Many patients seek a brachioplasty following significant weight loss, ageing or changes in skin elasticity that leave loose or hanging skin through the upper arms. In some patients, this excess tissue can lead to discomfort, skin irritation, difficulty with clothing fit or self-consciousness regarding arm appearance.

Factors which affect suitability for surgery include: 

• Smoking
• Obesity
• Unstable weight
• Poor nutritional status
• Poorly controlled medical conditions

If these factors are relevant to you the Morphē team will work with you to address them prior to surgery. This can include treatment from our dietitians, endocrinologist, psychologist or obesity doctors. 

At Morphē clinic, you will have access to a multidisciplinary team of clinicians and therapists who work together to help optimise your preparation for surgery and support the best possible outcome.

This may include:

• dietitian support to optimise protein intake, micronutrients and wound healing capacity
• assessment of weight stability, ideally for at least six months before surgery
• medical weight loss treatments, where appropriate
• psychological support, if required.

A brachioplasty is performed under general anaesthetic and usually takes around two to three hours.

During the surgery, Dr Alex Cameron will remove an elliptical area of excess skin from the arm. To aid in tissue removal, liposuction is often used to thin the tissue and reduce the volume of the remaining soft tissue.

Post tissue-extraction, the excess skin is removed using a modified avulsion technique, which aims to preserve as many lymphatic structures and small blood vessels as possible. This is intended to help reduce post-operative swelling and lower the risk of lymphoedema, seroma and wound healing issues.

Once the skin has been removed, the incisions are closed with layered dissolvable sutures. The wounds are then dressed with Prineo, a skin closure system that combines surgical adhesive with a mesh dressing to support the incision as it heals. For most patients, drains are not required.

Dr Cameron performs brachioplasty procedures at Burnside Hospital, St Andrew’s Hospital or Glenelg Community Hospital.

For most patients, a brachioplasty will remove enough loose skin and tissue that discomfort, rashes, issues with clothing and similar symptoms will subside.

The procedure can also significantly improve the shape and contour of the arms. Your final result will depend on factors such as your underlying muscle definition, remaining fatty tissue, skin elasticity and how your body scars.

The aim is to create a more comfortable, balanced arm shape while tailoring the result to your individual anatomy.

Recovery after a brachioplasty varies from person to person, but most patients can expect some pain, tightness and swelling for the first one to two weeks. You may go home the same day or stay in hospital overnight, depending on your procedure and recovery.

A customised compression garment is usually worn for around six weeks to support the arms as they heal and help manage swelling. Swelling of the arms, and sometimes the hands, is expected and gradually improves over time. In some cases, it can take six to twelve months to fully settle.

In the first 7-14 days post-brachioplasty, you will experience some pain that can be easily managed with a combination of simple analgesics (paracetamol, anti-inflammatories) and stronger, prescription pain relief when required (Palexia/Tapentadol or Endone/Oxycodone).

As a general guide:

• Walking: 1–2 weeks
• Jogging: 2–4 weeks
• Gym and lifting: 6–8 weeks
• Swimming: around 6 weeks
• Driving: usually 2–4 weeks
• Desk-based work: usually 2–4 weeks
• Physical work: usually 6–8 weeks

The procedure will leave you with a fine scar that shouldn’t be visible unless looking closely. The position of the scar can vary, and will be discussed with you during your consultation. For most patients, a posterior-medial scar is the most appropriate option, although this can be tailored to your individual anatomy and preferences.

Scars continue to change for around twelve months. We will guide you through scar care, which may include scar massage, silicone therapy and sun protection. Lymphatic massage from Morphē’s lymphatic therapists is also recommended to support your recovery.

A series of six follow-up appointments are scheduled over the first twelve months after surgery, however Dr Cameron is happy to see you at any stage if you have concerns or would like your progress checked.

All surgery carries some degree of risk. These risks are reduced through careful preparation, surgical planning, and the experience and judgement of Dr Cameron and the Morphē team.

General risks of body contouring surgery will be discussed with you before your procedure.

Risks specific to a brachioplasty may include:

• Scarring: the arm can be more prone to thickened or stretched scars than some other areas. Scar massage, silicone therapy and, in some cases, laser treatment may help. Occasionally, scar revision may be required.
• Wound healing issues: small areas of delayed healing can occur, especially if the incision extends into the underarm area. This risk may be higher for patients with diabetes, a higher BMI or other health factors. Most wound healing issues are minor and can be managed with dressings.
• Swelling: some swelling is expected and usually improves over six to twelve months. Compression garments and lymphatic massage can help support this process.

Risks specific to a brachioplasty may include: (cont.)

• Altered sensation: temporary changes in sensation around the scar are common and usually improve over three to six months. Occasionally, this can extend into the forearm. Permanent altered sensation is rare, but can occur.
• Seroma or lymphocele: this is an uncommon fluid collection beneath the skin. If it occurs, it can usually be drained in the clinic.
• Asymmetry or contour irregularity: minor asymmetry is common and often improves as swelling settles. In some cases, the skin may stretch slightly over time, causing a small amount of looseness to return. This rarely requires further treatment.