Arm Lift

Personalized Arm Lift Plastic Surgery Procedures

After substantial weight loss or gain, skin on the upper arms can become inelastic, loose, and flabby. Arm lifts, also known as brachioplasty, remove that excess skin and fat. Patients with significant fat may also combine the procedure with liposuction. Somerset Plastic Surgery provides tailored arm lift procedures that prioritize patient safety and offer natural-looking results.

Understanding Arm Lifts

An arm lift is a surgical procedure that helps reshape the upper arm. A plastic surgeon performs the procedure while the patient is under anesthesia, and it typically takes place in an outpatient surgical center. Before the plastic surgery begins, the surgeon marks the arm to guide incision placement and determine how much tissue will be removed.

Incisions are made along the inner or back side of the upper arm; the length and pattern vary depending on how much excess skin the patient has. In certain cases, the incision may extend from the elbow toward the armpit. After the incisions are made, the plastic surgeon is able to access the underlying tissue. Excess skin is separated and removed, and in certain cases, excision or liposuction helps clear away localized fat deposits. The plastic surgeon then repositions and tightens the remaining skin over the arm before closing the incision with sutures.

Exploring the Benefits of Arm Lifts

A brachioplasty is designed to address changes in the upper arm when the skin loses elasticity due to age or weight gain and loss. One of the key benefits of this procedure is improved arm shape. After the excess skin is removed, the upper arm may appear more streamlined from shoulder to elbow. Another advantage is improved clothing fit; sleeves tend to sit more smoothly against the upper arm. Some patients also experienced increased ease of movement. When excess tissue is removed, there is less interference with natural arm motion. A few other benefits and outcomes of an arm lift include:

• A more defined upper arm contour
• Improved symmetry between both arms
• A smoother transition between the shoulder and elbow
• Reduced skin irritation where excess skin rubs together

Planning for Arm Lift Recovery

After the arm lift procedure, the plastic surgery team covers the area with dressings that will stay in place for a set period. The plastic surgeon may adjust or remove the dressings during follow-up visits. The incision areas need to be kept clean and dry, so swimming, showering, and activities that cause excessive sweating should be avoided. Patients should also plan ahead and arrange a ride from a family member or friend after the procedure, as they often experience fatigue or disorientation upon waking from anesthesia.

In the first few days, patients should limit arm movement. They need to keep the upper arms close to the body and avoid lifting anything that strains the incision sites. Small, controlled movements in the hands and elbows are often allowed, but larger motions are restricted. The plastic surgeon may also prescribe medications to help with swelling and discomfort. Over the course of a few weeks, bruising and swelling in the arms will subside.

Attending all follow-up appointments at the plastic surgery clinic is necessary. The appointments allow the doctor to identify any early signs of complications or adjust post-operative care. Proper care after the operation is key to achieving outcomes consistent with the patient’s goals and maintaining long-term results.

Evaluating Factors That Influence Candidacy

Determining whether a patient is a suitable candidate for an arm lift involves evaluating various physical characteristics. A plastic surgeon looks at the degree of skin laxity in the upper arms; when skin has lost its ability to retract after stretching, surgical removal may be the only solution to achieve more aesthetic results. Some patients only have loose skin, while others have a combination of excess skin and localized fat. This influences whether the procedure is combined with solutions like liposuction to provide a more toned look.

Overall body stability should be achieved before getting plastic surgery. Patients who have maintained a stable weight over time are better positioned for predictable surgical outcomes, as large fluctuations alter the long-term appearance of their upper arms. The plastic surgeon also reviews skin condition and texture. These characteristics influence how the arm responds to reshaping and where additional adjustments may be needed.

Collaborate With a Plastic Surgeon Today

Somerset Plastic Surgery offers the best lifts for arms, performed by qualified plastic surgeons. Our team tailors each treatment to the patient’s needs, allowing for a surgical plan that accounts for anatomy and desired results. Along with arm lifts, patients are able to get procedures like breast augmentations, facelifts, nose reshaping, and more. A consultation allows patients to discuss which procedure, or procedures, best suit their individual aesthetic or functional goals. Contact our team today to schedule an arm lift consultation.