What is an arm lift or Brachioplasty?
An arm lift, also known as brachioplasty, is a cosmetic procedure that removes excess skin from the upper arms. This procedure is commonly used to improve the appearance of loose or sagging skin caused by weight loss or fluctuations, age-related changes in skin elasticity, and genetics. During an arm lift procedure, a board-certified plastic surgeon will make an incision from the armpit to the elbow along the back of the arm. The underlying supportive tissue and fat deposits will be reshaped and tightened, and internal sutures may be placed to support new contours. The remaining extra skin will then be removed, and the incision closed with sutures or surgical tape.
before and after results.
After surgery, a compression garment may be worn to help reduce swelling and promote healing. Recovery typically takes 3-4 weeks and results in smoother contours on the upper arm area.
- What is an arm lift or Brachioplasty?
- Who is a candidate for Arm Lift Surgery?
- Benefits of an Arm Lift Surgery
- What does the arm lift or brachioplasty procedure entail?
- What is the recovery (from an arm lift like)?
- What are the risks and complications (of an arm lift)?
- Frequently Asked Questions About Upper Arm Lift
Who is a candidate for Arm Lift Surgery?
An ideal candidate for arm lift surgery is someone with loose or sagging skin on the upper arms caused by weight fluctuations, age-related changes in skin elasticity, or genetics. Patients considering arm lift surgery should be healthy and free from any health issues that may complicate the healing process. During an initial consultation, a board-certified plastic surgeon will evaluate the patient’s aesthetic goals and determine if an arm lift is the best option for them. It’s important to note that bariatric surgery patients or those who have recently lost a significant amount of weight may benefit from this procedure to remove excess skin folds and pockets of fat in the upper arms area.
Patients must also be willing to abstain from strenuous activity during recovery time as it can interfere with healing. Arm lifts are a great cosmetic surgery option for patients who want smooth contours on their upper arms but may not be suitable for all individuals depending on their individual health needs and aesthetic goals.
Benefits
Benefits of an Arm Lift Surgery
An arm lift is an effective option for patients who are looking to improve the contour and appearance of their upper arms. It can help address medical conditions such as loose skin caused by dramatic weight gain or weight loss, age-related changes in the elasticity of the skin, or genetics. An arm lift is often considered an elective surgery, so it’s important to take into consideration your overall health when considering this procedure.
Some of these benefits are:
- Removing excess folds of tissue and fat in the upper arms
- Improving the firmness and tone of the arms
- Reducing sagging skin on the upper arms
- Creating a more sculpted arm contour
- Enhancing body proportions through improved aesthetics
A board-certified aesthetic surgeon will evaluate each patient’s individual needs and goals to determine if an arm lift is right for them. With good aftercare, many patients find that they have achieved their desired results with this effective procedure.
Explanation
What does the arm lift or brachioplasty procedure entail?
Brachioplasty, commonly referred to as an arm lift, is a surgical procedure designed to improve the appearance of the upper arms by eliminating excess skin and fat, resulting in a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing contour. Typically performed under general anesthesia, this procedure is frequently conducted on an outpatient basis, allowing patients to return home on the same day. Skilled and board-certified surgeons make incisions in strategic locations, such as the armpit or along the back of the arm, to access the targeted area. In certain cases, drain tubes may be inserted to facilitate the removal of any accumulated fluid during the recovery period. Following the removal of excess fat and skin, sutures are employed to close the incision, aiding in the restoration of the natural shape of the arm. Aftercare instructions are provided, which include wearing a compression garment for swelling of the arms and avoiding strenuous activity, which can influence recovery time.
The goal of an arm lift is to improve body proportions by creating a more fit-looking appearance by removing excess fatty tissue and loose skin from the arms. The average cost of this surgery can vary depending on where it’s performed but typically ranges between $3,000-$7,000 USD per arm lift session. Patients should discuss all costs with their surgeon before committing to surgery.
