Brachioplasty — Arm Contouring, Fascial Anatomy, Nerve Protection, and Surgical Safety

This episode reviews the core principles of brachioplasty and upper arm contouring, focusing on fascial anatomy, patient selection, surgical planning, nerve protection, and complication prevention.Topics include the superficial fascial system, longitudinal fascial system, deep investing fascia, medial brachial and medial antebrachial cutaneous nerves, the basilic vein, ulnar nerve safety, lymphatic preservation, Pittsburgh and Appelt classifications, vector-based excision planning, and the role of liposuction in creating a safer honeycomb dissection plane. The episode also covers UAL and RFAL, the ulnar danger zone, avulsion brachioplasty, standing markings, the victory position, medial versus posterior versus posteromedial scar placement, mini-brachioplasty, Lockwood fascial suspension, standard and extended brachioplasty, pinch testing, segmental excision, dehiscence, seroma, MABC neuroma management, DVT/PE prevention, and lymphedema risk reduction. Part of Dr. Lara’s Plastic Surgery Compendium — a high-yield audio reference for plastic surgery trainees and surgeons.DisclaimerThis podcast is intended for educational purposes only and is designed for medical students, residents, fellows, and practicing healthcare professionals. It is not intended to provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment for any individual patient. The content presented reflects general surgical principles and should not be used as a substitute for formal medical training, clinical judgment, or consultation with qualified healthcare professionals. Listening to this podcast does not establish a physician–patient relationship.SEO / Topic Keywordsbrachioplasty, arm lift, upper arm contouring, body contouring, massive weight loss, superficial fascial system, longitudinal fascial system, deep investing fascia, medial brachial cutaneous nerve, medial antebrachial cutaneous nerve, MABC nerve, basilic vein, ulnar nerve, cubital tunnel, lymphatic preservation, arm lymphedema, Pittsburgh Rating Scale, Appelt classification, Teimourian classification, brachioplasty markings, victory position, medial brachioplasty scar, posterior brachioplasty scar, posteromedial scar, mini-brachioplasty, Lockwood technique, fascial suspension, standard brachioplasty, extended brachioplasty, L-brachioplasty, liposuction-assisted brachioplasty, honeycomb dissection, avulsion brachioplasty, UAL brachioplasty, RFAL arm contouring, segmental excision, skin dehiscence, T-junction dehiscence, seroma, MABC neuroma, DVT prevention, heparin prophylaxis