enjoy quick and easy recovery with no down time. Explore our website to learn more about our non-surgical body procedures and schedule a consultation today to take the first step towards your dream body.
Visit Ocean Drive MedSpa
At Ocean Drive Plastic Surgery in Vero Beach, Dr. Alan Durkin and their team of providers deliver incredible results tailored to your needs in a relaxing and uplifting atmosphere. Learn more about the Ocean Drive difference by scheduling your one-on-one diagnostic consultation with Dr. Durkin or Dr. Chim today.
5070 Florida A1A Ste A,
Vero Beach FL 32963
50 NE 26th Ave.
Pompano Beach FL 33062
Mon-Fri: 9am – 5pm
