Upper Arm Lift
(Brachioplasty/Armplasty)

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Upper Arm Lift (Brachioplasty/Armplasty)

Arm lift is a procedure that can help bring back the appearance of firm, tight, more shapely arms. Extreme weight loss, genetics, and age can produce unsightly sagging, loose skin in the upper arms that cannot be remedied through exercise. Each of these factors can contribute to the skin’s poor elasticity and weakening of arm muscles. For men, getting buff biceps seems easier to achieve.  For women it is more difficult and, a loose, flabby upper arm is more a source of embarrassment.

In 2005, there were 11,873 armlift procedures performed, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. The rise in this procedure’s popularity can partially be attributed to the increase in gastric bypass surgery. Large amounts of weight loss will typically result in large amounts of excess sagging skin and many weight loss patients can experience rashes underneath the folds of the excess arm skin. Additionally, exercising can be uncomfortable and finding comfortable clothes to fit can cause much frustration.

For those who are unable to improve flabby, loose skin in the arms, an upper arm lift is the only option for tightening skin and reducing the appearance of fat to provide a firmer, more toned upper arm appearance.

But for those patients who want to only reduce fat in the arms for a smaller upper arm appearance, liposuction is an option and can be performed without the incisions associated with arm lift.

Am I a good candidate for upper arm lift?

The best candidates for an upper arm lift procedure have a desire for a more youthful appearance of their arms. Patients should be in good physical and mental health and have realistic expectations about the results they may expect from the upper arm lift procedure.

The Procedure

Most patients undergo general anesthesia during their upper arm lift surgery. An incision is made in the back, inside part of the arm--from the elbow to the armpit. Through this incision, your surgeon is able to eliminate excess skin, tighten skin & muscle as well as remove excess fat. The incision is then closed with sutures and a pressure garment, made of an elastic material, is placed on the arms and worn to help reduce swelling. Liposuction is often used in conjunction with arm lift to help reduce some fat and provide better contour.

Some surgeons will use a small incision in the armpit and pull the much of the excess skin up toward the under arm. This procedure is referred to as the “inner arm tuck” and can avoid the incision made from the elbow down to the armpit. There can be drawbacks to this technique, however, if the incision area doesn’t heal well within the armpit.

How will I look and feel after recovering from the surgery?

• You will have mild to moderate discomfort during the first few days after surgery and will need some assistance.
• You will be required to wear an elastic support garment or wrap to compress and reduce swelling as well as to reinforce the new arm shape. The compression garment is typically worn for up to 2 weeks. Swelling will have improved at this time.
• Initially, use of your arms will be limited and you should avoid heavy lifting or fully extending your arms for 1 to 2 weeks.
• Some movement is encouraged, including light exercise, so that range of motion is maintained while healing.
• Sutures are removed in a couple phases: a few days after surgery and then again after two weeks.
• Once the garment is removed it is normal for the arms to still be bruised and swollen.
• Remaining sutures and staples come out after another week or so, and final swelling is gone after another two months, revealing the final enhanced look.
• Scars may take one to two years to fade. However, some people return for additional options available to help reduce the appearance of their scars.

When can I get back to my everyday routine?

• Although swelling is apparent, most patients will be ready to return to work or school within two weeks.
• After a month or two, many patients will feel more comfortable and able to see the results of their surgery

Results of upper arm lift surgery

Together you and your surgeon will devise a course of action that will help you achieve the best possible outcome. The upper arm lift procedure is permanent and can last many years. However, age and additional weight loss in the future may alter your original results.

The drawback to this type of surgery is the scars. However, most patients find the scars to be a good exchange for eliminating the unsightly appearance of hanging arms skin.

IT IS IMPORTANT TO NOTE

• There are risks associated with any surgical procedure.
• The specific risks and suitability of each procedure for a given individual can only be determined at the time of consultation. 
• Minor complications that do not affect the outcome may occasionally occur.
• Major complications are rare.

Your plastic surgeon will review any and all risks and benefits with you during a private consultation