Brachioplasty is a surgical procedure for removing the excess skin and fat from the upper arms. The procedure is performed leaving a scar along the medial side of the upper arm. The excess skin and fat between the armpit and the elbow area are removed surgically. The resultant scar will extend from the armpit down to the elbow area. At times, a shorter scar limited to the upper arm area can be used. Either scar generally falls at the line which defines the biceps muscle.

OPERATION
The operation typically takes 1 1/2 to 3 hours depending on the size and techniques used. It is done under general anesthesia in an ambulatory surgery center. Patients go home after surgery with appropriate pain medication and instructions on care of the drains.

SCARS
All attempts to minimize and hide your scars will be made. In most patients the scars will be red or pigmented for 6 months and gradually fade by 12 months after surgery. All scars are permanent and their height. width, and final color are not totally predictable.

DRAINS
You may have drains exiting from the area of the elbow. Usually these are removed in three to five days. You will be taught how to care for these at home.

Recovery
You will have bandages and dressings placed immediately after surgery. Sometimes, skin tapes are used in place of sutures; these do not require removal. If you do have sutures, these are removed 7-10 days after surgery.Sponge baths may be taken.

Pain medication will be prescribed. For the first week following surgery, the operative areas will be numb, swollen, bruised, and possibly appear distorted. After one week, the swelling associated with surgery begins to subside. Resolution of swelling will continue after the first week, but your final outcome may not be apparent until as long as 3 months after surgery.

TIME TO RETURN TO PUBLIC EYE
Typically 7-14 days after surgery. Sunscreen should be worn to protect healing skin.

ACTUAL RESULTS
Most patients have very good long-term results with this surgery.

RISKS
Although unusual, risks may include blood clots, numbness, infection and bleeding.

Ricardo Izquierdo, M.D. is a board certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in body contouring surgery such as liposuction, tummy tuck, mommy makeovers, and surgery after massive weight loss. Serving Hinsdale, Oak Brook, Burr Ridge, Western Springs, Wheaton, Naperville, Clarendon Hills, Downers Grove, Elmhurst IL, Geneva IL, Glen Ellyn, Lisle, Lombard, St. Charles, Winfield IL, and the surrounding area.

2425 West 22nd Street, Suite 213, Oak Brook, Illinois 60523 630.794.0700

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