Brachioplasty is a very individualised procedure, and the outcome will be different for everyone. That is why before you make any decisions you will have a consultation with Dr Hunt to discuss your needs and goals for the surgery.

During your first consultation, Dr Hunt will evaluate your general health and explain the recommended surgical procedure including the risks and potential complications and your recovery time. Photographs will be taken for your medical record and to allow Dr Hunt to fully plan your surgery.

Dr Hunt's assistant will prepare a quote for you, which will include the surgical, anaesthetic, and hospital fees.

Brachioplasty is performed under a general anaesthetic, given by an anaesthetist, in an accredited hospital, so you are assured of the best care.

Before surgery begins Dr Hunt will have you stand and will mark the incision lines on your upper arms. The length of the incision may run from your underarm to your elbow. After the surgery you will have a scar on your upper arm.

Once the incision is made the skin is lifted from the arm. The underlying muscles are tightened and reshaped, to give your arm a new contour. Excess skin is trimmed, drains may be placed and the incision is sutured.

After surgery you will wear a compression garment.

You will stay in hospital for at least one night following surgery. Once you are comfortable and able to get to and from a bathroom you will go home.

You will not be able to drive yourself home after the surgery so be sure to arrange for someone to pick you up. When you go home you should limit your movements to around the house for 2 to 3 days.

When you are discharged you will be given a prescription for pain medication, which will minimise your discomfort. You should take only the pain medication prescribed, and eat before you take it or it might upset your stomach.

Eat lightly for 3 to 4 days after surgery and then resume you normal diet.

Make sure you get plenty of fluids.

You will return to see Dr Hunt several times over the few weeks following your surgery.

Dr Hunt will see you weekly for the first month and then will extend time between visits as you progress.

You should plan on taking at least 3 weeks off work.

For the first week after surgery your arm and shoulder movements may be limited. As the skin stretches and gets used to its new position you will slowly regain your range of movement.

You will be taught how to care for the drain sites and incisions before you leave hospital.

Once the drains are removed you may shower.

Compression garments must be worn continuously for 2 weeks, and then during the day for a further 2 weeks.

It will take at least 3 weeks before you fully recover.

The effect of brachioplasty is immediate, although the full benefits may take a few months to be fully appreciated. Once the compression garment is removed there may still be some residual swelling, but you will be able to see the new shape of your arms.

You will have a scar. The standard brachioplasty incision extends from the underarm to the elbow. This leaves a long scar that usually heals very well but is always present. A full-length incision is not always necessary. Dr Hunt will tell you how long the incision will be before surgery.