How to Prepare for Brachioplasty
How to Prepare for Brachioplasty
An arm lift is a straightforward procedure, but the results depend on how well you prepare beforehand. We've set out all the practical steps and medical requirements to help you get ready for surgery at Eterno 360 in London.
Medical Assessment and Consultation
Your surgeon will want to understand your full medical history before booking your procedure. This isn't just a formality. It's about making sure surgery is safe for you and identifying anything that might affect healing.
When you come for your consultation, bring a list of any medications you're taking, including supplements. You'll be asked about previous operations, any blood clotting problems, and whether you smoke. Be honest about everything. Your surgeon needs the complete picture to plan your brachioplasty properly and avoid complications.
If you have any underlying health conditions, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, make sure your GP is aware you're planning cosmetic surgery. Some conditions mean you'll need extra monitoring or adjustments to your medications before the procedure.
This quiz is for general guidance only and is not a clinical assessment. A consultation with a qualified surgeon is the only way to determine suitability.
Medications and Supplements to Avoid
A few weeks before surgery, you'll need to adjust what you're taking. Your surgeon will give you specific guidance, but there are some common ones worth knowing about.
Aspirin and other blood-thinning medications can increase bleeding during and after surgery. You may need to stop these temporarily, though never do so without talking to your doctor first. Some supplements do the same thing: fish oil, vitamin E, ginkgo biloba, and garlic supplements all affect how your blood clots.
Avoid any herbal remedies or over-the-counter pain relief that you're not certain about. If you're on prescription medications, your GP and surgeon should work together on what to pause and what to keep taking. Stopping something important could be risky, so this conversation matters.
The medications you take now affect how your body heals after surgery. Giving your surgeon a complete list and following their guidance reduces complications and improves your result.
Lifestyle Adjustments Before Surgery
Smoking and Nicotine
If you smoke, now is the time to stop. Nicotine reduces blood flow to your skin, which slows healing and increases the risk of complications. Ideally, you'll quit entirely, but at minimum, avoid smoking for several weeks before and after your procedure. This includes vaping and nicotine patches.
Alcohol
Alcohol thins your blood and can interfere with anaesthetics. Most surgeons recommend you stop drinking at least one week before surgery. In the recovery period, alcohol doesn't mix well with pain medication either, so it's sensible to avoid it then too.
Physical Activity
You don't need to stop exercising before surgery, but you should avoid anything strenuous in the final week. Heavy lifting, intense cardio, and upper body work all increase blood pressure and swelling. Light walking is fine and actually helps you stay in good general health for the procedure.
Skin Care
If you use retinoids (like tretinoin or adapalene), your surgeon may ask you to pause these for a week or two before surgery, as they can affect healing. Continue gentle cleansing and moisturising. Avoid any new treatments or products in the weeks leading up to your procedure.
Quit smoking if possible. Discuss medications with your GP. Start thinking about time off work and arranging support at home.
Complete any blood tests or assessments your surgeon requests. Continue avoiding blood-thinning supplements. Finalise your pre-op checklist.
Stop aspirin and blood-thinning medications (as advised). Avoid intense exercise. No new skincare or treatments. Arrange transport home after surgery.
Follow your surgeon's fasting instructions carefully. Lay out comfortable, loose clothing. Confirm your arrival time and bring your ID and insurance documents.
Typical timeline shown. Individual recovery varies and your surgeon will give you personalised guidance.
Practical Preparation at Home
Arm lift recovery means you won't be able to lift heavy objects or do much with your arms for a while. Planning ahead makes the first few weeks much easier.
Arrange time off work. You'll typically need at least 1 week off if your job is office-based, longer if it's physically demanding. Talk to your employer or manager now.
Stock your kitchen with easy food. Cook some meals in advance and freeze them. Fresh fruit, ready-made salads, and protein you don't need to prepare are your friends. You won't want to stand at the cooker or carry heavy pans.
Prepare your bedroom and living area. Set up the room where you'll spend most time so everything you need is within arm's reach. That means water, books, your phone charger, remote controls, and any entertainment. Keep the space cool and dust-free.
Arrange for someone to drive you home after your procedure and ideally to stay with you for the first night or two. You won't be able to drive after anaesthesia, and having someone to help with daily tasks makes an enormous difference.
Button-up shirts and loose tops that won't rub against your incisions. Avoid anything tight around the underarms.
Have extra pillows ready. You'll sleep semi-upright for the first week or two to reduce swelling.
Your surgeon will tell you what dressings and creams you need. Buy these in advance so you're not rushing to the chemist.
Plan how you'll shower safely without getting your incisions wet. Your surgeon will give you specific guidance on timing and protection.
The Day of Your Surgery
Your surgeon will give you specific fasting instructions. Typically, you'll be asked not to eat or drink anything for several hours before your procedure. This is essential for your safety under anaesthesia.
Wear loose, comfortable clothing and avoid jewellery, makeup, and nail polish. Leave valuables at home. Bring photo ID, your insurance card, and any documents the clinic has asked for.
Arrive a bit early so you're not rushing. You'll meet the anaesthetist, who'll check you over and answer any last-minute questions. Be honest about any concerns. This is your chance to clarify anything you're unsure about.
How long will my brachioplasty take?
The procedure typically takes 2 to 3 hours, depending on the extent of the lift and whether both arms are being treated. Your surgeon will give you a more precise timeframe at your consultation.
What type of anaesthesia will I have?
Brachioplasty is usually performed under general anaesthesia, so you'll be asleep throughout. The anaesthetist will discuss this with you beforehand and answer any questions about your medical history.
Will I have visible scars after my arm lift?
Yes, there will be a scar on the inner or back of your arm where tissue is removed. Your surgeon places the incision to minimise visibility, and scars fade significantly over time. This is something to discuss in detail at your consultation.
How soon can I return to normal activities?
Most people can return to light activities after 1 week, but you'll need to avoid strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, and upper body strength work for 4 to 6 weeks. Your surgeon will give you a detailed activity timeline based on your individual healing.
Figures are typical ranges for the procedure and may vary by individual case.
Information in this article is for general guidance only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a GMC-registered surgeon for advice tailored to your circumstances.
Ready to take the next step?
Proper preparation gives you the best chance of a smooth procedure and excellent healing. Book a consultation with our team at Eterno 360 to discuss your arm lift and get personalised guidance tailored to your health and goals.
Book a consultation at Eterno 360