An arm lift, also known as brachioplasty, is a surgical procedure to remove loose skin and excess
fat deposits in the upper arm. With age, upper arm skin can become loose and flabby. Dr.
Baroody will discuss arm lift surgery with those who want to tighten this skin and look as good as
they feel. In some cases Dr. Baroody may suggest that liposuction be used alone or in
conjunction with an arm lift to remove excess fat in the upper arms.


ARE YOU A CANDIDATE FOR AN ARM LIFT?

Brachioplasty is most beneficial for men or women who are bothered by a large fat deposit or
loose arm skin that do not respond to diet or exercise. Loss of skin elasticity, which frequently
occurs with slight obesity, can also be improved.

Diet and exercise should be implemented weeks before surgery and a steady weight established.
 Not only will weight loss improve your overall result after surgery but will also decrease your risk
of experiencing a complication.


ALL SURGERY CARRIES SOME UNCERTAINTY AND RISK

Brachioplasty is becoming more commonly performed and may result in dramatic improvements;
however, every surgery inherently carries potential risks and complications.

Post-operative complications such as infection and blood clots are rare, but may occur. Infection
can be treated with drainage and antibiotics.

Poor healing, which results in conspicuous scars, may necessitate a second operation.  Because
of the dramatic increase in the risk of complications, smokers must stop at least four weeks prior
to surgery.

You can reduce your risk of complications by closely following Dr. Baroody's instructions before
and after surgery, especially with regard to when and how you should resume physical activity.


PLANNING YOUR SURGERY

During your initial consultation, Dr. Baroody will evaluate your general health and evaluate the
extent of subcutaneous fat and the tone of your skin.  Be sure to inform Dr. Baroody of your past
medical/surgical history, all medications you are taking, allergies to medications, and history of
tobacco use.

According to your anatomy, the most appropriate body contouring procedure(s) will be
recommended.  Whether you would most benefit from liposuction alone or brachioplasty
with/without liposuction, Dr. Baroody will consider the potential results and the risks to offer the
procedure best for you.


PREPARING FOR YOUR SURGERY

You will be given specific instructions on how to prepare for surgery, including guidelines on
eating and drinking, smoking, and taking or avoiding certain vitamins, and medications.

If you smoke, you must quit at least four weeks before your surgery and not to resume for at
least four weeks after your surgery. You must also avoid second-hand smoke.  If you smoke or
develop a cold/infection of any kind, your surgery will be postponed.

Whether your surgery is performed on an outpatient or inpatient basis, you should arrange for
someone to drive you home after your surgery, and to help you out for a day or two after you
leave the facility.


LOCATION OF THE SURGERY

Dr. Baroody performs the procedure in both hospital and outpatient settings.  Arm lift surgery
may be performed in New Milford Hospital, Naugatuck Valley Surgery Center, or the Ridgefield
Surgery Center in Ridgefield, CT.


TYPE OF ANESTHESIA

Dr. Baroody performs the procedure under general anesthesia and will numb the arms prior to
awaking.


THE SURGERY

A standard arm lift usually takes 2-3 hours, depending on the extent of work required.

Although smaller incisions may be used, most commonly, the incision will be from the arm pit to
the elbow.  Next, Dr. Baroody removes the excess skin and fat of the arms.  The incisions will be
closed with absorbable sutures and dressings will be applied.


AFTER YOUR SURGERY

For the first few days, your arms will be swollen and you are 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 hospitalized.

You may only sponge bathe during the first 2 days.


GETTING BACK TO NORMAL

It may take you weeks or months to feel like your old self again.  Some return to work after two
weeks, while others take three or four weeks to rest and recuperate.

Exercise will help you heal better. Even people who have never exercised before should begin an
exercise program to reduce swelling, lower the chance of blood clots, and tone muscles.
Vigorous exercise, however, should be avoided until you can do it comfortably.

Your scars may actually appear to worsen during the first three to six months as they heal, but
this is normal. Expect it to take nine months to a year before your scars flatten out and lighten in
color.  They will never disappear completely.


YOUR NEW LOOK

Arm lift surgery produces excellent results for patients with excess skin and fat of the upper arms.
And in most cases, the results are long lasting, if you follow a balanced diet and exercise
regularly.

If you are realistic in your expectations and prepared for the consequences of a permanent scar
and a relatively lengthy recovery period, arm lift surgery may be just the answer for you.
ARM LIFT
CONSENT, INSTRUCTIONS
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Before & After Photos
10 South Street . Suite 204 . Ridgefield, CT
46 Federal Road . Danbury, CT
203.790.5700
Plastic surgeon Michael Baroody, MD offers a variety of plastic surgery
procedures. Dr. Baroody's practice is located in Danbury, and Ridgfefield, CT and
serves both Fairfield and Litchfield Counties. The doctor specializes in
forehead
lift, eyelid surgery, rhinoplasty, facelift, neck liposculpture, liposuction, breast
augmentation, breast lift, tummy tuck, and others as well as a variety of
reconstructive procedures. Examine the website and learn more about Dr. Baroody
and the various services provided.
Financing options available.

10 South Street . #204 . Ridgefield, CT 06877
46 Federal Road . Danbury, CT 06810 . Phone: (203) 790-5700