A Technique of Brachioplasty

Abstract

Various techniques for the management of upper extremity contour deformities have been suggested since aesthetic brachioplasty was first described. Such deformities are commonplace with aging, after normal weight loss, and especially after massive weight loss such as is seen following bariatric surgery. Despite the multiplicity of procedures described for the correction of these deformities, there are still problems associated with current brachioplasty techniques, including incorrectly placed incisions, widened hypertrophic scars, and postoperative contour deformities. In addition, postoperative skin laxity and ptosis in the axillary region are frequently encountered in the more extreme deformities. The authors present their technique for upper extremity brachioplasty. This technique is suitable for patients with severe brachial ptosis and skin laxity, with relatively little lipomatous tissue, which may extend from the olecranon to the chest wall. The described surgical approach provides excellent overall extremity contour with favorable scars while simultaneously addressing axillary contour deformities.