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Loose, sagging skin on the upper arms is a common concern. Weight loss, age, or genetics can contribute to this effect. Sagging upper arm skin can cause a lack of confidence and also result in chafing, rubbing, and irritation. Unfortunately, if your skin has lost its elasticity because of the natural aging process or because the skin has stretched beyond its natural capability, no amount of exercise or diet can resolve the sagging skin.

Arml Lift Before & Afters

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What Is An Arm Lift?

An arm lift is a surgical procedure that removes the skin on the underside of the upper arm from the armpit to the elbow. During a Brachioplasty procedure, the tissues are sculpted and contoured to achieve a firmer, tighter, more youthful appearance. Sagging, drooping skin that doesn’t change with exercise or diet and small fat pockets are removed to provide a toned, lifted appearance. 

Benefits Of Brachioplasty

For patients who suffer from sagging skin after significant weight loss, the remaining loose skin can be quite frustrating after the hard work and discipline it took to lose the weight. Unfortunately, the skin in the area was stretched beyond the point where it could bounce back. An arm lift allows you to be confident about showing off your new physique and feel that your weight loss journey is complete. 

Patients who are experiencing loose skin due to genetic predisposition or age may feel a lack of confidence about wearing sleeveless shirts or otherwise showing their arms. 

Whatever the cause of the sagging skin, Brachioplasty provides the following benefits for patients:

  • More proportionate, shapely arms
  • Reduced excess fat and skin
  • Lifted, more toned arms
  • Contoured tissues under the arms
  • Resolves rashes, inflammation, and hygiene concerns that arise from excess rubbing skin 
  • After significant weight loss, a well-deserved completion of the weight loss journey
  • More confidence and self-esteem

What Happens During The Brachioplasty Procedure?

During Brachioplasty, Dr. Courtney will remove excess fat and skin from your upper arms to create a more proportionate, toned appearance. After a thorough consultation to examine your skin and arms and understand your medical history and aesthetic goals, Dr. Courtney will design a surgical procedure that is customized for you.

The procedure begins with IV sedation or general anesthesia. Once this takes effect, an incision is made between the elbow and armpit on the underside or back of your arm. The exact location and length of the incision depend on the extent of the surgical work required to meet your needs. 

Through this incision, Dr. Courtney will use liposuction to gently disrupt and remove fat pockets, then trim away the excess skin. He will restructure and tighten the musculature of your arm with internal sutures to create a smooth, toned appearance. The incisions will be carefully closed with layered, absorbable sutures to minimize scarring.

Recovery After An Arm Lift

After your arm lift, there will be a period of temporary tightness and swelling of the upper arms. Expect some tingling and numbness in your hands. These effects are an expected part of the recovery process that resolves as the recovery period progresses.

To ensure proper healing, you will need to avoid vigorous exercise or other activities for up to six or eight weeks. Most patients can slowly return to normal activities during the first week or two after their surgery. 

As you heal, avoid sun exposure and take proper care of your skin, which will help your scars heal well and fade properly. We will provide detailed aftercare instructions and check in with you during follow-up appointments to ensure your healing process is going according to plan.

Am I A Candidate For An Arm Lift?

Candidates for an arm lift want to resolve sagging skin under their arms and achieve a firmer, tighter contour. The best candidates for an arm lift meet the following requirements:

  • Are generally in good health
  • Are not significantly overweight
  • Do not smoke
  • Have sagging skin that hangs from the upper arms
  • Are at a relatively stable weight
  • Have Realistic Expectations About What Brachioplasty Can Accomplish

FAQ

Will there be scars?

Incisions required for an arm lift are made as inconspicuous as possible to ensure they are not highly noticeable. Brachioplasty scars generally fade well.

Does insurance cover an arm lift?

Unless it is deemed medically necessary, insurance will not cover arm lift surgery. If patients have limited arm function because excess skin is severe, insurance may help cover the cost of the surgery.

How can I prepare for brachioplasty?

Stop smoking and taking blood-thinning medications (such as aspirin). Have a medical exam to ensure you are in good health. Prepare for your recovery period by stocking your fridge with healthy meals so you won’t have to worry about cooking.

When can I start exercising after brachioplasty?

Many patients can resume light exercise after two weeks. Wait for 4-8 weeks, until your arms are fully healed, before you resume vigorous exercise.

Can I combine brachioplasty with another procedure?

An arm lift can be combined with other procedures to achieve a more enhanced, dramatic effect. An arm lift can be combined with a thigh lift, tummy tuck, liposuction, breast lift, breast augmentation, or other procedures.

Why Choose Dr. Courtney For Brachioplasty?

Dr. Courtney is a dedicated, board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon who cares for his patient's safety, aesthetic goals, and general quality of life. He provides thoughtful consultation and develops a customized surgical plan for each patient. Dr. Courtney works to ensure patients are satisfied with their results and experience a better quality of life after their procedure. If you want to learn more about Brachioplasty with Dr. Courtney, please contact us today to schedule your personal consultation.

Dr. Courtney Plastic Surgery

Real People. Real Results.

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