Transform your arms with expertise at Dr. Panossian’s clinic. Struggling with loose skin or uneven contours? Our arm lift procedure offers a sleek solution. Experience a harmonious blend of improved tone, shape, and overall arm appearance, leading to enhanced body confidence.
Procedure Benefits
Rejuvenate your arms’ appearance with an arm lift at Dr. Panossian’s renowned clinic. This procedure skillfully addresses loose or sagging skin, often caused by weight fluctuations, aging, or genetics. Under expert care, you can achieve beautifully contoured arms, blending improved aesthetics with physical comfort.
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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.
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.
before and after results.
What Our Patients Say
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Who is a candidate for Arm Lift Surgery?
An ideal candidate for arm lift or mini 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.
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 arm lift 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.
Are You Ready For A Consultation?
If you are considering this procedure, booking a consultation with an experienced board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Panossian is a great way to learn about the procedure and determine if it’s right for you.
Benefits
Arm Lift Cost
The cost of an arm lift procedure will vary depending on the patient’s individual needs and goals, as well as their geographic location. Additionally, other factors, such as the complexity of the case and the experience level of the surgeon, can also influence how much it will cost.
Patients should talk to their board-certified plastic surgeon to get a more exact estimate for their specific circumstances. In most cases, insurance may not cover this type of cosmetic surgery, so patients must make sure they budget accordingly in order to pay for all fees associated with the procedure.
It is important to note that the ultimate outcome of an arm lift surgery largely depends on how well patients follow their post-operative care instructions and adhere to any restrictions prescribed by their doctor. Taking these steps can help ensure that patients achieve their desired results and enjoy long-term satisfaction with their new look.
Realistic Expectations of Arm Lift Surgery
- Temporary Results: Understand that the results are not permanent and may require maintenance.
- Scarring: Expect some degree of scarring along the back of the arms.
- Possible Touch-Ups: Be prepared for potential touch-up procedures over time.
- Age and Muscle Tone Limitations: An arm lift does not make one look younger or improve muscle tone.
- Continued Healthy Lifestyle: Emphasize the importance of regular exercise and a healthy diet post-surgery.
- Limitations on Fixing Underlying Issues: Recognize that an arm lift doesn’t address sagging muscles or poor skin elasticity due to aging or genetics.
What is the recovery (from an arm lift like)?
Understanding the brachioplasty surgery duration, postoperative care, and expected physical changes is crucial for those considering this surgery. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
Procedure Details and Setting
An arm lift typically takes 2 to 4 hours, depending on the extent of skin redundancy. It’s usually an outpatient procedure, but an overnight stay is recommended if combined with other procedures like a tummy tuck, breast reduction, or thigh lift. During the surgery, long-acting local anesthesia is used alongside general anesthesia to significantly reduce postoperative pain.
Postoperative Care and Recovery
Post-surgery, pain is managed with long-acting local and general anesthesia. Initial care requires assistance, with gauze and a compression sleeve as dressings. Activity is limited initially, gradually increasing after two weeks. High-impact activities are off-limits for 4-6 weeks.
Expected Physical Changes
Following the surgery, expect your arms to be bruised and swollen for the first week, though pain is typically minimal. There may be diminished sensation along the inner upper arm, which usually improves as swelling decreases over the next 6 weeks.
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.
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
Patients who have undergone a brachioplasty, or upper arm lift, should avoid driving for at least one to two weeks following the procedure. This is because driving requires the use of your arms and shoulders, which may still be sore and limited in movement during the initial recovery period. It is important to follow your surgeon’s specific instructions and wait until you have regained enough strength and mobility in your arms before operating a vehicle. Always prioritize safety and consult with your surgeon if you have any concerns about resuming light activities like driving after brachioplasty.
It is important to ensure that your weight is stable prior to surgery, as gaining or losing weight can affect the results of the procedure. Additionally, having too much fatty tissue in the area can make it difficult for your surgeon to achieve the desired contour.
Yes, there are several types of upper arm lifts, including Brachioplasty (arm lift), Extended Arm Lift, and Mini-Arm Lift. Your plastic surgeon will be able to advise you on which type is suitable for your individual needs.
Generally speaking, it usually takes about 6-8 weeks after surgery until swelling subsides and any visible arm lift scarring begins to fade. However, this can vary from patient to patient, so it is important to discuss expectations with your plastic surgeon prior to treatment.
If you live near Pasadena, CA, Dr. Panossian offers Upper Arm Lift among his services and is conveniently located at 39 Congress St., Suite 402, Pasadena, CA 91105
Last modified by Dr. Andre Panossian
