As we age, we lose firmness in the skin, giving the appearance of drooping or sagging skin. This can lead to the appearance of “flabby arms”. As well, significant weight loss can create loose skin, and cause the skin on the underside of the arms to sag. This can impact your confidence and comfort levels. A surgical procedure like an arm lift will get rid of loose underarm skin.
Who is a good candidate for an arm lift?
• They do not smoke or drink excessively
• They are fairly physically healthy
• They do not have any medical conditions that can impair or slow the healing process.
• They have realistic goals for surgery.
• Dr. Hardaway will work with patients to determine what will be best to meet their needs.
What is Arm Lift Surgery?
An arm lift, also known as a brachioplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes excess and sagging skin on the upper arms, between the armpit and elbow. This procedure reduces the circumference of the upper arm by removing and tightening the loose skin. In some cases, liposuction will be recommended to remove the excess fat deposits. Brachioplasty and liposuction procedures can be done together or individually to improve the “Bat Wing” look.
An arm lift is performed under general anesthesia, while the patient is fully asleep. It is an outpatient procedure, meaning the patient will be sent home after surgery. During the procedure, incisions are made on the underside of the arms. The length of the incisions depends on the patient’s needs, and how much skin will need to be removed. The underlying tissues of the arms are then tightened, and any excess skin is removed. Liposuction may also be performed to remove excess fat. The incision will then be closed with stitches, and the arms loosely bandaged. Drains may be placed in the arms to remove excess fluid.
Then your new, shapely ,and toned upper arm will dramatically improved both in appearance and feel.
Recovery
During surgery, your incisions will be closed with absorbable sutures. A few nonabsorbable sutures will be removed within one to two weeks following surgery. The smoother, tighter contours that result from brachioplasty are apparent almost immediately following the procedure, although initial results may be somewhat obscured by swelling and bruising.
Compression garments may be recommended to help minimize swelling after surgery. You can return to work when cleared by the doctor. Avoid lifting the arms above the head for 3 to 4 weeks and avoid any activity that may strain the arms for 4 to 8 weeks after surgery.
The procedure will require a scar that can extend from the arm pit to the elbow on the inside of the arm. These scars usually heal well after a period of wearing a compression garment. Various scar treatments may be suggested if you have a history of thick scars. Liposuction will require several very small incisions that can also be minimal once healed.
Results from an arm lift are long lasting. However, factors such as weight gain can affect the appearance of the arms. As well, the skin can lose firmness and sag as aging progresses, but usually not enough to warrant another procedure. Maintaining a stable weight and healthy fitness habits will help your results last longer.
Possible Risks and Complications
The most common risk of an arm lift is scarring around the surgical incisions. However, the incisions are made in an area that is typically hidden. Infection is a risk with any surgery, as well as excess bleeding. Following Dr. Hardaway’s instructions closely after surgery will help decrease the chance of these risks.
Consultation and Decision Making
The decision to have arm lift surgery is extremely personal, and you will have to decide if the benefits will achieve your goals and if the risks and potential complications are acceptable. Dr. Hardaway will address any concerns you may have during your free personalized consultation. Visit www.MichelleHardawayMD.com or call 248-855-6030 for more information.
A consultation is vital to discuss your goals and wanted outcome for the surgery. Dr. Hardaway offers in person and virtual consultations.
Prior to the consultation, you will be sent a link to read about the procedure. During the consultation, a history and physical examination of the intended area are taken. After a physical examination, you will be shown before and after photos. Then, photographs are taken, and these photos will be used to illustrate the desired procedure in greater detail. These will be used to show the incision and surgical areas of the procedure. Afterward, the recovery process is discussed.
Brachioplasty is usually performed on an outpatient basis at our surgical suite which is fully accredited the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities (QUAD A), using the latest equipment available. Make sure to choose a plastic surgeon who is board certified. As well, look for a surgeon experienced in the procedure you are looking for. An arm lift is not covered by insurance, though some surgical procedures can be.
If you have found you are avoiding short sleeves or sleeveless outfits because of your arms, it is now time to contact our office to set up a personalized consultation with Dr. Hardaway for an arm lift surgery. Results from the surgery are lasting and can help boost self confidence. She can confirm if you are a good candidate for this procedure and help you achieve your aesthetic goals.
FAQs
How much does an arm lift cost?
The cost of the surgery varies from patient to patient, depending on the needs and wants of each specific patient, and the procedures performed. Dr. Hardaway will help you find a procedure and payment plan that suits your needs.
How is an arm lift performed?
An arm lift is performed under general anesthesia, while the patient is fully asleep. It is an outpatient procedure, meaning the patient will be sent home after surgery. During the procedure, incisions are made on the underside of the arms. The length of the incisions depends on the patient’s needs, and how much skin will need to be removed. The underlying tissues of the arms are then tightened, and any excess skin is removed. Liposuction may also be performed to remove excess fat. The incision will then be closed with stitches, and the arms loosely bandaged. Drains may be placed in the arms to remove excess fluid.
How long is the recovery from an arm lift?
Compression garments may be recommended to help minimize swelling after surgery. You can return to work when cleared by the doctor. Avoid lifting the arms above the head for 3 to 4 weeks, and avoid any activity that may strain the arms for 4 to 8 weeks after surgery.
How long do results from an arm lift last?
Results from an arm lift are long lasting. However, factors such as weight gain can affect the appearance of the arms. As well, the skin can lose firmness and sag as aging progresses, but usually not enough to warrant another procedure. Maintaining a stable weight and healthy fitness habits will help the results last longer.
What are the risks of an arm lift?
The most common risk of an arm lift is scarring around the surgical incisions. However, the incisions are made in an area that is typically hidden. Infection is a risk with any surgery, as well as excess bleeding. Following the doctor’s instructions closely after surgery will help decrease the chance of these risks.
Unfortunately, exercise alone will not tighten the skin. Exercise can contour the muscle but cannot replace the lost elasticity of the skin. A stable weight is important to achieve optimal results. At your evaluation, Dr. Hardaway will discuss the location and type of incision along with risks and complications. This procedure can be performed as an outpatient procedure in an accredited office surgical suite, an ambulatory surgical center or in a hospital setting. This is often determined by your medical history.