What does arm liposuction involve?
The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis with local anesthesia and light to moderate sedation. The technique must be carried out with extreme precision, using very fine cannulas in the superficial plane to avoid damaging blood vessels, especially the lymphatic vessels, which are abundant near the armpit. The cannula is inserted vertically to help protect them.
At the end of the surgery, compression sleeves are applied. As with all postoperative garments, they must be worn for one to one and a half months. Bruising is normal. Postoperative pain is uncommon, and mild pain relief is usually sufficient. Patients can return to their normal activities in a short time.
The day after surgery, it is possible to shower without any issues and move the arms freely. Regular lymphatic drainage is recommended. Swelling in the treated area is very common. It is also important to exercise the arms, especially strengthening the triceps, which are key to maintaining upper arm tone.
Results can typically be seen after 2–3 months. However, if there is significant skin laxity or an excessive amount of fat, the procedure may not be effective, and brachioplasty may be a better option. For patients with only small fat deposits and good skin elasticity, arm liposuction is a simple, effective solution that can achieve results impossible to obtain with massage or exercise alone.