Brachioplasty Sydney

The Brachioplasty procedure, also often referred to as an arm lift, can improve the appearance of drooping or sagging upper arms. This can be accomplished with the removal and firming up of excess skin.

Brachioplasty Sydney

The Brachioplasty procedure, also often referred to as an arm lift, can improve the appearance of drooping or sagging upper arms. This can be accomplished with the removal and firming up of excess skin.

A number of concerns can lead to the arms losing shape and taking on a drooping or sagging appearance. The surgery can give the upper arms a more toned and defined look that would otherwise not be achievable with targeted exercise alone.

What concerns can brachioplasty help to address?

It’s important to remember that every individual is unique and so too are their needs and desired outcomes for cosmetic surgery. If you’re considering a procedure, it’s essential to have a comprehensive consultation with one of our experienced surgeons. They can help you understand whether you’re a suitable candidate and what you can realistically expect from the surgery. The information provided here is meant to help guide you, but it’s not a replacement for professional medical advice. Always organise a consultation for personalised advice.

If you are concerned about the way you look or are thinking about cosmetic surgery for confidence reasons, there are alternatives. Talking to a counsellor or psychologist may help you overcome your concerns about your appearance.

Excess Loose Skin: Brachioplasty, also known as an arm lift, may help to address the issue of excess, loose skin in the upper arms.
Post-Weight Loss Concerns: After significant weight loss, the skin may not shrink back entirely, leading to sagging skin on the arms. Brachioplasty can help improve the appearance of the arms in such cases.
Aging-Related Skin Elasticity Loss: Aging often leads to a decrease in skin elasticity, which can result in sagging upper arms. This procedure can help mitigate these effects.
Fat Deposits in the Upper Arms: Brachioplasty can assist in reducing localized pockets of fat in the upper arm region when liposuction alone isn't enough.
Improving Arm Contour: The procedure can help enhance the shape and tone of your upper arms, making them appear more proportional to the rest of your body.
Enhancing Comfort: By reducing excess skin and fat, the procedure might improve comfort in daily activities and expand wardrobe choices.
Limited Results from Exercise: Exercise can strengthen and improve muscle tone in the upper arms, but it cannot address excess skin that has lost elasticity. Brachioplasty can complement your fitness efforts in such cases.
It's important to note that while brachioplasty can help improve the physical appearance of the arms, it is not a solution for weight loss or a substitute for a healthy lifestyle. Each person's results will vary, and a detailed consultation with a certified professional is essential to understand all aspects and potential outcomes of this procedure.

What to expect

Consultation

The first step in the brachioplasty process is a comprehensive consultation with our experienced surgeon. During this appointment, your aesthetic goals, medical history, and current arm structure will be evaluated. The surgeon will assess your arm’s skin elasticity, fat distribution, and overall shape. This consultation is a valuable opportunity for you to voice any concerns or ask any questions you may have about the procedure.

Number and type of consultation

It is a requirement under the law, that a patient seeking cosmetic surgery must have at least two pre-operative consultations. The patient’s first consultation must be with the medical practitioner who will perform the surgery or another registered health practitioner who works with the medical practitioner who will perform the surgery (not a patient advisor or an agent). At least one of the two consultations must be in person with the medical practitioner who will perform the surgery. Other consultations can be in person or by video.

When consent can be given

A patient must not be requested to sign consent forms at their first consultation and cannot consent to cosmetic surgery until they have had an in-person consultation with the medical practitioner who will perform the surgery. The decision to have the surgery (provision of informed consent) must be made at a consultation with the medical practitioner who will perform the procedure (in person or by video).

Cooling-off Period

There must be a cooling-off period of at least seven days after the patient has had two consultations and given informed consent (signed consent forms), before the surgery can be booked or a deposit paid. 

Preparation

Once the surgical plan has been mutually agreed upon, you will receive specific instructions on how to prepare for your brachioplasty. These may include dietary guidelines, advice on smoking and alcohol consumption, specific instructions about medications or supplements, and skincare recommendations.

Surgery

Brachioplasty, also known as arm lift surgery, typically takes two to three hours and is usually performed under general anesthesia. The procedure involves making incisions on the underside of the arm. The surgeon then removes excess skin and fat, and tightens and smooths the underlying supportive tissue. The incisions are then closed with sutures.

