L-Brachioplasty: An Adaptable Technique for Moderate to Severe Excess Skin and Fat of the Arms

Abstract

The L-brachioplasty is an L-shaped pattern of excision with the long limb from the elbow to the axilla and the short limb extending at right angles through the axilla and along the lateral chest. The width of the excisions through the arm, axilla and chest is based on preoperative assessment through anatomical point locations followed by pinch and gathering maneuvers. The following modifications have improved aesthetics and reduced complications: 1) improved geometric design, 2) anchor fixation of the posterior V-shaped advancement flap to the deltopectoral fascia, 3) excision site liposuction (ESL), and 4) and barbed suture closure. The free hand markings are followed by measuring equal anterior and posterior incision distances. The subcutaneous fat within the excision site is completely suctioned. After the perimeter is incised, the skin resection begins full thickness from the chest and through the axilla and then the skin only through proximal to distal arm skin. An anchor suture advances the posterior triangular flap to the deltopectoral fascia. A long-lasting absorbable barbed suture is passed through as a running horizontal mattress, starting from the center of the wound. A second continuous rapidly absorbing barbed intradermal suture completes the closure. Over the past 30 arms, only one seroma was aspirated on one occasion. There have been no lymphoceles. Appreciable swelling is over within a month. Incision dehiscence was limited to less than one centimeter in five patients. Tip necrosis of the V advancement flap occurred in three arms, leaving small wounds in the axilla to heal secondarily. Minor secondary skin reduction is rare. There were no contractures across the axilla. The women appreciated the reduced hair and axillary hollow. In most cases the skin laxity was corrected and the contour from the arm across the axilla to the lateral chest was excellent. No patient expressed regret over their scar.