Can a Bra Line Back Lift Be Done Just in the Under Arm Area and Not Extended So Far into the Back?

      This is certainly a possibility, but this decision would be based upon your anatomy.   Find a plastic surgeon with ELITE credentials who performs hundreds of body contouring procedures each year.  Then look at the plastic surgeon's website before and after photo galleries to get a sense of who can deliver the results. 

Kenneth Hughes, MD Los Angeles, CA

Thank you for your question about the possibility of limiting the incision of a bra-line back lift to the arm area. For a thorough understanding, a physical examination would ideally be necessary.
Vertical and horizontal are two main types of back lifts or Torsoplasties. A vertical Torsoplasty involves an incision extending from your arm down the side to the bra line, bottom of the rib cage, or even the top of the hip. Meanwhile, a horizontal Torsoplasty involves an incision made either partially or completely across your back. This results in the removal of a large butterfly-shaped area of excess skin and fat.
Based on my experience, horizontal Torsoplasties typically result in more skin removal than vertical ones. However, if you're concerned about the extent of the scar, a vertical Torsoplasty could be a viable option. Suppose you were to opt for a limited incision horizontal Torsoplasty, focusing only on the area under your arm. In that case, it may result in a significant residual skin fold, or "dog ear". Consequently, I would recommend considering a vertical Torsoplasty.
I hope this provides some clarity on whether a bra-line back lift can be done focusing just under the arm.
Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Thanks for your question and I think you have the right idea-- the procedure can be modified but it's important to chat with a plastic surgeon who understands the procedure well, its limitations and the pros and cons of a shorter scar.  That being said, it is certainly reasonable to modify the scar length to just address a particular area.  Great question!

It's important to understand that no two patients are ever exactly the same. For this reason, it's important to tailor procedures to meet patients individual needs. This will depend upon their anatomic findings and aesthetic goals.In this particular case, it's reasonable to perform an abbreviated bra line back lift. This procedure should be able to remove excess fat and skin without excessive scars and, hopefully, still accomplish your aesthetic goals.If you're considering this type of surgical procedure, it's important to consult a board certified plastic surgeon with experience in this area. This surgeon should be able to formulate a treatment plan that addresses your anatomic findings and achieves your aesthetic goals.

Hello, and thank you for your question. (Keep in mind that an in-person consultation is necessary for the best advice.) If you are willing to accept the scars of a skin excision just under the arms, doing a limited excision may be reasonable. A physical exam is still necessary to confirm that you are a candidate for such a procedure. If you decide to pursue surgery it’s very important that you find a surgeon whom you are comfortable with and trust and who evaluates you in-person and tailors an individualized treatment plan for you and your aesthetic goals. Best of luck!
Matthew A. DelMauro, M.D.

To treat the excess skin in your back, there are several different treatment options.  Where the scar will exactly be located will depending on the amount and distribution of loose skin.  Please see a board certified PS to learn more about your options.

Dr. Basu

houston, tx

Dear Aethera,

Thank you for your question. Every patient is different, and certainly, if this is where you have laxity, and not in the back area, than an abbreviated bra-line back lift can be accomplished. 

Best Wishes,

Pablo Prichard, MD

Great question! Yes, removal of skin from the upper arm and armpit (brachioplasty) and from lateral breast area (as an extension from the breast lift incision) can improve the skin excess in the upper lateral chest wall in both women and men, within limits. Everyone is a little different in how their skin responds to massive weight loss, and each operation should be "tailored" to your needs. A surgeon experienced in these procedures should be able to give you an idea of just what you'll need. 

I believe this is a difficult question to answer without a plastic surgeon evaluating the area. The degree of laxity determines how long the incision needs to be and where it can be located. Sometimes it can be vertically placed under the axilla, other times it needs to follow the bra. I would recommend you get a consultation to evaluate the area.