Arm Lift
Conveniently located to serve the areas of San Antonio, TX
Weight loss and natural aging can cause excess or loose skin to form on the upper arms, creating an unwanted “bat wing” appearance. An upper arm lift, or Brachioplasty, is a procedure done to tighten this loose skin for slimmer, more youthful looking upper arms.
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Before and After Photos
Who is a Good Candidate?
Both men and women who have significant upper arm skin elasticity and excess fat that causes self-consciousness or difficulty fitting into clothing can benefit from arm lifts. Arm lift candidates should be at a stable healthy weight, be nonsmokers, and be committed to a healthy lifestyle to maintain results. You want to be at a stable weight because if you lose weight after an arm lift, it could lead to more sagging or hanging skin. An arm lift consultation with board-certified cosmetic surgeons Dr. Homas or Dr. Brostrom can determine if this procedure is right for you.
The Procedure
For the arm lift procedure, the incision used will depend on the amount and location of sagging skin that will be removed. Generally, incisions for the arm lift are placed on the inside of the arm or back of the arm, extending to the elbow. Your cosmetic surgeon will then continue by removing excess skin and fat will be removed. We offer three main arm lift techniques. These are:
Standard Arm Lift: Skin and fat are removed through an incision that is made from the armpit to the elbow.
Limited-incision Arm Lift: This technique is ideal for patients with minimal upper arm laxity. The incisions are limited to the underarm areas.
Extended Arm Lift: This type of arm lift is usually beneficial for those who have undergone massive weight loss. It is like a standard arm lift, but the incision is extended to the body to remove skin and fat on the chest wall.
Local or general anesthesia will be used to ensure your comfort. Which one is used will depend on how extensive the procedure is and the results you’re looking for.
What is an Arm Lift?
An arm lift, also known as brachioplasty, is designed to improve the appearance of the upper arms by removing excess skin and fat. This procedure is particularly beneficial for individuals who have experienced significant weight loss or natural aging, resulting in sagging skin that cannot be corrected through exercise alone. An arm lift helps achieve heightened self-confidence by tightening and smoothing the underlying supportive tissue.
Arm Lift Benefits
There are a multitude of benefits to arm lift surgery, including:
- Reduces sagging and drooping skin, creating a more toned and youthful appearance.
- Increases self-esteem and satisfaction with one’s appearance.
- Enables wearing sleeveless clothing confidently.
- Reduces irritation and chafing from excess skin.
- Decreases the likelihood of skin infections and rashes in the underarm area.
- With proper care, the results can be maintained for many years.
- Tailored to individual needs for optimal aesthetic results.
Arm Lift Incision Options
Several incision options are available for an arm lift, each tailored to the patient’s needs and the extent of correction required. The choice of incision depends on factors such as excess skin amount, location, and the patient’s scar placement preference. Each option has advantages and considerations, which will be thoroughly discussed to determine the best approach for achieving the desired results:
Inner Arm Incision
The inner arm incision is popular for patients requiring significant skin removal and tightening. This incision runs along the inside of the arm, from the armpit to the elbow, making it relatively discreet when the arms are at rest. This approach allows for substantial reshaping and is particularly effective for those with considerable skin laxity.
Back of Arm Incision
The back of arm incision is another effective option, particularly for patients who need extensive correction but prefer a less visible scar. This incision is made along the back of the arm, extending from the armpit to just above the elbow. It offers excellent access for removing excess skin and fat, while the scar is less noticeable when the arms are relaxed.
Minimal Incision
A minimal-incision arm lift may be an ideal solution for patients with mild to moderate skin laxity. This technique involves more minor, strategically placed incisions within the armpit to remove limited amounts of excess skin and fat. The minimal incision is best suited for individuals with good skin elasticity and requiring only minor contouring to achieve their desired arm shape.
Preparing for Arm Lift
Proper preparation is crucial for a successful arm lift procedure. Patients should start by scheduling a thorough consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss their goals, medical history, and any potential risks. Pre-operative instructions typically include maintaining a stable weight, quitting smoking, and avoiding certain medications that could increase bleeding. Additionally, arranging transportation and post-surgery care is essential for a smooth recovery.
Arm Lift Procedure
Once the patient is sedated, Dr. Homas makes the predetermined incisions; excess skin and fat are removed, and the underlying tissues are tightened and reshaped to create a more toned appearance. The incisions are meticulously closed with sutures, and bandages are applied to support the healing process. The entire procedure typically takes a few hours, depending on the extent of the lift required.
Results of Arm Lift
Patients can expect immediate improvements in the contour and firmness of their arms following an arm lift. Although some swelling and bruising are normal initially, these effects will subside over time, revealing smoother, more toned upper arms. The final results typically become evident within a few months as the body heals and the tissues settle into their new shape.
What to Expect From an Arm Lift Consultation
Dr. Homas will thoroughly examine the patient’s arms, evaluating skin quality, fat distribution, and overall health to determine the most suitable approach. Detailed explanations of the various incision options, potential risks, and the recovery process will be provided. This comprehensive assessment ensures the patient is well-informed and confident about their decision to proceed with the arm lift.
Recovery
Following arm lift surgery, you will need to wear a compression garment or wrap over the treatment area. This garment will help to diminish swelling, as well as support your arms as they heal. A tiny drain may be placed to drain excess fluid from the treatment area.
Mild to moderate discomfort is to be expected, which can be treated with pain medication. Bruising and swelling may also occur, which should subside over the next 10-14 days. To ensure proper healing, patients should avoid exercise for 6 weeks and contact sports for 12 weeks. Following Dr. Homas’ or Dr. Brostrom’s specific post-op instructions can help to ensure a safe and quick recovery.
If you are interested in learning more about the arm lift procedure in the San Antonio area, contact New Image Plastic Surgery today to schedule a consultation!