Arm Lift (Brachioplasty)

Brachioplasty: Arm Lift Surgery

What is Arm Lift?

An arm lift, also known as brachioplasty, is a surgical procedure to remove loose skin and excess fat deposits in the upper arms to create a more attractive and toned arm appearance. With age, upper arm skin can become loose and flabby and you may want to tighten this skin to look as good as you feel. In some cases, liposuction may be performed instead of or in conjunction with an arm lift to remove excess fat in the upper arms.

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Candidates for Arm Lift

An arm lift, also known as brachioplasty, is a surgical procedure to remove loose skin and excess fat deposits in the upper arms to create a more attractive and toned arm appearance. With age, upper arm skin can become loose and flabby and you may want to tighten this skin to look as good as you feel. In some cases, liposuction may be performed instead of or in conjunction with an arm lift to remove excess fat in the upper arms.

Preparing for Arm Lift

Before undergoing arm lift surgery, your plastic surgeon will review your medical history and address any concerns you may have about the procedure. Lab tests may also be ordered to ensure that you are in good health. Notify your plastic surgeon of all medications you are currently taking, as some may need to be temporarily stopped before the procedure. Individuals that smoke will need to stop before surgery, as it will interfere with the healing

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Procedure

An arm lift is usually performed as an outpatient procedure under general anesthesia. First, incisions will be made on the back of your arm. Then, liposuction may be used to remove excess fat, and excessive skin is tightened and trimmed. At the end of the procedure, the incisions will be sealed with absorbable sutures and sutures that need to be removed.

Recovery from Arm Lift

Patients return home the same day as their arm lift procedure, and results are often visible immediately. You may experience pain, swelling, and bruising during the post-operative period and, painkillers are usually prescribed to minimize discomfort. About three days after arm lift surgery additional, swelling may occur; this swelling should subside within two weeks. To minimize swelling, it is important to keep your arm elevated with pillows. Any stitches used are typically removed a week after the arm lift procedure. You will be able to shower again a week after surgery and you may return to work within three weeks. For four to six weeks following arm lift surgery, you will be advised to refrain from heavy lifting and strenuous exercise

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Risks

All surgical procedures carry a risk of complications, and arm lift surgery is no different. These risks may include scarring, seromas (fluid collections), loss of sensation, swollen hands, infection, poor wound healing, hematoma, and complications from anesthesia. You can minimize the occurrence of complications by choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon for your procedure and following all post-operative instructions carefully.

To learn more about arm lift surgery, contact us today to schedule an appointment with our board-certified plastic surgeon.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is an arm lift?

Also known as brachioplasty, this plastic surgery is performed to eliminate loose skin and excess fat deposits from the upper arms, with the goal of creating a more tone and aesthetically pleasing arm appearance. The procedure may also be referred to as arm liposuction, as it usually involves the use of liposuction to remove fatty deposits from the upper arms.

Who is a candidate for an arm lift?

Ideal candidates for brachioplasty should be in good overall health and be close to their desired weight. They should have loose skin or fat deposits on the upper arm that have not been improved through diet and exercise programs. Patients who have recently lost a significant amount of weight may find that excess skin remains on their arms. Such individuals can greatly benefit from an arm lift, as it is difficult to naturally eliminate excess hanging skin after weight loss. Patients should also have realistic expectations about the outcome of their procedure. After meeting with you, our plastic surgeon can help you determine if you are a good candidate for an arm lift procedure.

What results can be achieve through an arm lift?

An arm lift can reshape your skin to provide a more toned appearance and more attractive contours. Excess skin and fat will be reduced, giving your arm a more proportionate appearance. Additionally, skin will be smoother and irregularities on the surface of the skin will be minimized.

How is an arm lift performed?

Your arm lift will be performed under general anesthesia or a combination of intravenous sedation and local anesthesia. Brachioplasty is an outpatient procedure, so you will be able to return home on the same day as your surgery. First, incisions will be made on the inside of your upper arm. Then liposuction will be used to remove excess fat. Excess skin may be tightened and trimmed. Finally, your plastic surgeon will carefully suture your incisions to minimize visible scarring.

How long is the recovery period?

During the recovery period, you may experience pain, swelling, and bruising. Discomfort can be alleviated with prescription or over-the-counter painkillers. Your doctor may advise you to keep your arms elevated to minimize swelling, which typically subsides within 2 weeks. Stitches are usually removed 1 week after surgery, at which point you will be able to shower again. Most patients are able to return to work within 3 weeks, but should avoid strenuous activities and lifting for 6 weeks. Your doctor will provide you with a set of post-surgical guidelines to minimize discomfort and help ensure a successful outcome.

Where can I learn more about arm liposuction?

Please contact us to learn more about how an arm lift can improve the contour and shape of your arms. Our plastic surgery centers are conveniently located throughout Westchester County, Nassau County, and Suffolk County. Our doctors are happy to answer any questions to help you determine if brachioplasty is right for you.

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