Arm Lift Surgery (Brachioplasty)

Informed Consent Document

Digital Version 1.0 | March 2026

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Introduction

How the surgery is performed

Brachioplasty removes excess skin and fatty tissue from the upper arm and axilla (extended armlift). An incision is made along the inner arm, from the armpit towards the elbow. The excess skin and fat are removed, the underlying tissues tightened, and the incision closed. Liposuction may be performed at the same time to improve contour.

What to expect after the procedure

Bruising and swelling are normal and will gradually settle over several weeks. You will need to wear a compression garment as advised by your Consultant. The scars will initially be red and firm, fading over 12 to 18 months.

Anaesthesia

The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia.

Why is arm lift surgery performed?

Brachioplasty is performed to improve the appearance and contour of the upper arms by removing excess skin and fat. It is commonly sought by patients who have experienced significant weight loss or age-related skin laxity, where diet and exercise alone cannot address the excess tissue.

Who is a suitable candidate?

The best candidates are those at a stable weight with realistic expectations. Patients who intend to lose further weight should postpone surgery until their weight has plateaued for at least six months. Brachioplasty is not a treatment for obesity.

Risks and complications

As with all surgery, the decision to proceed should be based on a careful assessment of the benefits against the risks. Most patients do not experience significant complications, but it is essential to discuss all potential risks and outcomes with your Consultant before proceeding.

Alternative Treatments

Arm lift surgery is an elective surgical operation. Alternative surgery include:

Liposuction surgery, if there is good skin tone and localised fatty deposits
Diet and exercise to reduce overall excess body fat
Not undergoing surgery

Risks and potential complications are associated with alternative surgery.

Risks of Brachioplasty Surgery

1. Bleeding – It is possible, though unusual, to experience bleeding during or after surgery. If postoperative bleeding occurs, it may require emergency treatment to drain accumulated blood (haematoma). Blood transfusion is rarely required. Increased activity too soon after surgery can increase the risk of bleeding. It is important to follow all postoperative instructions and avoid strenuous activity for the advised period. I have stopped taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory medications, and any herbal or dietary supplements that may increase the risk of bleeding, as advised by my Consultant.

2. Infection – Infection is unusual after surgery. Should an infection occur, additional treatment including antibiotics, hospitalisation, or additional surgery may be necessary.

3. Change in Sensation – It is common to experience diminished (or loss) of skin sensation in areas that have had surgery. Diminished or complete loss of skin sensation may not totally resolve after brachioplasty.

4. Skin Contour Irregularities – Contour irregularities and depressions may occur. Visible and palpable wrinkling of skin can occur. Residual skin irregularities at the ends of the incision or "dog ears" are always a possibility. This may improve with time, or it can be surgically corrected.

5. Skin Discoloration/Swelling – Bruising and swelling normally occur following brachioplasty. The skin in or near the surgical site can appear either lighter or darker than surrounding skin. Although uncommon, swelling and skin discolouration may persist for long periods of time and, in rare situations, may be permanent.

6. Skin Sensitivity – Itching, tenderness, or exaggerated responses to hot or cold temperatures may occur after surgery. Usually this resolves during healing, but in rare situations it may be chronic.

7. Sensation of Arm Tightness – After lifting the arm skin, there can be a sensation of the arm skin being tight. Usually this feeling subsides over time.

8. Sutures – Most surgical techniques use deep sutures. You may notice these sutures after your surgery. Sutures may spontaneously poke through the skin, become visible or produce irritation that requires removal.

9. Fat Necrosis – Fatty tissue found deep in the skin might die. This may produce areas of firmness within the skin. Additional surgery to remove areas of fat necrosis may be necessary.

10. Damage to Deeper Structures – There is the potential for injury to deeper structures including nerves, blood vessels, muscles, and lungs (pneumothorax) during any surgical procedure. Injury to deeper structures may be temporary or permanent.

11. Scarring – All surgery results in scars. Although good wound healing is expected, scars may be wider, thicker, or more prominent than anticipated. Scar colour and texture may differ from surrounding skin, and scars may appear different on each side of the body. Hypertrophic or keloid scarring may occur, particularly in patients of Asian or Afro-Caribbean descent. Visible suture marks are possible. In some cases, further treatment such as steroid injections, silicone products, or surgical scar revision may be required.

12. Asymmetry – The human body is naturally asymmetric. There can be a variation from one side to the other in the results obtained from brachioplasty.

13. Long Term Effects – Subsequent alterations in body contour may occur as the result of ageing, weight loss or gain, pregnancy, or other circumstances not related to brachioplasty.

14. Allergic Reactions – In rare cases, local allergies to tape, suture material, or topical preparations have been reported. Systemic reactions which are more serious may occur to drugs used during surgery and prescription medicines. Allergic reactions may require additional treatment.

15. Skin Loss (Necrosis) – Skin loss may occur from any surgery but is most common where skin has been thin, damaged, or has a poor blood supply. Skin loss may require additional wound care or surgery.

