Arm lipo or arm lift after VSG? (Photo)

Judging by your photographs it appears that you would require a full brachioplasty (arm lift) in order to achieve your goals. Although arm lift surgery in the past has been associated with unsightly scarring improvements have been made over the last several years resulting in more acceptable scar appearance.Brachioplasty or arm lift surgery is one of the most frequently requested body contouring procedures performed today. The demand for this procedure has increased more than 800% since 1997. This is the greatest percent change of any of the commonly performed cosmetic surgical procedures Much of the increase in popularity is due to the growing number of patients who undergo massive weight loss. In performing this procedure an incision is made on the inside of the arm extending from the elbow into the armpit. Sometimes it is necessary to extend the incision further into the armpit and sometimes past it. Utilizing this incision excess skin is removed and the wound is closed. It is very important to position the scar properly so that it is concealed as much as possible. A well-placed incision should result in a scar that is only visible when the arms are raised. This operation is normally performed as an outpatient. It is very important for the surgeon to discuss the resultant scar thoroughly with the patient preoperatively. Very commonly this scar takes a longer time to undergo the full healing and maturation process. Maturation refers to the process whereby the scar becomes less apparent. Brachioplasty scars commonly take up to 2 years to fully mature. Immediately after the operation compressive Ace wraps are placed from the fingers up to the armpit. These can normally be removed within 24-48 hours postoperatively. Elastic compression sleeves commonly worn by athletes can be purchased relatively inexpensively at any sporting good store. Many patients wear these for up for up to 2 weeks postoperatively. No vigorous activity or strenuous activity is recommended for 3 weeks postoperatively. Complications following a well planned and well executed brachioplasty are uncommon. They may include however wound infection or wound breakdown. Is very important to follow the directions of your surgeon postoperatively to ensure the best years improvements have been made in the performance of brachioplasty (arm lift) leaving better scars than had been achieved in the past. This includes more precise incision placement, better closure techniques and use of post operative scar reducing systems. With greater attention to these details the benefits of arm lift surgery can be achieved with more acceptable scarring than in the past.

Thank you for your question and congratulations on your weight loss so far!  Please keep in mind that achieving your stable goal weight will enhance the overall aesthetic result of any procedure.  Based on your photo, liposuction alone may improve your contour, but is unlikely to provide optimal correction due to skin laxity.  A brachioplasty or arm lift would likely provide the best result.  As you mentioned, the tradeoff would be a longer scar.  I would advise you to seek out an experienced plastic surgeon for an in-person consultation to discuss your weight loss goal, your goals and expectations from surgery, answer all your questions and to help you determine the best course of action.  Best wishes!