This depends on the quality of the skin and amount of fat that needs to be removal. In general if the skin quality is good and only a small amount of fat needs removal this can be done with liposuction alone avoiding any significant scarring. As we age the skin loses elasticity and the ability to shrink down after liposuction leaving excess skin behind. Particularly if a moderate to large fat reduction is required this excess skin requires removal as well. Dr Stradwick will discuss the options in detail at your consultation.

Usually there is minimal bleeding and drains are not needed.  In cases of greater than average bleeding Dr Stradwick would use a drain however.  This is typically removed within 24 hours.

Because brachioplasty is essentially an operation of skin and fat it does not have a reputation for being painful.  Long acting local anaesthetic solution is used at the time of surgery to minimise early wound pain.  Often with the simultaneous liposuction the nerves to the skin are bruised and areas of numbness are actually more common.  This numbness is usually temporary and recovers quickly. 

Yes. A compression garment is used to help limit swelling and to maintain the new contour of the upper arm as the early stages of healing take place.  The garment is used in the first 3 weeks and is typically not needed after this time.

Dr Stradwick recommends a 2 week minimum period of rest.  It is important to avoid manual household chores or work during this time.  Provided the wounds are healing well a gradual resumption of normal activities can then occur.  Obviously this is dependant on the individual with those needing to perform heavy manual work the slowest to return.  This would need to be discussed with Dr Stradwick at your consultation. 

A very important factor is correct scar placement and careful suturing at the time of your operation.  That depends on your surgeon.  It is also critical that the post- operative instructions are followed particularly in regard to rest and recuperation.  The wounds must be given time to heal properly.  The scars themselves do take up to a year to fully settle but most of the improvement occurs in the first 3 months.  Dr Stradwick will recommend that the scars be covered with the tape provided at the clinic for at least 6 weeks.  Depending on progress he will then make further recommendations to obtain the best possible scar.