An Arm Lift, also known as Brachioplasty, is a surgical procedure used to remove excess skin and fat, tightening the underlying supportive tissue for toned, proportionate arms.
Ideal after massive weight loss or age-related laxity. Upper arms that have a sagging loose appearance may be caused by age, heredity, and wide fluctuations in weight.
An Arm Lift may be an option for you if exercise and dieting have not been successful in removing excess fat in the arms.
Am I a Candidate For an Arm Lift?
Anybody with excess fat and skin in their upper arms may be a candidate for Brachioplasty. You may also be a candidate if your body weight is stable and are not significantly overweight.
Suitable candidates should not have medical conditions that would increase the risk of surgery.
As with all cosmetic surgery, you should have realistic expectations and should not be doing it for anyone except yourself.
Arm Lift Procedure
An Arm Lift is usually done under a general anesthesia, and is administered before surgery so that you are comfortable during the procedure.
Incisions for an Arm Lift are usually done on the inside or back of the arm, and may extend from the underarm to the elbow. The length of the incision depends on the location of the excess skin that needs to be removed. Excess fat may be removed with liposuction if needed.
The remaining skin is pulled together and stitched up using either absorbable sutures or stitches that are removed a couple of weeks after the surgery.
There may be bruising and swelling in the area immediately after surgery but this will improve as the area heals.
Recovery After Arm Lift Surgery
Dressings may be applied to your incisions and an elastic bandage may be wrapped around your arms to encourage your skin to heal properly around the affected area.
Medication may be prescribed to help with the healing process and you will be given instructions on how to care for the surgical site.
If you have any questions about the recovery period, be sure to ask your plastic surgeon.
Arm Lift Results
The results of an Arm Lift are immediately apparent following the procedure. Your upper arms will have tighter and smoother contours. Although permanent, it is natural to lose some firmness as your body ages.
Scars will improve in appearance over time and as long as you maintain a stable body weight, the results of an arm lift will be long lasting.
As with most cosmetic surgery, it may not always be possible to achieve optimal results with one procedure.
Arm Lift Surgery Risks and Complications
You will need to weigh the risks and benefits of an Arm Lift and this is a personal decision. To make sure you understand the risks involving the surgery, you will be asked to sign consent forms.
Examples of the risks involving an Arm Lift include:
- Infection
- Scarring
- Skin loss and discoloration
- Pain which may persist
- Accumulation of fluid
- Numbness
If you have any questions regarding the surgery, you should address them with your surgeon.
Cost of an Arm Lift Procedure
Prices for an Arm Lift will vary as the cost of the procedure may be based on the surgeon’s experience.
Financing may be offered if the procedure is not covered by your health insurance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What Is an Arm Lift (Brachioplasty)?
An arm lift, also known as brachioplasty, is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to remove excess skin and fat from the upper arms. The goal is to create a firmer, smoother, and more proportionate arm contour. It is commonly performed for individuals who have experienced significant weight loss or age-related skin laxity.
2. Who Is a Good Candidate for Arm Lift Surgery?
Good candidates for brachioplasty are generally healthy adults who have loose, sagging skin on the upper arms that does not improve with diet or exercise. Candidates should have realistic expectations, be non-smokers or willing to stop smoking, and maintain a stable body weight before surgery.
3. What Happens During an Arm Lift Procedure?
During an arm lift procedure, excess skin and fat are removed from the upper arm. Depending on the patient’s needs, liposuction may also be performed to improve contouring. The remaining skin is tightened and reshaped to create a smoother, firmer appearance. The procedure is typically performed under anesthesia.
4. How Long Does Arm Lift Surgery Take?
The length of an arm lift procedure varies depending on the extent of correction required. In most cases, surgery takes between two and three hours. Additional procedures performed at the same time may increase the overall surgical time. Your surgeon can provide a more personalized estimate during consultation.
5. Will I Have Scars After Brachioplasty?
Yes, brachioplasty involves incisions, which result in permanent scars. The location and length of the scar depend on the amount of excess skin being removed. While scars typically fade over time, they do not disappear completely. Surgeons place incisions strategically to make scars as discreet as possible.
6. What Is Recovery Like After an Arm Lift?
Recovery varies from patient to patient, but most individuals can return to light daily activities within one to two weeks. Swelling, bruising, and temporary discomfort are common during the healing process. Patients are usually advised to avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for several weeks after surgery.
7. Can Liposuction Be Combined With an Arm Lift?
Yes, liposuction is frequently combined with brachioplasty to address excess fat and enhance arm contouring. While an arm lift focuses on removing loose skin and tightening tissues, liposuction helps reduce stubborn fat deposits. Combining both procedures can often provide more comprehensive and aesthetically pleasing results.
8. How Long Do Arm Lift Results Last?
Arm lift results are generally long-lasting, especially when patients maintain a stable weight and healthy lifestyle. While the natural aging process continues, the excess skin removed during surgery does not return. Significant weight fluctuations may affect the appearance of the arms and alter long-term results.
9. Are There Risks Associated With Arm Lift Surgery?
Like any surgical procedure, brachioplasty carries potential risks, including bleeding, infection, scarring, swelling, and delayed healing. Temporary numbness or changes in sensation may also occur. Choosing a qualified plastic surgeon and carefully following post-operative instructions can help minimize the likelihood of complications.
10. When Will I See My Final Arm Lift Results?
Patients often notice an improvement in arm contour immediately after surgery, although swelling can temporarily obscure the final outcome. As healing progresses and swelling subsides, results become more visible. Most patients can appreciate their final arm lift results within several months following the procedure.
