Arm Reduction (Brachioplasty, Arm lift) Sunshine Coast

Arm reduction surgery, also referred to as an arm lift or brachioplasty, reshapes the contour of the upper arms by removing excess skin and fat from the upper arms, between the shoulder and elbow. The arms can be a common area of concern for patients, and loose or excess skin in this area can sometimes be referred unfairly to as ‘tuckshop’ arms.  While loose skin is a normal part of ageing, this skin can sometimes rub against the upper thorax and cuase frequent rashes and discomfort.  Surgeons can remove loose and excess tissue through both excision and liposuction methods. Dr Fraser-Kirk is an experienced surgeon on the Sunshine Coast, committed to giving patients an improved sense of confidence. Book a consultation for a surgical treatment plan that helps you achieve your goals.

Surgery benefits

There are several factors that may cause sagging skin or excess fat in the upper arm area. Weight loss or gain can cause the skin and underlying tissue to begin relaxing, creating excess skin that can hang from the arms. Fat deposits may also still be present in the arms, which contributes to a loose appearance. Natural aging is also a common cause as well as genetics, and sometimes a combination of all these factors can be the cause.

Although exercise can help tone and strengthen the arms, it cannot tighten excess skin that has lost its elastic quality. Brachioplasty can be a great solution for people with a moderate or large amount of excess tissue around the upper arms that remain despite a healthy diet and exercise. It is sometimes referred to as “bat wings surgery.” An arm lift can help patients achieve more day-to-day comfort and allows greater freedom in choosing clothing.

Brachioplasty can offer the following benefits:

• Removal of excess sagging skin, meaning the skin will no longer hang down when your arms are extended
• Tightening and smoothing of underarm tissue to define arm shape
• Possible reduction of any stretch marks present
• A more balanced appearance and improved clothing options

Arm reduction consultations with Dr Fraser-Kirk

In order to give you the best results possible, Dr Fraser-Kirk will need to discuss your excess skin and desired brachioplasty results. The purpose of arm reduction consultation is to establish your needs and suitability for treatment, and then develop a plan that helps you achieve your aesthetic goals. Dr Fraser-Kirk will ask you about any previous procedures you have had as well as any current health issues or medications. Candidates for the procedure generally are a healthy weight, non-smokers, and do not present medical risks.

Once we have assessed your health and suitability, we can begin to outline a surgical arm lift treatment plan. The plan will be based on the amount of skin laxity present and your own personal desires and preferences for the procedure. Dr Fraser-Kirk will talk you through the process and ensure you feel comfortable before proceeding with the surgery. As a result, you can achieve a pleasing surgery, recovery, and final outcome.

The procedure

Brachioplasty occurs under general anaesthetic and is normally an overnight procedure. To determine the amount of excess skin that needs to be removed, Dr Fraser-Kirk will make marks on the skin when the arm is extended. We may also use liposuction in the area to remove any excess fat and to help with the excision of the sagging skin.

During arm lift surgery, Dr Fraser-Kirk will make an incision from the elbow to the armpit in order to remove the excess tissue. He will then remove the sagging skin, and tighten the underlying supportive tissue, shaping a more ideal arm shape. The skin is then joined back together, smoothing over the arm’s new contours, and sutures will be used to close the incision. The incision can lead to a scar running from the elbow to the armpit. Plastic surgeon Dr Fraser-Kirk will try to be mindful of the incision placement to ensure the scar is as well concealed as possible. In some cases, the incision may need to be exgended down the side of the chest in order to adress furhter skin excess.  This is common in massive weight loss patients and is know as an Extended Brachioplasty.

Arm lift recovery

You can expect to have some swelling after brachioplasty surgery. Additionally, you may have some dizziness, discomfort, pain, and bruising, which are normal. You may be required to stay one to two nights in the hospital following surgery, since it is important to get used to reduced arm movement and give your body time to rest. Dr Fraser-Kirk will give specific guidelines on how to care for your incision sites and help your arms heal quickly.

General recovery instructions:

• Take time off work – about one to two weeks, depending on your healing
• If your job requires physical movement, you may need up to six weeks off
• Make sure all necessary items are at waist height to avoid bending down
• Avoid driving for 10-14 days to limit arm movements
• Avoid any strenuous activity, especially activities like heavy lifting, swimming, or household chores for about six weeks
• Take prescribed medications given by Dr Fraser-Kirk
• Wear the support garments, as advised
• Attend all post-op appointments to monitor recovery
• Contact us if you have any concerning symptoms

It is vital for you to follow brachioplasty recovery advice given to you by Dr Fraser-Kirk. This will help support your healing, reduce any scarring and mitigate risks. We believe that patients should have access to their surgeons, so Dr Fraser-Kirk will aim to be available for any enquiries or issues that you may have after arm lift surgery.

Brachioplasty cost on the Sunshine Coast

The cost of brachioplasty at our clinic will vary from patient to patient. During a thorough consultation, Dr Fraser-Kirk will be able to assess your personal needs, health, and goals in order to create a tailored surgical plan. As a result, we will be able to outline the costs of your arm lift in more detail. Factors such as your health and the amount of skin to be removed can influence the final costs.

Arm lift costs are also influenced by factors such as surgeon costs, hospital fees, anaesthetic, as well as post-op care. Once you have had your consultation, we will provide an estimate of the costs. If you have any questions about costs, please feel free to contact us.

Risks and complications

With any surgery, whether it be medical or cosmetic, an element of risk is involved. It is important to be aware of these risks, since you can then approach your surgery with confidence that you are fully informed. These are the following risks and complications that can occur with brachioplasty:

• Anaesthesia risks
• Allergic reactions to any dressing, gauze, or antibiotics
• Blood clotting
• Infection
• Fat necrosis
• Asymmetry
• Visible or large scarring
• Numbness or changes to skin sensations
• Fluid build-up
• Restricted movement due to skin tightness

You can avoid risks by discussing your health requirements with Dr Fraser-Kirk. This will occur during your in-depth consult, which will allow him to understand your health, medical history, and goals of the surgery.

How to choose the best arm lift specialist on the Sunshine Coast

Brachioplasty has helped many people improve the shape and contour of their arms. However, the procedure is very personal and requires careful planning to achieve the best results. If you are interested in arm lift surgery, it is important to find a quality surgeon who will listen to your goals and develop a plan that best fits your needs.

Dr Fraser-Kirk is a highly skilled and qualified surgeon on the Sunshine Coast who adjusts each surgical plan to the patient. By understanding your needs and desired outcomes, Dr Fraser-Kirk and his team can help you achieve a smoother, more ideal arm contour. Inquire today or book a consultation to find out more about this procedure.

Brachioplasty FAQs