Arm Lift Surgery in Melbourne, Victoria by Dr Carmen
An Arm Lift, medically known as Brachioplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to alter the appearance of the upper arms by removing excess skin and fat that may result from ageing, weight loss, or genetic factors. This procedure removes excess skin, resulting in a tighter upper arm appearance. This procedure can help address skin ptosis (excess skin) that does not respond to diet and exercise. Although Arm Lift surgery involves the removal of loose skin, it may also include liposuction to reduce localised fat deposits.
Dr Carmen Munteanu is a highly-skilled, Female Specialist Plastic Surgeon with experience performing Arm Lift surgery. She provides dedicated and compassionate care to her patients who wish to undergo this surgery to alter the shape their upper arms.
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Arm Lift Surgery
Am I a Suitable candidate for an Arm Lift?
A good candidate for Arm Lift surgery (Brachioplasty) typically has excess, lax skin on the upper arms that does not respond to diet and exercise. Suitable candidates often meet the following criteria:
- Excess Skin and Tissue: Individuals with significant excess skin on the upper arms, often due to ageing, significant weight loss, or genetics, may benefit from an Arm Lift.
- Stable Weight: Candidates should be at a stable weight, as fluctuations can impact the longevity of results. Those who have recently lost a significant amount of weight should wait until their weight stabilises.
- Overall Good Health: Good candidates are generally in good physical health, free from conditions that could impair healing, such as uncontrolled diabetes or active infections.
- Non-Smoker: Smoking can interfere with the healing process and increase the risk of complications, so suitable candidates need to be non-smokers or those willing to quit for a period before and after surgery.
- Realistic Expectations: It’s essential for candidates to have realistic expectations regarding the results of the procedure and understand both the possible benefits and potential scarring associated with surgery.
- Committed to a good lifestyle: Since maintaining results requires a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, individuals committed to these habits tend to be more suitable candidates.
A consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon like Dr Carmen is necessary to assess suitability for an Arm Lift, discuss goals and make sure candidates have a clear understanding of the procedure and recovery process.
Potential Benefits of Arm Lift Surgery
- Arm Contour: Arm Lift surgery removes excess skin and fat, resulting in a firmer arm shape and tighter appearance.
- Reduction of Skin Irritation: Excess skin can sometimes cause chafing, rashes, or skin irritation. Removing this skin can alleviate these issues.
- Mobility and Comfort: In some cases, excess skin on the arms can hinder mobility or cause discomfort. Removing this skin can ease movement.
- Hygiene: Excess skin can sometimes lead to hygiene issues, such as sweating or fungal infections in skin folds. Removing this extra tissue, can increase hygiene.
- Long-Lasting Results: When patients maintain an active, nutritious lifestyle and stable weight, the results of Brachioplasty surgery can be long-lasting.
Brachioplasty Before and After Photos
Disclaimer: All before and after photos on this website feature actual patients who have undergone procedures performed by Dr. Carmen Munteanu, with their written consent for use. These images represent individual outcomes and may not reflect the results other patients will achieve. Factors such as genetics, overall health, and adherence to post-operative care can influence individual results. While these images provide a visual representation of potential results, they do not guarantee similar outcomes for all patients.
See Arm lift before and after pics of real patients of Dr Carmen – Female Specialist Plastic Surgeon in Melbourne.
The Arm Lift Surgical Procedure
Anaesthesia
For patient comfort and safety throughout the procedure, you will be administered general anaesthetic. Dr Carmen only offers this procedure under General Anaesthesia.
Incisions
The exact length and placement of the incision will vary depending on the extent and location of the excess skin to be removed. Typically, the incision is made along the inner or back of the arm and may extend from the underarm to just above the elbow or through the underarm and down the side of the chest.
Fat extraction
Excess fat may be removed either by direct excision or through liposuction, depending on individual needs and Dr Carmens chosen technique.
Closing Incisions
Once the underlying supportive tissues have been reshaped and tightened using internal sutures, the overlying skin will be repositioned and incisions will be closed with either dissolvable sutures, or stitches which will require removal at a follow up appointment. After the procedure, dressings and bandages will be applied to the surgical site.
Patients may also be provided with a compression garment or elastic bandage to support the arm, help control swelling and protect the incisions during healing. In some cases, a small drainage tube may be placed temporarily to remove excess fluid or blood from the site, which can aid in the healing process and reduce the risk of complications.
Recovery after Arm Lift surgery
Recovery following Brachioplasty surgery typically involves several weeks of gradual healing. During this period, it’s essential to follow post-operative care instructions closely to optimise results and reduce the risk of complications.
In the first few days after surgery, patients can expect some swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort in the arms. Pain medication prescribed by Dr Carmen can help manage any discomfort, while wearing the provided compression garment helps control swelling and supports the changed contour of the arm.
Patients are generally advised to keep their arms elevated as much as possible during the initial recovery phase to reduce swelling. Light arm movements can help promote blood circulation. However, patients should avoid strenuous activities, including heavy lifting and vigorous arm exercises for several weeks.
