'J' brachioplasty technique in massive weight loss patients

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Body Contouring Surgery

Background:

• Massive weight loss often results in significant upper extremity skin laxity (brachial ptosis).
• Traditional brachioplasty techniques vary in skin excision patterns and adjunctive methods, with ongoing efforts to improve aesthetic outcomes and safety.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe and evaluate a novel surgical technique, the "J" Brachioplasty, for upper extremity body reshaping in massive weight loss patients.
• To assess the efficacy and safety of the "J" Brachioplasty in managing brachial ptosis and associated thoracic skin excess.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective study was conducted on 73 massive weight loss patients diagnosed with brachial ptosis who underwent the "J" Brachioplasty between March 2013 and March 2016.
• The study documented the standard surgical procedure, recorded the extent of axillary and thoracic skin excess, and monitored postoperative complications.

Main Results:

• The "J" Brachioplasty technique successfully treated both arm and thoracic skin excess using a single incision.
• Low complication rates were observed: two cases of postoperative bleeding, four instances of partial wound dehiscence due to tension, and one case of seroma.

Conclusions:

• The "J" Brachioplasty is an effective and safe surgical option for body reshaping in massive weight loss patients with brachial ptosis.
• This technique offers a streamlined approach to address upper extremity and adjacent thoracic skin excess, achieving good aesthetic results.