Arm lifting is the procedure of removing regional fat deposits from the arms. It can be applied to both women and men. It is an ideal operation to get rid of resistant fat deposits after having reached a constant weight with a healthy life, sports and diet, it can be done at any time. Medical information of the patient and general body examination is done before the surgery. Areas of the fat removal is determined. Skin elasticity is checked, incision locations are determined and the photographing is done.
Conventional, ultrasonographic and laser assisted fat removal methods can be applied. The most classic is the conventional fat removal method with the help of metal rods called cannulas. In other methods, laser or ultrasound energy is given through the incisions. The fat cells are broken down and the fats are easily aspirated. These methods are easier, less invasive, effective and provide quick recovery. They also make it easier to adjust the skin. Therefore, our surgeons prefer ultrasound and laser assisted fat removal method for the comfort of our patients and the success of the procedure.
Why does arm sag?
Actually, the answer to the question why arm lift surgeries are made is very clear. Fat. Extreme weight gain/loss in short terms or going down to 80 kg from 120 kg after a diet can cause such fat deposits. In such a case, fat depositions can occur not only in the arms, but also in many parts of the body. The arms are first diluted with liposuction and then finalized with the excess skin removal process.
The Procedure
Arm lift operations can be performed by two different techniques as fat removal and excess skin removal. Regarding the current situation of the patient, two methods can be performed at the same time. Operation is done from the elbow to the armpit. The sagging in the area is retouched. If the sagging is not too excessive, then the operation can be performed by lifting the arm inwards from a tiny incision. So the scar will also be barely seen.
Arm lift surgery is performed under general anesthesia. The operation takes approximately 1 to 3 hours. It is necessary to wear arm corset for about 3 weeks after surgery. The bruises and edema in the arm will begin to slowly disappear about this time. The operation scars will take 2 months to be gone completely. The patient is hospitalized for one night after the surgery unless the surgeon states another condition. After the operation, control visits at certain intervals is generally necessary. There may be some pain and it is extremely natural. As long as the use of medication given by the surgeon is taken on time, it will be a smooth recovery.
Pre-Operation
As in all surgeries requiring general anesthesia, no foods or drinks are allowed for 6 hours pre-operation. The patient should stop taking medication that prolongs the bleeding, such as aspirin, at least 3 days before the operation.
Post-Operation
After the surgery, rubber drains are often placed in operated area to prevent bleeding and fluid accumulation. They are removed 2 to 3 days later at the latest. In the first few days after the surgery, it is recommended to keep the arms high. Arms are bandaged to reduce swelling, edema and bleeding that may occur in the operated area. 3 days after the operation, an elastic bandage like a sock wrapped around the arm to give the shape. Generally, there is no stitches to remove after operation.
Besides the conditions that may affect the healing process such as bleeding, serum accumulation and infection, other conditions special to arm lift operation such as banding under the arms may be seen due to the ill-planning of incisions.
There is almost no pain felt during post-operative period. In case of feeling pain, painkillers will suffice. The patients can return to their normal lives within a few days. The patient will only be able to do the daily works during first two weeks; the sports that do not require arm strength, such as running, can start in the third week, sports that require arm effort such as tennis can start in after eighth week. The operation scar in the arm will be puffy red in the early days, but it will become less distinct and gradually fade.
Recovery Period
You may be able to fly 2 to 3 days after arm lift surgery. You can shower after 2 to 3 days unless indicated otherwise. Recovery period varies from person to person. You can fully recover in about 5 to 7 days; it is about the same time you can return to your work life or social life. Since self-absorbing concealed sutures are used in the surgery, there is no need for stitch removal. Work requiring power and sports can start after 4 weeks.