Do I have arm lift dog ears? (Photo)

Question

After arm lift I have this triangle pointing down under both arms close to my arm pits. Can this be fixed? If so how long is recovery. I think my PS went out of business. He don't answer phone or return calls.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

From your history and pictures, it's evident you have excess skin and a bit of fat in the armpit area, commonly referred to as "dog ears" post arm lift. This can be revised by surgically removing the excess. Such a procedure can typically be done under local anesthesia in a doctor's office, with roughly a week of recovery. Keeping your arms by your sides post-surgery is crucial to minimize tension on the incision, as undue tension can lead to the incision opening.
If your initial surgeon is no longer available, a quick online search should lead you to nearby plastic surgeons. Dog ear revisions post arm lift are not rare, and most surgeons should be equipped to handle them.
Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen.

George Bitar, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  You are a candidate for an armlift revision to address your remaining concerns.  This can usually be accomplished un the office under local anesthesia.  Discuss with your surgeon or consult with another surgeon.

Robert Drielsma, MBBS, BSc, FRACS · Answer

Based on your photographs alone, it does appear that you have dog ears following your surgery.  These are usually very easy to rectify under a local anesthetic in an office based setting.  Speak to your surgeon about this.

R. Scott Yarish, MD · Answer

No matter what you call it, you have tissue irregularities that can be easily managed by selective excision of skin and/or fat from selected areas.  You do indeed have a "dog ear" under your arm, but there are other uneven areas as well.  I'm sure your surgeon would be willing to create a more even and satisfying result.  This can be done under local anesthesia in most cases.

Amira Sanki, MBBS Hons, FRACS, PhD · Answer

Some dog ears settle down after surgery, but if it has been a few months since your operation then you will likely require a surgical revision. They appear to be quite small and would therefore be amenable to improving under local anaesthetic. A dog ear is treated by excising the standing triangle or cone of skin. This results in a longer scar but much better contour. Sometimes it is best to combine this with a z-plasty to avoid a scar contracture in your armpit. A properly qualified plastic surgeon will be very aware of this. Perhaps you could contact the hospitals where your surgeon works to try to find out if he has relocated his rooms? Good luck.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

I am sorry to hear about your concerns. Yes, based on the photographs, it is likely that you are dealing with some "dog ears". Fortunately, these areas can be improved upon relatively simply, usually under local anesthesia. Best wishes.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

YES! But I have NEVER seen this result in 35 years in practice. Poor attention to detail Are you sure the surgeon was a boarded PS/////

Peter Fisher, MD (retired) · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. Yes I believe that those are dog ears. They are small and can be removed using local anesthetics in the office. Find a board certified ps near where you live. I'm sure that they will take care of you.Peter Fisher M.D.

Do I have arm lift dog ears? (Photo)

Answers (8)

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