Recovery

After the surgery, you’ll be monitored in a recovery room for a short period. Most patients can go home the same day, though an overnight hospital stay may occasionally be recommended. Swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort are normal but will begin to subside after a few days.

Most patients feel ready to return to non-strenuous daily activities within a week, while more vigorous activities should be avoided for about two to four weeks. Regular follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor your progress and ensure a smooth recovery.

The final results of your brachioplasty will be noticeable within a few weeks once the swelling has completely subsided, but the full effect may not be apparent for several months as the arms continue to heal and settle into their new contour.

Surgery Time
1.5 to 3 hours
Hospital Time
Overnight
Time off work
1 to 2 weeks
Cast Removal
Garment for 6 weeks
Showering
Sponge bath from next day, incisions and arms dry
Exercise
6 weeks
Driving
6 weeks and not while taking prescribed pain relief. We also recommend checking with your CTA insurer as to the post surgery exclusion period.
Travel
After 2 weeks for national and 4 weeks for international
Full Recovery
12 months for final results

Considerations Before Cosmetic Surgery

While we aim to provide accurate information about the different surgical procedures available, it’s important to understand that the content provided here serves as a general guide only. The specifics of each surgery, including the procedure detailed above, can and will vary significantly from person to person, depending on their unique circumstances and physical characteristics.

Undergoing cosmetic surgery is a serious decision that requires ample thought, careful consideration, and meticulous planning. It should never be taken lightly or treated trivially, as it can have profound impacts on one’s lifestyle and wellbeing.

Recovery from cosmetic surgery, too, requires time, support, and proper aftercare. We strive to present realistic and transparent information about the recovery process, but individual experiences may vary. It is typical for recovery to involve certain services or requirements, such as the use of compression garments or receiving therapeutic massages. It also often necessitates significant lifestyle changes, which may include a period of absence from employment and temporary restrictions on certain activities.

In light of these considerations, we strongly encourage potential patients to engage in comprehensive discussions with their GP and our surgeons. The goal is to fully understand the implications, requirements, and likely outcomes of any chosen procedure, and to make informed decisions about their health and aesthetics.

For more information on preparing for cosmetic surgery visit health.gov.au/cosmeticsurgery

General risks and complications of surgery include:

Substantial Hemorrhage: This involves severe blood loss from the area that underwent surgery, which may necessitate additional medical interventions.
Susceptibility to Infection: Post-surgery, the risk of infection can rise, potentially requiring either antibiotic treatment or subsequent surgical interventions.
Allergic Responses: Patients may exhibit allergic reactions to medical materials such as sutures, dressings, or antiseptic solutions used during and after the procedure.
Hematoma Formation: This involves the development of a sizable clot of blood beneath the incision site, which may necessitate medical drainage.
Post-Surgical Discomfort: Patients may experience pain, bruising, and swelling in the area surrounding the surgical site.
Scar Development: There's a risk of developing keloids or hypertrophic scars, which are elevated, red, and thickened scars over the healed incisions. Though they can be bothersome and aesthetically displeasing, they don't pose a direct health threat.
Delayed Healing Process: Healing can be sluggish, especially in patients with pre-existing conditions like diabetes or those who smoke.
Anaesthesia Risks: Patients may experience short-term nausea following general anaesthesia, along with other potential risks associated with anaesthesia.

Brachioplasty risks and complications include:

Asymmetry in Arm Shape: Despite precise surgical techniques, the arms may not be symmetrical in size or shape following the surgery.
Unsatisfactory Cosmetic Outcome: The patient might be dissatisfied with the shape, contour, or tightness of the arm following brachioplasty.
Changes in Arm Sensation: Brachioplasty can lead to temporary or permanent changes in skin sensation in the arm, including numbness or increased sensitivity.
Seroma Formation: Following the surgery, there's a risk of developing a seroma, which is a collection of fluid that builds up under the surface of your skin.
Skin Discoloration and Prolonged Swelling: Some degree of skin discoloration and swelling will occur in all patients and may persist for an extended period in some cases.
Visible or Prominent Scars: The incisions for brachioplasty often result in visible scars that may not be well concealed. While these scars may fade over time, they will never disappear completely.
Limited Arm Mobility: Temporary decrease in arm mobility may occur during the healing process, making certain arm movements uncomfortable in the early postoperative period.
Tissue Necrosis: Rarely, tissue necrosis or tissue death can occur due to decreased blood supply. This risk is elevated in smokers or patients with certain medical conditions.

