Do you avoid short-sleeved shirts because of flapping flesh in your upper arms? Do you hide behind jackets and sweaters? Rest assured that you are not the only one. Many people develop a loss of skin elasticity in the upper arm for the natural aging process or from a dramatic weight loss. This can rob you of your self-confidence and cause you to miss out on things because you may be hiding those arms. You don’t have to hide anymore or over-dress for the weather with long sleeves in the warmer months. Help and hope is here with an Arm Lift Procedure, also known as Brachioplasty!
What Happens During an Arm Lift Procedure?
Arm lift procedures are done under general anesthesia, so the procedure will be done in a surgical center or hospital rather than the physician’s office. The entire procedure takes approximately 2 hours to perform. If the extra skin is mainly confined to the upper part of the arm, a “mini” arm lift procedure can be done in which an incision is made from the armpit and the excess skin is pulled up and tucked in near the armpit. IF the excess skin goes all the way to the elbow, it has to be removed, rather than tucked. In most cases, liposuction is done along with skin excision, this not only removes the excess fat but also helps to contour the arm for a sleek, new look. After the excess fatty tissue is removed, excess skin is removed, and the remaining skin is stretched and sutured into place.
What Is the Recovery Like?
After the Arm Lift is completed, patients will wake up with bandages on the surgical site. Compression garments are also placed around the arms to help to reduce swelling and to help the tissue grow and adhere in its new position. Drains may also be used to remove fluid from underneath the surgical site. The recovery time is generally 4 weeks long and during this time, patients are asked to avoid strenuous activities. Many patients are ready to return to work after the first or second week. During follow-up visits, patients will be advised on when to return to other activities.
Take the Next Step
If you are ready to stop hiding those arms and start feeling more confident, it’s time to take the next step! To learn more about the Arm Lift Brachioplasty surgery, or to schedule your consultation at Dermatology and Plastic Surgery of Arizona, please fill out the form on this page. You can call our Tucson location at 520-207-3100 or our Sierra Vista location at 520-458-1787. Our Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon Dr. Moenster, would love to start you on your journey to better-looking arms and improved self-confidence! We look forward to seeing you soon!