I've had a 350 pound weight loss resulting in excessive skin. I am wondering if procedures that remove the excess skin, such as a brachioplasty and upper body lift, cause a risk to damage of the lymph nodes? If there is a risk, what kind of problems could result?
October 6, 2023
Answer: Will lymph nodes be damaged or removed during brachioplasty and upper bodylift? Lymph nodes may be affected during brachioplasty (arm lift) and upper body lift procedures, but they are typically not intentionally removed. Surgeons aim to preserve lymph nodes as they play a crucial role in the body’s immune system and fluid drainage.However, during these surgeries, lymphatic vessels may be disrupted or temporarily affected, which can lead to localized swelling or lymphedema. Surgeons take precautions to minimize damage to the lymphatic drainage. It’s important to discuss the specifics of your surgery with your surgeon to understand any potential risks and how they plan to protect the lymphatic system during the procedure.
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October 6, 2023
Answer: Will lymph nodes be damaged or removed during brachioplasty and upper bodylift? Lymph nodes may be affected during brachioplasty (arm lift) and upper body lift procedures, but they are typically not intentionally removed. Surgeons aim to preserve lymph nodes as they play a crucial role in the body’s immune system and fluid drainage.However, during these surgeries, lymphatic vessels may be disrupted or temporarily affected, which can lead to localized swelling or lymphedema. Surgeons take precautions to minimize damage to the lymphatic drainage. It’s important to discuss the specifics of your surgery with your surgeon to understand any potential risks and how they plan to protect the lymphatic system during the procedure.
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February 17, 2017
Answer: Brachioplasty and Lymph Nodes Thank you so much for your question and congratulations on your weight loss! The major concentration of lymph nodes are located in the axilla and this procedure should not disrupt them. During a brachioplasty, we are simply removing excess skin and fat and should not be in your axilla at all. I would recommend that you find a board certified plastic surgeon in your area with experience in brachioplasty. It is possible, that a surgeon could be too aggressive and disrupt the lymphatic drainage which could cause swelling.
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February 17, 2017
Answer: Brachioplasty and Lymph Nodes Thank you so much for your question and congratulations on your weight loss! The major concentration of lymph nodes are located in the axilla and this procedure should not disrupt them. During a brachioplasty, we are simply removing excess skin and fat and should not be in your axilla at all. I would recommend that you find a board certified plastic surgeon in your area with experience in brachioplasty. It is possible, that a surgeon could be too aggressive and disrupt the lymphatic drainage which could cause swelling.
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