Messed up brachioplasty? (Photo)

Question

I had brachioplasty 10 weeks ago and have a horrible scar on one arm and significant indentations making the arm look out of proportion from elbow to axilla. To make things worse there is still significant skin that I feel like should have been removed. Am I wrong to think that not enough skin was removed? What can I do about the scar and the indentions? Will this need to be redone?

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello, thank you for your questions regarding the appearance of your arms after your arm lift or brachioplasty.  Answering your questions is difficult without a thorough physical examination.  However, I will try.  Basically, you have 2 upper arm issues, namely your upper arm lift scars and the overall appearance of your arm lift.   In regards to your arm lift scar, I would suggest you apply a silicone based cream and silicone strips.  This silicone combination should be worn for at least 6 months.  If you are still not content with your arm lift scars after 6 months, a FRAXEL laser may help the arm lift scars.  In regards, to your overall arm lift results, I would be patient.  I would wait a good 6 to 8 months before you reevaluate your arms.  If you are still dissatisfied with your arm lift results after 8 months, please discuss your brachioplasty results with your plastic surgeon.  Many arm lift can be revised.  During arm lift revisions, I usually suggest arm liposuction, excision of more upper arm skin, and revision/removal of the entire prior arm lift scar.  I hope that I have answered your question regarding your arm lift or brachioplasty results.  If you have any more questions regarding an arm lift, arm reduction, brachioplasty, or arm lift scar revision, please contact my office.  Sincerely, Dr. Katzen

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Reduce tension on the exposed areas and apply Plato's Scar Serum on healed areas. This will take time to heal. Best, Dr. KaramanoukianLos Angeles

Omar Lazos, MD · Answer

Arm lift along with thigh lift are one of the most common reconstructive procedures that have wound dehiscence complications. This is because is a high mobile and wet area that tends to favor wound opening. Please stick with your surgeon to solve this issues and if you want a second opinion search for a certified surgeon, but its my tough that always stay with the surgeon that did the procedure and trust him all the way until problem is solved.

Sam Speron, MD, FACS · Answer

I suggest consulting with your plastic surgeon in regards to all of these questions. They would be best answered by your doctor. If you wish to have a second opinion I would recommend you make sure you are consulting with a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, if you are not already. Good luck during your healing process.

Gary L. Ross, MBChB, FRCS · Answer

You need regular dressings with your PS to get this healed and then after that advice on massage and scar management. The wounds will heal and the scars mature but best to see your PS for advice.

Messed up brachioplasty? (Photo)

Answers (5)