By following detailed aftercare instructions provided by experienced surgeons, many patients find they have achieved their desired results with this effective procedure.
Recovery
What is the recovery (from an arm lift like)?
An arm lift (or Brachioplasty) can take between 2 and 4 hours to perform, depending on the degree of skin redundancy. It is routinely done in an outpatient setting. However, when combined with other procedures, such as a tummy tuck, breast reduction, or thigh lift, then an overnight stay in an aftercare facility is highly recommended. Long-acting local anesthesia is used in combination with general anesthesia to limit pain substantially in the postoperative period. You should have a friend or relative assist you in the first 24 hours when you go home. Your initial dressings will include gauze and either an elastic bandage or a compression sleeve. Any external stitches or drains (if used) will be removed during the first visit. A compression sleeve will need to be worn around the clock for the next 3 to 4 weeks.
Your arms will be bruised and swollen for the first week following surgery. However, pain is minimal. As with other body contouring procedures, you should plan on staying home for the first week, with very limited activities, including walking, reading, and light duty around the house. Driving should be avoided during this time as well as heavy lifting or reaching above your head.
In two weeks, you may begin to gently increase your activity, including more extensive walking, but avoid aggressive exercise or weight lifting. Running and other high-impact activities are also to be avoided for 4 to 6 weeks.
There may be some diminished sensation along the inner part of the upper arm. Much of this will go away as the swelling subsides over the next 6 weeks.
Risks and Complications
What are the risks and complications (of an arm lift)?
While an arm lift is generally a safe procedure, it is important to be aware of the potential risks and complications associated with the treatment. The upper arm skin is especially sensitive and prone to complications following surgery. Some patients may experience blood clots as a result of strenuous exercise or activity too soon after their procedure. Other short-term risks of an arm lift may include swelling, bruising, infection, asymmetry in the arms, or folds in the skin.
Patients should be aware that they cannot return to normal activity until 6-8 weeks after their operation. During this time, compression bandages will need to be worn to help support the treated area for optimal results. Furthermore, treatment goals such as a smoother contour may not be fully realized until several months postoperatively.
It is also essential for patients to watch out for more serious complications that can arise following surgery, such as shortness of breath or chest pain. If any medical issues arise during recovery, it is important they seek help from their doctor right away. Postoperative care should also involve routine follow-up visits so that your surgeon can monitor your progress and make sure you are healing properly.
-
- A.C., ,
Why choose Dr Panossian
- He received his medical education at Tufts University School of Medicine.
- Graduated at the top of his class at UCLA, receiving Phi Beta Kappa and Summa Cum Laude honors.
- Was accepted into an elite combined general surgery and plastic surgery residency at the Keck School of Medicine of USC.
- Completed subspecialty training in craniofacial surgery at the Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto and Harvard Medical School.
- Was mentored by Dr. Ron Zuker in the practice of facial paralysis reconstruction. This prestigious fellowship position was available to only one surgeon in the United States.
- Is affiliated with various charitable and educational organizations, including Operation Smile and Mending Kids.
- Is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the highly selective American Association of Plastic Surgeons, reserved for only a select group of individuals nationally who have demonstrated excellence in academic plastic surgery.
- Holds memberships in several other professional societies including the American College of Surgeons and the American Society of Reconstructive Microsurgery.
- He serves on the Board of Directors for Mending Kids and the Gondobay Manga Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to the improvement of lives in Sierra Leone.
- Has been nominated by his peers annually since 2012 as a “Super Doctor.”
- Served as an expert medical consultant and appeared on The Doctors, Grey’s Anatomy, and Nip/Tuck.
- Has been featured as “Top Doctor” in US News and World Report, Pasadena Magazine, and Los Angeles Magazine.
Frequently Asked Questions About Upper Arm Lift
If you live near Pasadena, CA, Dr. Panossian offers Upper Arm Lift among its services, and is conveniently located at 39 Congress St., Suite 402 Pasadena, CA 91105
Last modified by Dr. Andre Panossian
