What is an Arm Lift?
Brachioplasty, or an arm lift, is performed to reduce skin and fat of the upper arm. Aging, weight loss, and heredity can play a role in the appearance of your arms. Loose skin cannot be significantly tightened with exercise, so a surgical procedure like an arm lift can help you finally tighten and tone your arms. The procedure can be performed alone or as part of a larger set of procedures like body contouring after weight loss.
Who is a Candidate for Arm Lift?
The best candidates for arm lift surgery have loose skin and redundant fat of their upper arms. They have realistic expectations of what can be achieved with a surgical procedure and have a strong understanding of their goals for treatment. Candidates should be within their ideal weight range and understand that an arm lift is not a weight loss procedure, and a healthy weight still needs to be maintained for long-lasting results.
What Happens During an Arm Lift?
Brachioplasty surgery is performed in the hospital as an outpatient procedure. If it is combined with other procedures an overnight stay may be necessary. It is performed under general anesthesia. The length of the incision and the subsequent scar will depend on how much extra skin and fat you need to be removed. The incision is placed on the inner posterior arm where it is least noticeable. The incision can extend from the axilla (armpit) to the elbow. It can be carried down across the axilla and onto the lateral chest wall if necessary. The surgical site is repaired with multiple layers of buried sutures to take tension off of the incision. Drains are usually not needed.
Arm Lift FAQs
Can underarm fat be removed?
Does arm lift leave a scar?
Do compression garments help with loose skin?
What is arm lift surgery?
How long does it take to recover from an arm lift?
Does insurance pay for arm lift?
Do arm lift scars fade?
Does arm lipo hurt?
How much does a Brachioplasty surgery cost?
How long after Brachioplasty Can I exercise?
How long does it take for Brachioplasty scars to heal?
What Will my Recovery be Like?
After your arm lift your arms will be gently wrapped in lightly compressive bandages. After a few days, the bandages will be traded for compressive sleeves. Pain medication is used for 1-2 weeks as needed. The average length of time to be out from work is 2-4 weeks. Strenuous activities should be avoided for 4-6 weeks.
For more information on the arm lift procedure or other contouring procedures, we offer, schedule your consultation with Dr. Kayastha at K Plastic Surgery.