The first two weeks after surgery are the most restrictive. It is after the two week mark that most patients can return to light, non-strenuous activities, including desk-work. Patients that have a physically demanding job (like emergency service workers, trades people, personal trainers and hairdressers) will require more time off before they are able to resume work duties.
Full recovery and a return to regular physical activities, including exercise, usually require at least 4-6 weeks, depending on individual healing rates and the specifics of the surgery.
The incisions made during surgery will gradually heal over time. Patients will receive instructions on how to care for their incisions, including; keeping them clean and dry and avoiding exposure to sunlight until fully healed, as this can reduce the severity of scarring. Over the following months, scars will continue to fade, although they will remain visible to some extent.
Follow-up appointments
Regular follow-up appointments with Dr Carmen are crucial to monitor the healing process and optimise recovery. Patients should discuss any concerns or unusual symptoms, such as increased swelling, redness, or severe pain, with Dr Carmen and her team promptly to address potential issues early.
The above information is general information only. We will provide you with tailored, detailed instructions for caring for the surgical site, as well as medications you may need to take orally or apply to help with the healing process and recovery. You will also be given a time for a follow-up consultation with Dr Carmen. To optimise your surgical result, please be sure to follow these instructions.
Risks and Complications
As with any surgical procedure, Brachioplasty comes with its own set of risks and potential complications. These can include bleeding, bruising, infection, wound healing problems, and pain. Additionally, there is a risk of scarring, asymmetry, and changes in sensation. It is crucial to discuss these risks and complications with Dr Carmen to determine if Brachioplasty is the right choice for you. A thorough consultation will help you understand the potential outcomes before proceeding with the surgery.
All surgery has risks – for detailed information about the risks and potential complications of Arm Lift surgery please visit the risks of surgery page.
Planning your Arm Lift
At your pre-operative consultation, Dr Carmen will discuss your goals, expectations, age, medical history and any risk factors.
Following an examination, Dr Carmen will then provide you with her recommendations as to the most suitable options to achieve your desired results, as well the likely outcomes.
You will then be provided with an individualised recommended treatment plan.
Longer-term results
The effects of Arm Lift surgery are intended to be long-lasting, especially when patients maintain a stable weight and active lifestyle. However, certain factors can influence the long-term appearance of the arms.
While ageing may eventually lead to some skin laxity, patients who follow Dr Carmen’s aftercare instructions and remain committed to a good lifestyle will enjoy the results of their Arm Lift for many years. Regular follow-up visits with Dr Carmen can also help monitor progress and the longevity of the results.
Maintaining a stable weight is crucial, as significant weight fluctuations can stretch the remaining skin, potentially diminishing the procedure’s effects. Although firmness will decrease gradually with age, the majority of the changes achieved through an Arm Lift should be relatively long lasting if health and fitness are maintained.
How much is a Arm Lift in Melbourne? – Surgery Costs and Hospital Fees
The cost of an Arm Lift in Melbourne can vary based on several factors, including the extent of the procedure, the surgeon’s fees, and the hospital fees.
Dr Carmen’s team will provide you with a customised quote for your surgery depending on the specifics of your procedure. It will also include the surgeon’s fees, hospital fees, and anesthesia fees.
In some cases, private health insurance may cover a portion of the costs if the procedure is medically necessary. It is essential to discuss the costs and fees with a specialist plastic surgeon to get a comprehensive understanding of the total cost of the procedure. This will help you plan accordingly and explore any available payment options.
An approximate price range for your Arm Lift surgery can be provided over the phone when you speak to a Patient Care Advisor.
Find out more about Payment options, Prices and Consultation Fees
Choosing an Arm Lift Surgeon in Melbourne
Choosing the right Arm Lift surgeon for you is a crucial part of the process. Here are some factors to consider:
- Qualifications: Look for a surgeon who is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) and has extensive experience in Arm Lift surgery. This certification certifies that the surgeon has undergone rigorous training and adheres to high standards of practice.
- Experience: Choose a surgeon who has performed numerous Brachioplasty surgeries. Experience is key to achieving optimal results and reducing the risk of complications.
- Reputation: Research the surgeon’s reputation online and ask for referrals from friends, family, or other healthcare professionals. Positive reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the surgeon’s skills and patient satisfaction.
- Communication: Choose a surgeon who communicates clearly and effectively, and who takes the time to answer your questions and concerns. A good surgeon-patient relationship is essential for a positive surgical experience.
- Facilities: The surgeon operates in a fully accredited and equipped facility, with a team of experienced nurses and anaesthetists. High-quality facilities contribute to increased surgical outcomes and patient safety.
Why choose Dr Carmen Munteanu to perform your Arm Lift Surgery?
As a female Specialist Plastic Surgeon, Dr Carmen Munteanu brings a unique balance of compassion, understanding, and empathy to her patients, alongside her extensive skills, qualifications, and experience in plastic surgery.
For many patients, having a female surgeon can provide an added sense of comfort and ease, particularly when discussing sensitive concerns or undergoing procedures that may feel more vulnerable. Dr. Munteanu’s approachable nature and patient-focused care foster a supportive environment, helping patients feel respected and understood throughout their surgical journey.
