15 Wks Post-op Brachioplasty and my Arms Are Still Hanging. What Can I Do? (photo)

I had extensive brachioplasty 15 weeks ago. I have worn my compression garments continuosly. I have even started working out with a personal trainer which has helped a tiny bit. What else can I do? I'm only 25 lbs over weight which I'm working on losing but, I fear with weight loss it will worsen. Now I have a horrible scar and still have bat wings.

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7 Doctor Answers | Asked by prettyprincess01 in 17 weeks post op

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Less than satisfactory results after brachioplasty

Do happen. That is why it is imperative you understand your doctor's revision policy as most doctors have one. This covers the issues of who pays and what is covered. You result does not meet perfection but it must be an improvement over where you started from. Scarring from brachioplasty is well known and the reason the posterior scar technique has evolved and is favored by many understanding the scar is visible from behind with your arms at your sides. To get... more

Curtis Wong, MD

7 reviews

Redding Plastic Surgeon

Post-op Brachioplasty and my Arms Are Still Hanging

A preop photo for comparison would be helpful.But what you have now is what you have now, and I can certainly see the issues that are causing your dissatisfaction. The scar itself look about average. These are the most difficult scars for plastic surgeons to deal with because they are not hidden, and they are not placed in an area or direction that can be expected to form nice scars. That said, these typically continue to improve over the course of a year--less red, narrower,... more

Brachioplasty and its limitations

You have two of the most common limitations and perhaps complications of brachioplasty. One is inadequate excision leading to a poor result and residual skin. The other is a poor scar. As our experience has grown we have realized that fairly aggressive excision is the rule. Otherwise you will have residual skin. Also the position of the scar and the post-operative care of the scar determines the best possible outcome for the scar. Having said that, brachioplasty scar is at risk of thickening... more

Bat Wings After A Brachioplasty

Needless to say, you should have no bat wings after a brachioplasty. The scars after a brachioplasty can sometimes be very unattractive. The tricks to getting a thinner, finer scar in a brachioplasty require understanding of good wound healing techniques: use dissolvable sutures that last at least 6 months in the deeper tissue to take the tension off the superficial repair; put in subcuticular sutures with buried knots; close the skin with a running intradermal, usually... more

Arm Lifting Revision Necessary?

Although it is not possible to give you precise advise without direct examination, based on your description you may benefit from further arm lifting surgery. I would suggest that you continue to do as you are doing with the weight loss and then seek consultation with well experienced board-certified plastic surgeons who can demonstrate significant experience helping patients in your situation. There should be no reason you are left with “bat wings” after arm lifting surgery. Hopefully,... more

Scar from arm lift

There are different approaches to arm lift scar. The best location of the scar is below the arm so it is not visible. You may need a revision some time down the road. At that point, the scar can be repositioned in an un-noticeable location.