Arms in focus: A guide to brachioplasty

In his latest online article, Mr Simon Heppell gives us his insights into brachioplasty. He talks about what it is and the procedure, the ideal candidate, side effects or complications, if sportspeople could benefit from this procedure, recovery period and how successful it can be.

What is brachioplasty? How is it performed?

Brachioplasty is the medical procedure designed to reduce the surplus skin on the arms, commonly known as "Bingo Wings." This condition often involves an excess of skin, resulting in sagging or drooping between the elbow and the armpit, which tends to be loose and wobbly. The procedure's primary goal is to assess and plan appropriately to remove the excess skin, typically performed on the inner part of the arm. As a result, a single linear scar is left, usually extending from around the elbow to approximately the armpit, effectively eliminating the excess skin. It's crucial to avoid making the skin too tight, as this can lead to swelling in the hand or forearm. Therefore, a careful balance is maintained, ensuring that enough tissue is removed while preserving some degree of flexibility, which could be described as supple or bendable skin.

Who is the ideal candidate for brachioplasty?

Brachioplasty is often associated with individuals who have undergone significant weight loss, particularly those who have lost a substantial amount of weight that has left their skin stretched. It's important to note that after weight loss, the skin doesn't naturally regain its elasticity; it remains stretched. Therefore, the ideal candidate for brachioplasty is someone who not only has excess skin but also enjoys good overall health and well-being, increasing the likelihood of a successful post-surgery healing process. Additionally, it's crucial that the candidate's weight is stable.

If someone has excess skin and is in the process of losing weight, it may be advisable to wait until their weight stabilises before considering surgery. This precaution helps avoid the scenario in which excess skin is removed, but the individual continues to lose weight, leading to additional skin laxity. Achieving weight stability is, therefore, an optimal timing for the procedure, provided there are no contraindications to surgery or the healing process.

What are the possible side effects or complications?

Every surgical procedure carries the possibility of encountering challenges and complications. These can include general issues such as the development of blood clots in the legs or arms, infections, wound breakdown, and the potential for more noticeable scarring in surgeries of this nature. It is crucial to thoroughly assess and plan the procedure, as an excessive removal of tissue or overly tight adjustments can elevate the risk of wound breakdown and lead to swelling in the hand and arm.

While quite rare, there are also more uncommon complications related to potential damage to nerves or blood vessels. Your surgeon should engage in a comprehensive discussion with you during the surgery planning phase to address these potential complications and provide you with a clear understanding of what to expect.

Can sportspeople benefit from this procedure?

Brachioplasty involves the removal of excess skin, and individuals with a significant amount of excess skin often experience limitations in various activities, particularly in sports like golf or tennis, which require arm movement and swinging. This skin excess not only causes social discomfort and unhappiness for patients, potentially leading them to avoid such activities, but it also restricts flexibility. Ultimately, the primary benefit of reducing this excess skin is the boost in confidence it provides.

What is the recovery period like?

The duration of recovery following brachioplasty surgery can vary somewhat, but generally, patients can expect to resume most of their regular activities within approximately four to six weeks. Full recovery, where you can return to your usual routines without any limitations, is typically anticipated within three months and beyond.

How successful is brachioplasty surgery?

Brachioplasty surgery is exceptionally well-received when it's well planned and skilfully carried out. It boasts an impressively low rate of complications and demonstrates highly successful long-term results. For individuals who are suitable candidates and adequately prepared for the procedure, it proves to be an outstanding surgical operation.

Mr Simon Heppell OBE is a distinguished consultant plastic surgeon with over 30 years of experience. You can schedule an appointment with Mr Heppell on his Top Doctors profile.