Can anything be done to correct arm bands after an arm lift? (photos)

Hello, Trustworthy69867. Thank you for your question regarding correcting arm bands after an arm lift.

Thank you for your history and your pictures. What you show in the pictures are called armbands. These are very common and are thought to be congenital, meaning you were probably born with these armbands. You may consider looking at your childhood pictures, especially when you were one or two years old, to see if these bands were present.

These armbands can be corrected, but it is not easy. The best option is the release of the armbands with a Z-plasty. A Z-plasty is a specialized reconstructive plastic surgery procedure that brings tissue into neighboring parts to allow the lengthening of the scar or, in this case, the armband. The Z-plasty needs to be placed accurately within the armband. Correction with the Z-plasty works better than liposuction and fat grafting to the depth of the armband.

Good luck. I hope I've answered your question regarding correcting armbands after an arm lift.

Sincerely,

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FASMBS, FICS
Plastic Surgeon

Hello; These bands are especially seen in patients; with fatty outer arms and the area; which is close to the elbow; when the arm is bent. Since they consist of excess skin on the outer part of the arm, unfortunately, there is not much that can be done.

Yes, liposuction can be added to help loosen the skin in those areas. If needed, the scars can be opened and shifted to help correct the banding.

An in person evaluation is best, but it is possible to improve the arm bands that concern you. A revision can remove excess skin and enhance the overall contour. Sometimes local liposuction is all that is needed for improvement.

Yes, there are several options to correct arm bands, or "dog ears," that can sometimes occur after an arm lift (brachioplasty). These bands are areas of excess skin or tissue at the end of the incision line, typically near the armpit or elbow, which can be aesthetically unpleasing. Here are some ways to address this issue:
1. Revision Surgery
• Excision of Excess Skin: The most common approach is a minor surgical revision to remove the excess skin and create a smoother contour. This procedure is typically less extensive than the initial arm lift and can often be done under local anesthesia.
• Liposuction: If the issue is due to excess fat rather than skin, liposuction can be used to refine the area.
2. Non-Surgical Options
• Laser Treatments: Certain laser therapies can help improve skin texture and elasticity, potentially reducing the appearance of minor irregularities.
• Radiofrequency: Treatments using radiofrequency energy can help tighten the skin and reduce small areas of laxity.
3. Massage and Compression
• Massage Therapy: Manual lymphatic drainage and regular massage can help reduce swelling and improve skin adherence to the underlying tissue.
• Compression Garments: Wearing compression garments as recommended by your plastic surgeon can help with the healing process and minimize the formation of bands.
4. Topical Treatments
• Silicone Sheets or Gels: These can help with scar management and may improve the appearance of the incision line, making irregularities less noticeable.
Consultation with a Surgeon
If you're experiencing issues with arm bands after an arm lift, it's essential to consult with your plastic surgeon. They can assess the extent of the problem and recommend the most appropriate treatment based on the specifics of your case. In many instances, a minor surgical revision is effective and provides satisfactory results.
Considerations
• Healing Time: Allow sufficient time for initial healing before considering corrective procedures. Swelling and tissue settling can take several months.
• Realistic Expectations: Discuss your expectations with your plastic surgeon to ensure you understand the potential outcomes of corrective procedures.
Addressing arm bands after an arm lift is often straightforward, and with the right approach, you can achieve a smoother and more aesthetically pleasing result.