16. Seroma – Fluid accumulations infrequently occur between the skin and the underlying tissues. Should this problem occur, it might require additional procedures for drainage of the fluid.

17. Shock – In rare circumstances, your surgical procedure can cause severe trauma. Although serious complications are infrequent, infections or excessive fluid loss can lead to severe illness and even death.

18. Surgical Wetting Solutions – There is the possibility that large volumes of fluid containing dilute local anaesthetic drugs and Epinephrine that is injected into fatty deposits during surgery may contribute to fluid overload or systemic reaction to these medications.

19. Pain – Some degree of pain and discomfort is expected after surgery, which is usually well controlled with prescribed painkillers. In rare cases, chronic pain may develop due to nerves becoming trapped in scar tissue or tissue stretching. Small nerve endings may become overactive during healing, producing areas of tenderness or heightened sensitivity, which typically resolves with massage and time. If pain persists, I will inform my Consultant.

20. Unsatisfactory Result – Although good results are expected, there is no guarantee or warranty expressed or implied, on the results that may be obtained. You may be disappointed with the results of brachioplasty surgery. Additional surgery may be required to improve results.

21. Delayed Healing – Wound disruption or delayed wound healing is possible. Some areas of the arm may not heal normally and may take a long time to heal. Some areas of skin may die. This may require frequent dressing changes or further surgery to remove the non-healed tissue. Smokers have a greater risk of skin loss and wound healing complications.

22. Long Term Results – Subsequent alterations in the appearance of your body may occur as the result of aging, sun exposure, weight loss or gain, pregnancy, menopause, or other circumstances not related to your surgery.

23. Metabolic Status of Massive Weight Loss Patients – Your personal metabolic status of blood chemistry and protein levels may be abnormal following massive weight loss and surgical procedures to make a patient lose weight. Individuals with abnormalities may be a risk for serious medical and surgical complications, including delayed wound healing, infection or even in rare cases, death.

Patients That Have Undergone Bariatric Surgery

I have informed my Consultant if I have undergone any form of bariatric surgery (such as gastric band, gastric bypass, or gastric sleeve). I understand that patients who have undergone bariatric surgery are at increased risk of surgical complications, including impaired wound healing, nutritional deficiencies (particularly in protein, iron, vitamin B12, folate, calcium, and vitamin D), and increased susceptibility to infection. I understand that these deficiencies can persist for years after bariatric surgery, even with supplementation.

I understand that it is recommended that my weight has been stable for a minimum of 6 to 12 months before undergoing elective surgery.

I understand that pre-operative blood tests may be required to assess my nutritional status and fitness for surgery.

Mental Health and Elective Surgery

I understand that all elective surgery carries inherent uncertainty and that results are influenced by individual biological factors beyond the Consultant's control. No guarantee of a specific outcome has been made or implied.

I am proceeding with realistic expectations focused on improvement rather than perfection. I understand that dissatisfaction with an outcome does not in itself indicate negligent or substandard care.

I have disclosed to my Consultant any current or past history of anxiety, depression, body dysmorphic disorder, or any other mental health condition. I accept that my psychological response to surgery, including any impact on my emotional wellbeing or ability to work, cannot be predicted regardless of the surgical outcome, and that surgery may temporarily or permanently exacerbate pre-existing psychological concerns.

I take personal responsibility for my emotional and psychological preparedness for surgery and its outcomes. I have been advised to seek independent counselling support before proceeding if I have any concerns about my ability to cope with a result that falls short of my expectations.

Cooling-Off Period

In accordance with GMC guidelines, Kinvara Private Hospital requires a minimum two-week cooling off period between your initial consultation and any cosmetic surgery procedure. By signing this consent form, you confirm that this cooling off period has been observed, or where it has not been possible, that you have chosen to proceed with your full understanding and acceptance.

Smoking or Vaping

I confirm that I have truthfully disclosed my smoking and nicotine use status to my Consultant. I understand that smoking and the use of nicotine products significantly impairs wound healing and increases the risk of surgical complications. I have been advised to refrain from smoking and all nicotine products for a minimum of six weeks before surgery and until my Consultant confirms it is safe to resume.

I understand that a urine or blood test may be carried out immediately before surgery to confirm the absence of nicotine, and that if nicotine is detected, my procedure may be postponed at the discretion of my Consultant.

Anaesthetic Risks

I understand that all forms of anaesthesia and sedation carry risks, including the possibility of complications, injury, heart attack, stroke, and in rare cases, death.

I understand that surgery carries a risk of blood clots, including Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) and Pulmonary Embolism (PE), and that preventative measures may include early mobilisation, compression devices, and anticoagulation therapy. Thrombosed veins may also develop around intravenous (IV) sites, which usually resolve without treatment. I have informed my Consultant of any relevant history, including blood clots, cancer, varicose veins, heart or lung conditions, recurrent miscarriage, obesity, recent long-haul travel, prolonged immobility, family history of clotting disorders, personal history of thrombophilia, or use of the oral contraceptive pill or hormone therapy. I have been advised by my Consultant whether to temporarily stop taking oral contraceptive pills, hormone replacement therapy, or any other oestrogen-containing medication before surgery, and I have followed this advice.

