Brachioplasty/Upper Arm Lift
What is an Arm Lift?
Arm lifts have become a very popular procedure to take care of “jiggly” arms. Often, no amount of diet and exercise can restore firmness and tone to the upper arms. An arm lift, also known as a brachioplasty, is a surgical procedure that tightens loose skin and removes localized fat from the underarm to the elbow to achieve tighter skin and a more toned appearance. The arm lift cannot correct weakened muscles of the upper arm; in fact many individuals who seek surgery are relatively fit individuals who are bothered by a condition that cannot be corrected through exercise.
Who are the Ideal Candidates?
In general, good candidates for an arm lift are: Adults of any age or gender whose weight is relatively stable and who are snot significantly overweight. Healthy individuals who do not have medical conditions that can impair healing or increase the risk of surgery. Individuals that have a elastic goals for what an arm lift can accomplish.
About the Procedure
An arm lift is done under either intravenous sedation or general anesthesia. The incision length depends upon the amount of skin laxity the patient has and the amount and location of excess skin to be removed. With better elasticity, an incision can be done with an under arm incision hidden in the fold when your arms are at your sides. With less elasticity an incision may have to be placed on the inside or on the back of the arm, which is hidden to a normal pose. Dr. Stamatiou will discuss your cosmetic goals with you and determine if an arm lift is right for you. However it is important to understand that the trade off to an improved body contour and image through an arm lift is the resulting scar on the inside portion of your upper arm.
Once your arm lift is completed, your arms will be wrapped in an elastic bandage to minimize swelling and to support your new contours as you heal. This procedure is performed as an outpatient and you will be able to go home after surgery. After your procedure you will be given thorough post operative instructions, and follow up appointments. For the first few days after surgery, you may experience some swelling as you begin to heal. You may also have some soreness and discomfort, which can be controlled with medication. The healing timeline depends on the extent of the surgery. For out-of-town patients, we can recommend a number of hotels in close proximity to our facilities.
What is Recovery Like?
Following your arm lift procedure, your arms will be swollen and may be bruised. You will be instructed to keep your arms elevated for several days and instructed to avoid lifting or bearing any weight on your arms for several days to weeks. Depending on the extent of the surgery, your surgeon may advise you to limit your range of motion until internal healing is complete. Your incisions will heal within 7-10 days. Follow up appointments will be scheduled.
The dramatic improvement in arm contour following arm lift surgery can greatly enhance your body image. The results of arm lift will be long-lasting, provided that you remain at a stable weight and fitness. As your body ages, it is natural to lose some firmness.