Arm Lift

An arm lift, or brachioplasty, is a cosmetic surgery designed to reshape the upper arms by removing excess skin and fat. Many people are unhappy with the appearance of their arms and consider this procedure for effective, permanent improvements. Common reasons for wanting an arm lift include sagging skin due to aging or weight loss, excess skin following bariatric surgery, or simply a desire to have more attractive upper arms. An arm lift can be transformative, allowing patients to achieve the toned, sculpted arms they’ve always wanted.

At Plastic Surgeons of Lexington, our experienced and highly skilled surgeons use the latest techniques and technology to ensure optimal results and minimal scarring. We’ll work with you to understand your goals and create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs. Our state-of-the-art facilities and compassionate staff will provide the highest quality care and support throughout your arm lift journey. Whether you’re looking to regain your confidence after weight loss or simply want to enhance the appearance of your arms, we’re here to help you achieve your goals. Contact us today at (859)-276-3883 to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards a more confident, beautiful you.

Before and After Photos

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More About Arm Lift

Your arms are a defining feature that can make a powerful statement about your personality, style, and fitness level. However, as we age, experience weight changes, or have undergone bariatric surgery, the skin on our arms can begin to sag, losing its firmness and tone. This can lead to losing confidence and self-esteem, making us feel less comfortable wearing short-sleeved or sleeveless clothing and swimwear.

Enter the arm lift, a cosmetic surgery procedure that can remove excess skin and fat, tighten muscles, and improve the overall appearance of your upper arms. This procedure can be tailored to address your specific needs and goals:

An arm lift can help eliminate the dreaded “bat wings,” that loose skin that can jiggle when you wave or move your arms. By removing the excess tissue and tightening the remaining skin, an arm lift can restore your arms’ youthful and contoured appearance. With toned and sculpted upper arms, you can feel more confident and comfortable in your skin, allowing you to enjoy life’s activities without feeling self-conscious or embarrassed.

How Much Scarring Can Patients Expect with an Arm Lift?

One concern that patients often have when considering an arm lift procedure is scarring. It’s important to understand that any surgical procedure will leave some degree of scarring, and an arm lift is no exception. However, the extent of scarring can vary depending on several factors, such as the

At Plastic Surgeons of Lexington, we use advanced surgical techniques to minimize scarring and achieve the best possible aesthetic results. Our skilled surgeons carefully place incisions in inconspicuous areas along the inner arm or under the armpit to minimize visible scarring. We also provide patients with detailed post-operative care instructions to promote healing.

Most patients find that the benefits of an arm lift far outweigh the potential for scarring. The improved appearance and boost in self-confidence that comes with toned, defined arms can significantly impact a patient’s quality of life.

If you’re ready to transform your arms and regain confidence, contact us today to schedule a consultation. Let us help you achieve the toned and sculpted arms you desire!

What are the Benefits of an Arm Lift?

Are you tired of feeling self-conscious about your arms? Do you avoid wearing sleeveless tops or dresses because you’re embarrassed about the appearance of your upper arms? If so, an arm lift may be just what you need to regain your confidence and feel great about showing off your arms.

Our skin can lose elasticity and sag as we age or experience weight fluctuations. This can be particularly noticeable on the upper arms, where excess skin can create the appearance of “bat wings.” An arm lift can remove this excess skin and create a smaller arm with improved muscle tone.

By improving the appearance of your arms, you can feel more comfortable and confident wearing short-sleeved or sleeveless clothing and be proud to show off your arms in any setting. Improved confidence and self-esteem can have a significant positive impact on your overall quality of life. You may enjoy social activities more, feel more comfortable at the gym, or simply feel happier and more content in your everyday life.

At Plastic Surgeons of Lexington, we understand the life-changing benefits that an arm lift can provide. Our experienced and compassionate team is dedicated to helping our patients achieve their desired results, and we’re committed to providing personalized care every step of the way. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how an arm lift can help you.

Ideal Candidates

If you’ve lost significant weight or simply have excess skin due to aging, an arm lift can help permanently remove the excess skin. Post-obese individuals often have more than just aesthetic concerns. Their primary complaints center around vital functions and their impact on daily life. An arm lift can alleviate some of these concerns by improving the arms’ appearance, increasing mobility, and reducing discomfort.

An arm lift can also boost self-confidence and improve the overall quality of life of our Lexington, KY, patients. Like any surgical procedure, an arm lift requires general anesthesia and carries some risks. Therefore, you must be in good overall health before undergoing the procedure. Furthermore, an arm lift can improve the appearance of your arms, but it’s important to have realistic expectations about what the surgery can and cannot do.

The best way to understand how an arm lift can change the look of your upper arm is with a consultation appointment. Call (859)-276-3883 to speak with our scheduling coordinator today!

Personal Consultation

A consultation appointment for arm lift surgery is an important step in deciding whether to undergo this procedure. During the appointment, you will meet with one of our qualified board-certified plastic surgeons to discuss your goals and concerns, learn about the procedure, and ask any questions.

You will be asked to provide a detailed medical history, including any pre-existing medical conditions or medications you take. This information will help the plastic surgeon determine if you are a good candidate for the arm lift procedure and if there are any potential risks or complications to be aware of.