I understand that pulmonary complications such as chest infection, partial lung collapse, or fat embolism may occur, and that these risks are higher in smokers and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions. I understand that cardiac complications are a risk with any surgery and anaesthesia, even in patients without symptoms. If I experience shortness of breath, chest pains, or unusual heartbeats after surgery, I will seek immediate medical attention.

I understand that allergic reactions or adverse responses to anaesthetic agents, medications, or surgical materials may occur, ranging from mild skin irritation to severe anaphylaxis. I have provided my Consultant with a full list of all medications, supplements, and any known drug allergies.

I understand that where repositioning is required during surgery, there is a small risk of nerve injury or pressure-related skin damage.

I have informed my Consultant if I have been diagnosed with, or have symptoms suggestive of, obstructive sleep apnoea, including heavy snoring, witnessed breathing pauses during sleep, daytime drowsiness, or use of a CPAP machine. I understand that sleep apnoea increases the risks associated with general anaesthesia and that narcotic pain medications used after surgery may further compromise breathing during sleep.

I understand that ileus (temporary disruption of normal bowel function) may occur after surgery, particularly following general anaesthesia and the use of pain medications. Symptoms may include abdominal distention, nausea, and vomiting. In rare cases, aspiration of stomach contents into the lungs may occur, which can lead to pneumonia.

Patient Compliance

I understand that I must follow all Consultant instructions carefully, as this is essential for the success of my outcome. I understand that surgical incisions must not be subjected to excessive force, swelling, abrasion, or motion during the time of healing, and that personal and vocational activity needs to be restricted. I will not remove protective dressings or drains unless instructed by my Consultant.

I understand that successful postoperative function depends on both surgery and subsequent care, and that physical activity that increases my pulse or heart rate may cause bruising, swelling, fluid accumulation and the need for return to surgery. I understand that I must not drive a vehicle until advised by my Consultant that it is safe to do so, and that I must not drive while taking prescription pain medication. I have been advised to check with my car insurance provider regarding any restrictions on driving following surgery. I understand that I must attend all scheduled post-operative appointments as advised by my Consultant, and that failure to attend may compromise my outcome.

Financial Responsibilities

I understand that the cost of my procedure includes the fees for the surgery stated in my quote. I acknowledge that this quote does not cover any potential future costs for additional procedures that I may elect to have, or that may be required in order to revise, optimise, or complete my outcome.

I understand that should complications arise, additional costs may be incurred, and that any secondary surgery, further hospital admissions, or revision procedures will be charged separately and will be my financial responsibility.

I understand that complications arising from elective cosmetic surgery are generally not covered by private health insurance or the NHS, and that any treatment required for such complications will be my financial responsibility. I confirm that I have received and understood my quote prior to signing this consent form, and I accept responsibility for all associated costs, including any future treatments that may become necessary.

Consent for Arm Lift Surgery (Brachioplasty)

I hereby authorise my Consultant and such assistants to perform Arm Lift Surgery (Brachioplasty).

I recognise that during the course of the operation and medical treatment or anaesthesia, unforeseen conditions may necessitate different procedures than those above. I therefore authorise the Consultant and assistants to perform such other procedures that are in the exercise of his or her professional judgment necessary and desirable.
I consent to the administration of such anaesthetics considered necessary or advisable. I understand that all forms of anaesthesia involve risk and the possibility of complications, injury, and sometimes death.
I acknowledge that no guarantee or representation has been given by anyone as to the results that may be obtained.
I understand that it may not be possible to achieve optimal results from a single procedure, and that further surgical sessions may be needed to produce the desired final result. Any additional procedures will incur further costs.
I accept that the practice of medicine and surgery is not an exact science, and that while good results are expected, individual results may vary depending on factors such as my general health, healing capacity, and compliance with post-operative instructions.
I consent to be photographed or video recorded before, during, and after the operation(s) for medical, scientific, or educational purposes, provided my identity is not revealed.
I consent to the disposal of any tissue, medical devices or body parts which may be removed.
I understand that my Consultant is an independent medical practitioner and not an employee of Kinvara Private Hospital. My clinical agreement is directly with my Consultant, who is solely responsible for my surgical care and clinical decisions. Kinvara Private Hospital provides the facilities, nursing care, and administrative support.
I realise that not having the operation is an option.

It has been explained to me in a way that I understand:

The above surgery to be undertaken.
There may be alternative surgery.
There are risks to the surgery proposed.
I can confirm that I have read, understood, and have taken time to consider all the identified risks as described above. I have also had the opportunity to discuss any additional concerns and questions with my Consultant, and my Consultant has addressed my concerns to my satisfaction. Therefore I have decided to proceed with surgery with the full knowledge of the intended risk and benefits involved. I certify that I have fully informed my Consultant correctly and to the best of my knowledge my full medical history status.

Patient Signature *

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Patient Name

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Date

8 July 2026

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