Here is a brief summary of the operation. More details can be obtained from your own surgeon, or the ASPS.
Indications: This operation is done to tighten the loose skin of the upper arm, smetimes called a bat wing deformity. It does not change the texture of the skin but by stretching it, the crepiness is made less noticeable. Sometimes the skin of the hand is also tightened or resurfaced. In selected cases ultrasonic liposuction alone may be adequate because it removes excess fat and may cause slight tightening
Method: The method of surgery is not complicated, the excess skin is marked and then removed. In some patients the fascia or deep layer is held in place with special stitches attached to the fascia of the arm pit or axilla. The incision is placed on the inner and under surface of the arm and often curves or zigzags. It may also curve around the upper part of the arm. Sometimes fat is suctioned at the same time. The operation is done under either local anesthetic (you are awake) or general anesthetic (you are asleep). You can choose but most patients are happier asleep. Most of the time this is an outpatient operation and a stay in the hospital is not needed.
Problems: All operations have some risk. The risks of surgery are divided into two groups. First those that are seen in all operations and second those that are unique or special for this operation. In the first group, the main risks are swelling, bruising, bleeding, infection, thick scar and numbness, or change in feeling. The biggest problem for this operation is the long and sometimes heavy scar.
Postoperative care: The recovery takes one to two weeks. Most people are back to work within a week or two.
For more information check with your doctor. Remember that there are many different ways to do this operation and your best advice comes from your own plastic surgeon.