The best candidates for an arm reduction are men or women who are in
relatively good shape but are bothered by moderate to large fat deposits or
loose skin of the upper arms that won't respond to diet or exercise. Loss of
skin elasticity in older patients, which frequently occurs with slight obesity,
can also be improved. Patients who intend to lose a lot of weight should
postpone the surgery. An arm reduction can enhance your appearance and your
self-confidence, but it won't necessarily change your looks to match your ideal,
or cause other people to treat you differently. Before you decide to have
surgery, think carefully about your expectations and discuss them with Doctor
Braun.
Thousands of arm reductions are performed successfully each year. When done
by a qualified plastic surgeon that is trained in body contouring, the results
are generally quite positive.
You can reduce your risk of complications by closely following your surgeon's
instructions before and after the surgery, especially with regard to when and
how you should resume physical activity.
Complete arm reduction usually takes about one to two hours, depending on the
extent of work required. Most commonly, Doctor Braun will make a long incision
from your elbow to your armpit. Next, the loose skin and fat is separated from
the lower portion of the arm all the way up to your armpit. The skin flap is
then stretched down and the extra skin is removed. Finally, the incisions will
be stitched, dressings will be applied, and a temporary tube may be inserted to
drain excess fluid from the surgical site.
For the first few days post surgery, your arms will probably be swollen and
you're likely to feel some pain and discomfort, which can be controlled by
medication. Depending on the extent of the surgery, you may be released within a
few hours or you may have to remain hospitalised for one day.
Your scars may actually appear to worsen during the first three to six months
as they heal, but this is normal. Taping of the scars to improve them is
mandatory for three months after surgery. Expect it to take nine months to a
year before your scars flatten out and lighten in colour. There is a risk of
hypertrophic (thick) scarring after this operation.
Arm reduction produces excellent results for patients with loose and flabby
skin of the upper arms. And in most cases, the results are long lasting, if you
follow a balanced diet and exercise regularly. If you're realistic in your
expectations and prepared for the consequences of a permanent scar and a lengthy
recovery period, an arm reduction may be just the answer for you.
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