Patient Results

Before
AFTER
Before
AFTER

Disclaimer: Photographs shown above are actual patients from our clinic, who have given their consent for the use of their images purely for informational purposes. It is important to note that the results observed are subjective, and will differ based on each individual’s unique characteristics and the specific surgical or non-surgical techniques implemented. As with all procedures, both surgical and non-surgical, there are inherent risks involved.

Despite our efforts to maintain standardisation in our before and after photos, certain inconsistencies, such as differences in lighting, posture, facial expression, hairstyle, and make-up, may still exist between images. For a more comprehensive understanding of potential results, additional surgical result photographs can be viewed during a private consultation at our clinic located in Double Bay, NSW.

Additionally, we wish to emphasise that individual outcomes can greatly differ. The results experienced by one person should not be viewed as an exact indication of the results that others may experience. Such variations are due to a multitude of factors, including an individual’s genetics, diet, and exercise regimen.

All photos are watermarked and hold the copyright of Dr Zacharia. Any unauthorised usage or distribution is strictly prohibited.

How Much Does Brachioplasty Cost?

Your personalised quote will be prepared following an in-depth evaluation by our expert surgeon. This includes a thorough assessment of your individual needs, detailed explanation of the procedure, and a tailored approach to best achieve the desired outcomes. The quote considers various elements including surgical supplies, hospital requirements, and the specifics of the surgery itself.

Potential rebates might be available if the procedure is deemed medically necessary by relevant health authorities. Conditions for this include providing evidence supporting the medical necessity of the surgery and a referral from a healthcare professional. Your private health insurance may also provide coverage, so it’s essential to discuss this with your provider.

FAQ

Brachioplasty, often referred to as an ‘arm lift’, is a surgical procedure designed to reshape the upper arm, specifically to reduce sagging skin that hangs down when the arm is extended. Individuals who have experienced significant weight loss, or due to aging and genetics have developed excess skin and fat between the underarm and the elbow, often consider this procedure. As always, a comprehensive consultation with a qualified surgeon is essential to determine whether this procedure aligns with an individual’s specific circumstances and goals.
During a brachioplasty, an incision is made on the inside or back of the arm, often spanning from the underarm to the elbow. Excess skin and fat are removed, and the remaining skin is tightened and smoothed over the newly reshaped arm. The specifics of the procedure can vary based on individual needs and the surgeon’s techniques.
Recovery times can vary depending on the individual and the extent of the surgery. It is common to experience some swelling and discomfort in the days following the procedure, which can be managed with prescribed medications. A supportive garment may be recommended to minimize swelling and support healing. Most individuals can return to normal activities within a few weeks, though strenuous activities and lifting should be avoided until your surgeon advises it’s safe.
As with any surgical procedure, brachioplasty does leave a scar. The incision is usually made on the inside or back of the arm, so it is less noticeable. The scar will fade over time and can often be concealed under clothing. Your surgeon will provide guidance on scar care to aid in the healing and fading process.

Self-Assess Your Readiness For a Facelift

Thank you for taking the Dr Zacharia self-assessment form to better understand how mentally and physically you are for achieving the best facelift possible. Please answer all questions below, and provide photos for a pre op screening by Dr Zacharia.

Disclaimer: Please note that Dr Zacharia has the same rights as a patient. If you choose not to go ahead with Dr Zacharia based on his recommendations, he also has the right to turn away patients who he feels may be too high risk for surgery or show a lack of compliance for surgery protocols.

Surgery is a serious decision, and we are striving for the best outcomes for all. However, all surgery comes with a risk of complication or revision. Follow your pre and post op instructions for your safety and best possible outcome. However, the human body is not an exact science and Dr Zacharia and his team can only use their extensive experience to help guide you through any issue that could arise.

Please complete the following information, so we can send you your results and contact you for further discussion later.

Dr ZACHARIA’s opinion will be based on your anatomy. If the budget you have specified does not meet his recommendations, we will highlight the limitations of lesser invasive treatments based on your budget/ anatomy.

Please provide a front on and profile photo of your face. Also, a photo of you on your profile looking down. Ideally stand in front of a plain wall or door and have someone else take the photos for the best pre op consult advise.

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