What Is The Scar Look Like After Elbow Lifts?

Q: Dr. Eppley, I am a board certified plastic surgeon. I recently had a patient requesting an skin excision from her elbow. (elbow lift) I had never heard of that procedure and did not even realize one existed. I saw that you have indeed done this procedure. I was wondering if you have any pics of the scars many months out? I would be so grateful if you could share any advice on this procedure.

A: Like all tissue excisional/tightenng body procedures, and elbow lifts are no exception, it is all about whether the scar is a worthy tradeoff. Forget about whether the scar is good looking as that is the hope but there is no guarantee across a moveable joint. Paint the picture of an adverse scar that will require revision (I have only done one such revision in more than 20 elbow lifts….but that is not the point) and then see if they want to do the procedure. The best candidate for any aesthetic procedure where the scar is unpredictable is when they tell you quickly and upfront after the scar discussion that they would rather have a scar than loose skin. Any wavering about the scar disqualifies them from the surgery.

Dr. Barry Eppley

Indianapolis, Indiana