Arm Liposuction Questions and Answers

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Question:

I had a breast reduction in January 2001. I went from an overflowing 40DD to a C cup. Prior to surgery I was told that some lipo is generally done given the shape of my breasts and where/how the reduction would be done. The lipo was to be done where the incision would stop beneath my arms and a small amount in the arm pit area itself. My reduction was covered by my insurance company since it was done for health reasons rather than cosmetic so the outcome causes me concern. Although the front of my breasts are noticeably smaller and are round for the most part, there does not appear to have been any lipo and there are rather squarish protrusions where my breasts previously began. Because of this shape, many bras don't fit properly and I am much more self-concious than I was before when they were too large and in the beginning stages of drooping. I am a bit overweight but was told it wasn't enough to warrant any weight loss pre-surgery so i'm concerned that they will be square even if I do lose weight. Is there anything that can be done now and if so, what procedure and what might it cost me? I am leery of returning to the doctor that did the reduction.

Answer 1:

It sounds like you could benefit from some additional liposuction. If you are not comfortable returning to the surgeon who did the first surgery, there are many excellent plastic surgeons all around. Good luck Josh Korman, M.D.

Answer 2:

Dear Cyndi, There are different ways of performing breast reduction surgery and those of us who do a lot of this type of surgery are very aware of the "boxy breast" problem which can result from the procedure being performed without this possible result in mind. It may be that liposuction alone will help the problem or that a revision of the outer portion of the reduction is required. I would suggest that you first revisit with the surgeon who performed the procedure and discuss these options with him/her. It may be that this was considered and that the breast may just need time to drop further to achieve a nice shape.

Gregory Caputy, MD, Chief Surgeon
Honolulu, HI

Question:

Is surgery safe to reduce fat in my upper arms? If so, how much could that cost?

Answer:

Dear Jenn, Upper arm liposuction, especially using ultrasonic-assisted liposuction is a wonderful procedure as long as your skin is in good condition to allow for a smooth and even contraction over the area after the fat is partially removed. If the skin is in large excess, a brachioplasty is a better procedure to undergo. This difference between the two is immense though in terms of recovery, risk and scarring. I would suggest that you visit with a plastic/cosmetic surgeon in your area to determine which procedure is best for you.

Gregory Caputy, MD, Chief Surgeon
Honolulu, HI

Question:

I had liposuction of my abdomen and thighs and buttocks in March of 1999. My tummy has stayed relatively flat, but my buttocks and thighs seem to be getting bigger again. I still weigh the exact weight. Is this typical and can I correct it with diet at this time. I am 48 years old, exercise 3-5 times a week. Would it help to wear the post surgical garments again?

Answer:

Wearing the garment at this time would be a waste of effort. Since your weight is remaining constant and you excersise quite regularly additional liposuction may be th only solution.

David Ross, MD
Chicago, IL

Question:

I have type 2 diabetes and would like to have liposuction to get rid of my gut and love handles. Would the fat loss also help my diabetes?

Answer:

Probably not. Good luck. Carmen Paradis M.D.

Question:

My arms are large for my size. I am 5'2" and around 115 lbs. Is there anything can be done. I am 52 yrs. old.

Answer:

Liposuction may be of some help. You need to have a consultation with a Plastic Surgeon to determine if your skin will shrink sufficiently after the liposuction to make it worthwhile. An alternative procedure would be a brachioplasty (direct excision of the excess skin and fat), but it will leave a scar on the inner-back-side of the upper arm from the armpit to the elbow.

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