Enhanced Liposuction for Arms

Abstract

Arm contouring is a desired goal of the arm esthetics. Brachioplasty is a developing and safe surgery to improve the arm silhouette but scar is a one of the most distracting factor for both patients and surgeons. In this chapter conventional liposuction with laser assisted liposuction (LAL) is proposed to yield satisfactory results in selected group of patients. Classification systems are helpful to decide for proper patient selection for this technique. It includes assessment of fat excess, skin excess, and location of the deformity (proximal, entire arm, arm and chest). Patients with minimal to extensive fat deposits plus minimal to moderate skin laxity are the best candidates for this approach. When properly performed, with realistic expectations, liposuction and LAL combination is considerably a procedure of choice for arm contouring in these selected cases. The contraction of arm skin is considerably consistent. Our approach, except in the most extreme cases, is to initially recommend liposuction and possibly even a second liposuction prior to recommending brachioplasty. An esthetically pleasant result can be obtained even in massive arms with good skin tone. Massive arms with poor skin tone, however, may not. Patient selection and preoperative planning are discussed in detail. A thorough description for patient positioning and anesthesia options are studied. The technique of the liposuction is widely described including specific regional contour goals with artistic attention to enhance the contour. Refinement regarding skin tightening and skin surface smoothness are also discussed. Arm contouring is a growing field of body contouring and can be practiced with low complication rates and high patient satisfaction. Available classification systems help to select proper patient group. Laser assisted fat removal combined with conventional liposuction are promising procedures for selected patients.