Arm Lift Surgery (Brachioplasty)

The skin under our arms can sag and lose its elasticity over time, or as a result of drastic weight changes. Often this sagging skin is stubborn and cannot be improved through simple exercise. Patients who have noticed sagging skin under their arms may want to consider a brachioplasty or arm lift to achieve a toned and firm appearance.

A brachioplasty targets the excess skin in the area between the patient’s underarm and elbows. While an arm lift does improve the overall appearance of your arm, it is important to note that this procedure is not a weight-loss treatment. Brachioplasty can be performed in combination with liposuction to remove excess fat and to help achieve a more toned arm contour.

How does Brachioplasty surgery work?

Brachioplasty, or arm lift surgery, can be performed under general anesthesia or through intravenous sedation. Experienced cosmetic surgeon Dr. Ali Totonchi will begin the procedure by making an incision from the armpit running along the arm up to the patient’s elbow. The length of the incision will depend largely on the amount of excess skin and tissue that will be removed. The incisions will be made along the medial area of the arm to make it less conspicuous.

If you have excess fat in the arm area, Dr. Totonchi may include the removal of the excess fat tissues either through liposuction or excision during your surgery. The skin will be pulled tightly and the excess skin will be removed. The underlying muscles in your arm will be repaired if necessary, using sutures to reshape it and to provide additional support. The brachioplasty will be completed by closing the incisions using sutures and drains will be temporarily inserted into your arm to prevent the accumulation of body fluids. The brachioplasty procedure is completed in 2 to 3 hours and is performed on an outpatient basis in our office in Cleveland, Ohio.

What should I expect during recovery from brachioplasty surgery?

Patients will find that the recovery from a brachioplasty procedure is faster and easier than many other cosmetic surgical procedures as this only affects the skin and not the arm muscles. The results of a brachioplasty are immediate and patients can appreciate the results right after the procedure. A week or two after the brachioplasty, you will be asked to come back to have your sutures and drains removed. Patients will be asked to wear compression garments for about 6 weeks after the brachioplasty to help maintain the results and manage the swelling. It is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle and exercise regularly after a brachioplasty procedure to ensure that the toned and smooth new contour of your arms is long-lasting.

Are there any risks associated with arm lift surgery?

An arm lift is a surgical procedure, and therefore risks are always involved. Potential risks associated with an arm lift include pain, swelling, irregular contours, skin or nerve damage, infection, blood clots, fluid accumulation, scarring, bleeding, or asymmetry. Complications are rare and will be carefully managed by Dr. Totonchi and his care team.

Zeeba Clinic and Medspa Consultation in Cleveland, OH

Are you interested in learning more? We invite you to schedule an appointment with us at Zeeba Clinic and Medspa. When you have a consultation, we’ll talk about your aesthetic goals and help you decide which type of treatment is right for you. Contact us today to get started!

What Are the Benefits of Arm Lift Surgery?

Arm lift surgery, or brachioplasty, offers significant aesthetic improvements by addressing sagging skin and excess fat in the upper arms. This procedure can restore a more toned and proportionate appearance, boosting self-confidence and allowing patients to feel more comfortable wearing a wider range of clothing.

The primary benefits include a smoother contour of the arms, the removal of loose skin that can result from significant weight loss or aging, and an overall enhancement of the arm's shape. It's important to understand that brachioplasty is a body contouring procedure, not a weight-loss solution, and is best suited for individuals who are at or near their ideal body weight.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Arm Lift Surgery?

Ideal candidates for arm lift surgery are individuals who are bothered by excess, sagging skin and fat in their upper arms that cannot be effectively addressed through diet and exercise alone. Generally, patients should be in good overall health, have realistic expectations about the outcomes of the procedure, and be non-smokers or willing to quit before and after surgery.

Good candidates typically have stable weight and understand that the results are long-lasting but can be affected by future significant weight fluctuations. A thorough consultation with Dr. Guyuron is essential to determine individual suitability, discuss aesthetic goals, and assess the specific condition of the arms to recommend the most appropriate surgical approach.

What Are the Different Types of Arm Lift Procedures?

Arm lift surgery, or brachioplasty, can involve different techniques depending on the amount and location of excess skin and fat. The most common approach is the traditional arm lift, which involves an incision along the underside of the upper arm, extending from the armpit to the elbow. This allows for the removal of significant amounts of skin and fat.

For individuals with less severe sagging or primarily excess fat, liposuction may be used alone or in conjunction with a limited incision arm lift. In cases of extreme skin laxity, a more extensive procedure might be necessary. Dr. Guyuron will assess your specific needs during a consultation to determine the most effective surgical method for achieving your desired results.

How Can I Prepare for Arm Lift Surgery?

Preparing for arm lift surgery involves several key steps to ensure a safe and smooth procedure and recovery. It's crucial to have a detailed consultation with Dr. Bahman Guyuron to discuss your medical history, current medications, and aesthetic goals. You will receive specific pre-operative instructions, which may include discontinuing certain medications like aspirin or anti-inflammatory drugs, avoiding smoking, and arranging for transportation home after the surgery.

Proper preparation also extends to your recovery period. You'll need to have comfortable clothing that doesn't constrict your arms, and it's advisable to have someone stay with you for the first 24-48 hours to assist with daily tasks. Stocking up on necessary supplies, such as prescribed pain medication and bandages, will also help ensure a more comfortable healing process.