In January, Gill Bates self-paid for private arm lift surgery (brachioplasty) under the care of our Consultant Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeon, Mr Simon P Mackey, after struggling with loose skin on her arms for years.
How was the loose skin on your arms impacting your everyday life?
“I’ve had loose skin on my arms since my late teens. It impacted me in many ways, even down to the way I dressed. I had to wear bigger, baggier clothes because my arms wouldn’t fit into smaller clothes. I had no confidence in showing my arms, so I never wore short sleeves or vest tops.”
Gill’s arm lift surgery success
How and why did you choose Benenden Hospital for your treatment?
Research
“I’d had two consultations at another hospital, with different Consultants. However, I decided not to choose either of the Consultants, as it’s such a personal choice, so chose to delay my treatment and look elsewhere.
“I’d previously had surgery at Benenden Hospital through my Benenden Health membership and I was happy with the care I received. I researched private cosmetic surgery further and discovered that Benenden Hospital offered arm lift surgery.”
Consultant
“I wanted to make sure that the place I chose for my surgery was a safe, clean environment and that I was happy with my Consultant. I chose Mr Simon Mackey to be my Consultant Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeon at Benenden Hospital. He has over 15 years of experience, and supported me throughout my patient journey with both my physical and mental wellbeing.
“As well as the Consultant, I was also supported by Clinical Nurse Specialist in Plastics and Cosmetic Surgery, Kate Comrie. She was very kind and super easy to talk to about any concerns I had.”
Initial consultation
“I had two initial consultations prior to my arm lift surgery to verify what I was having done, going through the risks and the outcomes - they prepare you. They really go in-depth about the recovery process, so I knew how much time to take off work – an essential part for me to understand.”
What was your experience of the environment?
“Benenden Hospital is situated in stunning, beautiful countryside. The hospital itself is clean, spacious and it makes you feel very comfortable and welcomed. We love the area surrounding the hospital so much that we’re thinking of moving down there from our home in Sidcup!”
What were your worries prior to surgery and how were they eased?
“My main worry was having a cannula put into my hand. Before my surgery, I was taken into a private room where I met with the anaesthetist – he was such a wonderful reassurance for me. He listened to my worries, gave me a little bit of gas, and then put the cannula into my foot instead as this is what is required for an arm lift procedure. He helped me immensely! I felt prepared for the surgery.
“I was also concerned how independent I’d be post-surgery. I wanted to know if I could go to the toilet on my own or make a cup of tea. Although my husband was at home with me the day after my procedure, he had to return to work after this. I did manage to go to the toilet on my own in the evening of the day of my surgery and the next day I made a drink, but you just have to be careful of lifting kettles! The independence I had after surgery was a lot better than I thought it would be.”
What happened post-surgery?
“I had excellent nurses who looked after me while I was recovering in my ensuite ward room. They were friendly and made me feel very comfortable during my stay, ensuring that my blood pressure was stable, that I wasn’t in pain and answering any questions I had. They were so friendly and made me feel very comfortable throughout the whole process.
“I only needed to stay one night and was discharged the following morning. I believe if you have the surgery in the morning, you can be discharged the same day, but this depends on how comfortable you’ll be.
“I was given medication and bandages post-surgery. I ordered compression garments, recommended by Kate and Simon online prior to my surgery. I started wearing these straight away. They keep the shape of your arm nice and tight to reduce the risk of knocks and jolts as you go about your day while recovering. I had several follow-up appointments to check-in with the healing process.”
What improvements has your arm lift made to your life?
“If you’re considering having arm lift surgery, I would say do it sooner rather than later. I’m 62 now and I wish I’d done it years ago. The recovery was not as bad as I thought it would be. I had a couple of weeks of minimal activity with painkillers, but after that, the pain was reduced. Over six months post-surgery, I’ve regained complete movement in my arms and now wear short-sleeved tops! It has made a significant difference to my life, as I’d never had the level of confidence that this arm lift has given me.
“I would highly recommend Benenden Hospital for your cosmetic surgery. I felt really safe, the aftercare was excellent, and my results are exceptional.”
Arm lift surgery at Benenden Hospital
You can book your initial cosmetic surgery consultation through our online booking tool. To find out more about private arm lift surgery and our other cosmetics procedures, please complete our online enquiry form, contact us via Livechat or call our Private Patient team on 01580 363158.
Published on 19 July 2024