What incision is best for a brachioplasty? Inner arm or back of the arm?

Every surgeon reconstructive plastic surgeon has their own way of doing reconstructive plastic surgery. Some plastic surgeons  prefer to place their arm lift or brachioplasty incision in the inner arm between the biceps and triceps.   The incision extends from the armpit to the elbow.  The beauty of this type of armlift or brachioplasty incision is that the incision is hidden. This is because we usually hold our arms down by our sides.  With the arms held at our sides, this arm lift incision and resultant scar are concealed. The beauty of positioning the scar between the biceps and triceps is that it is rarely visible and is typically visible only when one’s arms are raised. However, some reconstructive plastic surgeons prefer to place their incision on the back of the arm. Typically, the incision is placed on the back of the arm or triceps region.  Technically,  I find this technique easier to perform and may have less risks of wound breakdown. The significant downside to placing the scar on the back of the arm is that the incision and resulting scar are clearly visible. This is why I prefer to place the incision between the biceps and triceps.  I think an incision placed between the biceps and triceps provides a superior result than the incision on the back of the arm. However, every plastic surgeon has their preference. What ever the technique or placement of the scar, I believe compression and silicone gel sheeting are very important. I would continue compression and silicone gel sheeting for eight weeks after the arm lift or brachioplasty.
 
Sincerely, 
Dr.Katzen

Thank you for you question!  The incisions for a Brachioplasty can be customized to accommodate your lifestyle and your desired results.  The general recommendation for placement of the incision is either on the back of the arm or on the inside of your arm.  I recommend that your Surgeon simulate the placement of your incision with a marker prior to surgery, so that you can determine the area that you are most pleased with.

Brachioplasty scar can be very visible and unsightly. The choice of arm tuck scars in either in the inner arm which shows when a person opens their arms or in the back, which will show from the back! Fortunately, I have devised a Hidden Scar Brachioplasty Technique which places the scar at the lowest junction between the front and the back of the arm, more or less, where the seam of a jacket would go. In this way the Brachioplasty scar would not be visible from either the front or the back!