An upper arm lift, also called brachioplasty, is a procedure designed to tighten the skin of the upper arm to give a more toned appearance. Loose and hanging upper arm skin can be an embarrassment especially in sleeveless clothing. The skin of the upper arm loses its elasticity as part of the normal aging process. Unfortunately, no amount of arm exercises or weight loss will completely reverse this process. In people who have lost a significant amount of weight this process can be seen even earlier in life.
Arm Lift Consultation
Two decisions have to be made in planning for this surgery. The first decision is whether or not liposuction is necessary? As part of his brachioplasty procedure, Dr. Hubbard often performs liposuction first, then removes the excess skin. In patients with upper arm fullness and skin laxity, this allows for more skin removal and greater improvement in contour. The second and most important decision concerns scar length and scar placement. Unlike many cosmetic surgeries, there is no place to hide a scar on your arm. There are many less obvious locations to put the scar and some patients may be well served by a “short scar” arm lift, but in the end, arm lift surgery is a trade of improved contour for a scar.
Arm Lift Surgery & Recovery
Arm lift surgery can be performed under sedation or general anesthesia depending on the degree of skin excess and patient preference. The procedure lasts approximately 2 hours, and afterword patient can return home the same day. If liposuction is performed, a drain is left in place for approximately one week. No stitches will have to be removed, as only absorbable suture material is used.
Swelling and bruising are common after surgery, but resolve quickly within two weeks. Patients are fitted with compressive garments to help reduce swelling and increase the rate of recovery. Heavily lifting and repetitive arm exercise should be limited in the first month following surgery.
Trading a scar for thin, a toned arm is a personal decision only you can make. This decision is not always an easy one to make. Even if undecided, Dr. Hubbard would be happy to help you determine if your goals and expectations match what an arm lift procedure can provide.
During your consultation Dr. Hubbard will discuss with you your goals and expectations and determine if this is the right procedure for you. To schedule your private consultation with Dr. Hubbard please email our office or call directly at 214.370.4813.