Would an Arm Lift Suit You?

When we think about body contours, we often instinctively look at the midsection or the hips. Sometimes, we look at the chest area. Rarely do we observe how the arms may affect a person’s appearance. The fact is though, when we get older, our upper arms usually sag and droop at least a little. The excess fat and skin that occur in this area can be very difficult to get rid of even with healthy habits and targeted exercise. This is where brachioplasty may come in. 

What is Brachioplasty?

Brachioplasty is the clinical term for an arm lift. This outpatient procedure is performed to remove the excess fat and skin that hang when the arms are held away from the body. It gets rid of the “bat wings” that flap when a person waves hello or goodbye. It has become more popular among older adults who have lost firmness and shape in the arms, and is also often a part of plastic surgery to address the results of massive weight loss. 

Patients undergo brachioplasty with general anesthesia. They are completely asleep and pain free for their procedure. To sculpt the arms, the surgeon makes incisions at the inner, back region of each arm. These incisions could be a few inches long, starting at the underarm area, or they could run from the underarm to the elbow. The length of the incision is determined by the shape of the arm before surgery and how much tissue needs to be removed. The scars that are left after surgery fade over time and end up being much less frustrating than the sagging that existed beforehand. Brachioplasty often involves liposuction to remove fat and reduce the circumference of the upper arm. Skin is then tightened over the muscle and superficial tissue. Excess is trimmed and the incisions are closed. 

What Happens After an Arm Lift?

Post-surgery, patients can expect bruising and swelling. Compression garments are usually applied right after surgery to help minimize these side effects and help shape the arms. Patients are advised not to lift their arms overhead for a few weeks after this procedure, and to avoid strenuous activities that could disrupt the healing sutures or exacerbate side effects. Even with these guidelines, though, some patients can return to work within a week or so after their procedure. 

Having thin, sculpted arms allows you to wear fitted long sleeves, short sleeves, and even tank tops with confidence. To learn more about arm lift surgery, call 713.271.9000 and schedule a consultation at our Sugar Land or Houston office. 

Posted in: Arm Lift