Brachioplasty

Abstract

Patients with sagging lax skin along the entire length of the upper arm are excellent candidates for arm reduction surgery extending from the elbow to axilla. In many patients and in all after massive weight loss, the axilla and along the upper lateral chest also have redundant skin. These patients are well served by an L-shaped brachioplasty. Method The detailed progression of surgical marking is described. Critical intraoperative steps are described. Then a typical operative note document is provided. Discussion The planning and technique of the L brachioplasty can be adapted to a variety of presentations of tissue laxity of the upper arm, axilla, and lateral chest. This operative report covers the usual presentation as an isolated procedure. Conclusion Essential steps, intraoperative details, and model operative note of the typical L brachioplasty are presented for the practicing plastic surgeon.