FAQs for Brachioplasty
When is the optimal time for my surgery?
Being in the best shape, mentally and physically with skin that is in optimal condition, as well as being close to your optimal weight is always best.
Will there be loose skin?
The quality of skin before surgery determines how the skin tightens or shrinks during the year after healing. The more stretched the skin is before the procedure, the less it will tighten. However, if skin is removed then the laxity will be significantly improved.
Where is the surgery performed?
Surgery is performed either at a private surgical facility or at Bridgeport Hospital.
What will I need to do before surgery?
You may be asked to obtain a medical evaluation by your family physician to ensure that you are in the best possible health.
Will I stay overnight?
No, you will go home the same day.
Will there be drainage?
Fluid is placed under the skin to aide in fat removal and to afford you the greatest comfort during and after surgery. Some of this pink or blood-tinged fluid will leak out from the small cut for 2-3 days following surgery.
Will I wear a garment?
You will be given supportive garments to be worn for at least 3 weeks. However; you may remove the support garments to shower starting the following day after surgery. When you resume more active exercise in 3-4 weeks, it is recommended that you wear an elastic sports garment for support.
Will smoking effect my healing?
Yes- The effect of each cigarette lasts 12 hours on the blood vessels, and the smoke is toxic. Consequently, smoking causes the skin to heal poorly and the complications associated with smoking are tremendous. Even second hand smoke during the weeks before and after surgery will adversely affect your results. Stopping is a must before and after any operation.
What form of Anesthesia is used?
You are gently put to sleep so that you will be comfortable throughout the operation. Once asleep, Dr. Rosenthal will place a local anesthetic under the skin so that you will feel no discomfort and the amount of medicine you receive during the operation will be minimized. By putting you to sleep your heart rate, blood pressure, and amount of oxygen will be optimized. Rest assured that being asleep for hours is generally very safe, so the 2.5-3.5 hours you sleep will be just fine.
How long will the surgery take?
I take my time and like to be meticulous. That means not rushing through your surgery. In addition, there are many things that must be done before the operation can start, including washing and preparing the area, making sure that your body is well cushioned, and placing your legs in special boots to compress them during the surgery. Likewise, at the end of surgery I need to wash you and apply a special well padded dressing. I will also wait in recovery after the surgery to be certain that all is going well before I leave
What can I expect?
Within a few weeks you will note an improvement in your shape. Large bulging areas will be smoother and better contoured. Clothing that used to bind you in these spots will fit much better. The improvement will be evident in weeks, but the final results will take at least one year.
When can I shower?
You may shower the day after surgery.
Where are the scars?
If only liposuction is performed the scars are positioned in areas visible. However, if skin is to be removed then the scar will run along the inner arm starting above the elbow and passing into the axilla. These scars take one year to finish healing. They are permanent but small.
Will there be pain?
Generally, there is moderate discomfort for the first week that is relieved with pain medication that I will prescribe for you. The second week after surgery the discomfort is minimal.
When can I resume activities?
It is best to relax for the first 10 days. Bruising is variable and usually located along the lower part of the arm. However, due to gravity, the swelling and bruising may descend to lower positions. After 3 weeks you should be almost back to your old self except with new and improved upper arms. It is not a good idea to exercise or increase your heart rate for 3 weeks from the time of surgery, and no vigorous lifting or exercise for 6 weeks from surgery. This will help to diminish your swelling and improve the rate at which you heal.
When can I drive again?
When you are able to move about without any discomfort and are not taking any pain or muscle relaxant medications. This is usually, between 7 and 10 days.
What can I do to expedite my healing?
We will give you a set of guidelines that inform you of what medicines to stay away from and which vitamins to take. Not allowing anyone to smoke in your presence for several weeks, using ice often, resting, maintaining a low salt diet, and having a positive attitude all go a long way to assisting your recovery.
Are there any additional fees to what was quoted?
If the surgery takes a bit longer (as there is never a rush) you may owe a bit more for the operating room and anesthesia. If future surgery or procedures are necessary there will be additional fees for anesthesia, the operating room and the surgeon.
When will I see Dr. Rosenthal?
Depending upon the combination of surgeries, you will revisit the office within 7-8 days. There will be multiple visits (which are included in your care) to evaluate your progress and support your healing needs.
