Arm lift surgery, medically referred to as brachioplasty, is designed to eliminate sagging, excess skin in the upper arms to provide a more youthful and contoured appearance. Often resulting from the natural aging process or weight fluctuations over time, the accumulation of loose, inelastic skin in these areas is a very common condition. An arm lift from our board-certified plastic surgeon, Dana Coberly, MD, can ultimately reshape the upper arms and give the skin a much firmer, more defined look.
What Are the Benefits of Arm Lift Surgery?
An arm lift can be an ideal procedure for both women and men who are experiencing a pronounced loss of tissue elasticity in the upper arms. This collection of loose skin can be present among individuals who may otherwise be in the best shape of their lives, which makes it even more frustrating when a healthy diet and exercise regimen yields no significant effect on the arms. Fortunately, arm lift surgery can remove the excess skin and redrape the remaining skin for results that look more sculpted and toned.
During your initial consultation with Dr. Coberly, she will examine your upper arms and help you determine whether arm lift surgery is right for your needs. If the concern is primarily being caused by excess fat rather than skin, liposuction may be a more appropriate solution. Upon evaluation, Dr. Coberly will recommend the most ideal option and create a customized treatment plan designed to achieve your goals.
Who Is a Candidate for Arm Lift Surgery?
An ideal candidate for arm lift surgery is typically an individual who is experiencing significant sagging skin along the upper arms. This is often due to major weight loss, the natural aging process, or genetic factors. Candidates should be at a stable, healthy weight and in good general health before undergoing this procedure. Patients should also be non-smokers since smoking can negatively affect the healing process and increase the risk of complications. Additionally, individuals pursuing arm lift surgery should have realistic expectations about procedure outcomes and understand that there will be a residual scar in the medial arm area.
Dr. Coberly can talk with you about all aspects of arm lift surgery during the consultation and determine whether you are an ideal candidate for this treatment.
What Does the Arm Lift Procedure Involve?
Arm lift surgery is usually performed on an outpatient basis, and general anesthesia is often required for this procedure. Dr. Coberly will make incisions along the inner region of the upper arms in order to remove the excess skin. The incision may extend from the underarm to just above the elbow, depending on the amount of skin that will be removed. Dr. Coberly also offers a short scar brachioplasty, which keeps the scars in the arm pit. She will then pull the remaining skin taut to produce smoother skin and a more contoured appearance. Post-operative dressings applied to the surgical site serve to protect the skin and encourage a safe healing process, and temporary drains may be placed to collect excess fluid during recovery.
What Is Recovery Like After Arm Lift Surgery?
During the recovery period after arm lift surgery, patients can expect a certain degree of swelling and bruising in the treated areas. This should dissipate as the arms heal, and any discomfort can be alleviated with medication. Dr. Coberly will provide you with surgical garments to be temporarily worn on the upper arms during recovery. These garments can help the arms retain their new shape and facilitate the healing process. Most people can return to work within a week or two, but should avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting for at least a month (or longer, depending on Dr. Coberly’s specific recommendations). Additionally, it is important to keep the arms elevated as much as possible to decrease swelling.
Dr. Coberly will provide detailed post-operative instructions to help you achieve a safe, comfortable, and successful brachioplasty recovery.
If you have questions about arm lift surgery, or if you are ready to schedule your consultation with Dr. Coberly, please contact our practice today.