Radiofrequency-assisted Liposuction for Arm Contouring: Technique under Local Anesthesia

Background:
Contouring of the arms that does not involve skin excision remains a difficult challenge due to the dependent nature and quality of the skin. Although brachioplasty remains effective, it requires lengthy incision. Radiofrequency-assisted liposuction (RFAL) may improve skin retraction with a satisfactory aesthetic result without skin resection and the resultant scar. The purpose of this study is to present our experience of RFAL arm contouring under local anesthesia, detailing safety guidelines, the marking technique, operative technique, complications, third party surgeon appraisal, and patient satisfaction survey

Methods:
Forty patients underwent RFAL under local tumescent anesthesia for aesthetic arm contouring. Postoperative patient satisfaction surveys were conducted and independent third-party surgeons were surveyed to assess improvements in contour and skin quality with preoperative and postoperative photographs

Conclusion:
In appropriately selected patients, RFAL arm contouring under local anesthesia represents and alternative procedure with acceptably low morbidity and high patient satisfaction. To achieve consistent results while minimizing complication, consideration to anatomic details, infiltration of the local anesthetic, and application of the radiofrequency energy must be given.