Is minimal scarring brachioplasty as effective as the traditional long scar?

Question

Is the minimal scar brachioplasty as effective as the traditional long scar? Will your arms be as tight?

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear HarperSye,
it is hard to tell for sure without an examination. Generally speaking, longer incisions will allow more skin removal. If you are considering surgery, I would suggest you consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination, you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question regarding whether minimal brachioplasty is as effective as the traditional long scar brachioplasty. Also, will your arms be tight with a minimal versus traditional long scar brachioplasty? In plastic surgery, there is a saying. The saying goes, "The longer the scar, the better and more extensive your results." Comparing the minimal or crescent arm scar to the traditional long arm scar is comparing apples and oranges. With a minimal brachioplasty, a small crescent area of skin is taken from the upper inner arm, usually with the width of the specimen being about 3 centimeters. It affects the upper inner arm and tightens it. It does not affect the middle or 1/3 of the upper arm. In contrast, the traditional long brachioplasty provides a much better result.
An incision is made from the armpit to the elbow during a traditional Brachioplasty. Excess skin and fat are permanently removed in an elliptical fashion. The arms are much tighter than a traditional longitudinal brachioplasty. In comparison to a minimal scar brachioplasty. Also, the overall effect of a traditional long scar brachioplasty is much more apparent than a minimal scar brachioplasty. My suggestion is to undergo the traditional underarm scar brachioplasty for maximal results. Scars fade. And multiple options can be done to minimize scarring. I hope this helps answer your question regarding whether minimal brachioplasty is as effective as the traditional long scar brachioplasty.
I specialize in arm lifts.  I hope that I have answered your questions regarding the arm reduction.  If you have any more questions regarding the arm lift, arm reduction, brachioplasty or arm crease fat grafting, please contact my office.  Since a brachioplasty or arm lift surgery is a difficult procedure, please seek an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon with significant experience performing these types of arm lifts. Do your research.  Make sure your chosen plastic surgeon has performed at least 100 arm lifts.  Make sure they have the before and after pictures to prove it.  Carefully examine their before and after pictures and check their reviews on RealSelf.

Kristopher Day, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi Harper, 
The short answer is maybe. A select group of people need only a short scar technique, which is usually combined with liposuction. There is generally more overall impact for larger surgeries, though these also have more of a scar. So it's a tradeoff and depends on your expectations and starting anatomy. You would be able to learn more in a consultation. 
Thank you,Dr. Kris Day

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

The length of the scar will influence the amount of tissue that is able to be removed.  A shorter scar brachioplasty will remove less tissue, however it is all that is needed for some patients.  During a consultation with your board certified plastic surgeon you can discuss your goals for surgery and it will be determined which scar pattern is best for you.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

No, the minimal scar is short and less skin is removed. Those with weight loss and lots of lose skin all the way to the elbow will do better with the traditional scar. You might be a candidate for minimally invasive radiofrequency skin tightening like Renuvion, and this can be combined with liposuction if needed. Since you did not post photos, go for consultation.

Is minimal scarring brachioplasty as effective as the traditional long scar?

Answers (8)

Answer: Minimal scar brachioplasty

Answer: Minimal scar brachioplasty

Answer: Arm lift

Answer: Arm lift

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Arm Lift

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Is minimal scarring brachioplasty as effective as the traditional long scar?

Answers (8)

Answer: Minimal scar brachioplasty

Answer: Minimal scar brachioplasty

Answer: Arm lift

Answer: Arm lift

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Arm Lift

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.