Next, the plastic surgeon will examine your arms to assess the amount of excess skin, fat, and muscle that will need to be removed or tightened during the surgery. They may also take measurements and photos to reference during the planning process.

After the physical examination, the plastic surgeon will discuss the arm lift procedure in detail, including the type of anesthesia used, the incision locations, and the expected recovery time. They will also explain the potential risks and complications associated with the procedure and any limitations or restrictions you may need to follow during the recovery period.

This is also a good time to ask questions about the procedure, such as how long the results will last, what kind of scarring to expect, and whether additional procedures may be recommended to achieve your desired results.

Finally, the plastic surgeon will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that considers your goals, concerns, and medical history. They may also provide you with before-and-after photos of previous arm lift patients to help you visualize your results. Ready to get started? Reach out today!

Preparation

Preparing for surgery is simply setting yourself up for a successful recovery. Here are some tips to get you started; we will supply you with a complete list of preparation tips leading up to your surgery date.

Eat Well

Before surgery, ensure you’re getting plenty of leafy greens, protein, and hydrating with water. These nutrients can help reduce inflammation and promote healthy blood flow, which is critical for healing.

Get Moving

Exercise can help improve circulation and reduce the risk of complications, so try to get some light exercise leading up to the surgery. Walking, swimming, or yoga can be great options for getting your body moving without putting too much strain on it.

Medications

Following your doctor’s instructions carefully is important if you’re taking any medications leading up to surgery. Don’t stop taking prescribed medications without consulting your healthcare provider, and avoid taking new medications or supplements without their approval.

Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions

Don’t hesitate to ask your healthcare team if you have any concerns or questions leading up to the surgery. We’re here to support you every step of the way, and we want to ensure you feel fully informed and prepared.

Take Care of Your Mind and Spirit

Surgery can be a stressful experience, so it’s important to take care of your mental and emotional health before the procedure. Consider practicing meditation or mindfulness techniques, spending time with loved ones, or engaging in creative activities like art or music to help reduce stress and promote relaxation.

Get Organized

Stay organized and prepared in the days leading up to your surgery. Create a checklist of things you must do before surgery, such as packing your hospital bag, arranging transportation, and making arrangements for pets or children. Having a clear plan can help reduce stress and ensure you are fully prepared for the big day.

These tips can prepare you for a successful surgery and a speedy recovery. Remember to trust in your healthcare team and stay positive throughout the process, knowing that you are in good hands!

The Arm Lift Procedure

For brachioplasty, new techniques have recently emerged. These new techniques offer different approaches, including resection, liposuction, or combining both. Newer techniques like the short-scar brachioplasty have been introduced, a less invasive option. Additionally, the L-brachioplasty technique can address excess tissue in the arms, axilla (the space below the shoulder), and lateral chest. ^[1]

Liposuction Patients with good skin firmness and elasticity in the upper arm may be good candidates for liposuction as it can help remove excess fat deposits that may have accumulated in the area. ^[2] Liposuction involves making small incisions and using a thin cannula to suction away the fat. It can benefit patients our surgeons believe will see the skin conform to the new contours.

Short-Scar Brachioplasty

During this procedure, the surgeon will make a small incision in the armpit and remove excess skin and fat through this incision. This approach allows for more precise tissue removal while minimizing scarring and reducing the risk of complications. Our surgeons may combine liposuction to contour the arm further.

Posterior Scar Technique

During this method, an incision is made on the back of the upper arm, and excess skin and tissue are removed. The incision is then closed with sutures or surgical tape, resulting in a scar on the back of the arm. The technique is often used when a significant amount of excess skin needs to be removed from the upper arm.

In most cases, the scar is completely invisible from the patient’s front and side but partially visible from the patient’s back. In one study, a high percentage, 88.8% of patients, expressed their satisfaction and found that they could tolerate the scar. ^[3]

L-Brachioplasty

During this method, the surgeon will remove excess skin and tissue from the upper arm and chest areas while also reshaping the underlying muscle and tissue to create a more toned and contoured appearance. The incision is designed to minimize scarring and can be placed to be hidden under clothing.

Recovery After Arm Lift

The recovery process after arm lift surgery is a crucial time when your body heals and adjusts to its new shape. Although it’s natural to be eager to see the final results of your procedure, it’s important to be patient and give yourself plenty of time to heal properly.

After the surgery, you must take some time off work and avoid strenuous activity for several weeks. Your surgeon will provide specific instructions on caring for your incisions and managing any discomfort you may experience.

You may need to wear compression garments to help reduce swelling and promote healing. These garments are designed to apply gentle pressure to the treated area, helping to prevent fluid buildup and promoting circulation.

While recovery can vary from patient to patient, most people can expect to see some initial swelling and bruising that will gradually improve over time. It’s important to follow your surgeon’s instructions carefully and attend all follow-up appointments to ensure your recovery is progressing.

What are the Results of Arm Lift Surgery?

Gone are the days of feeling self-conscious about excess skin or sagging in your upper arms. With your new, more streamlined look, you can confidently show off your arms in sleeveless shirts, dresses, and swimwear.

In addition to the aesthetic benefits, arm lift surgery can improve your overall quality of life. Many patients report feeling more comfortable and confident in their skin after the procedure. They may also find it easier to perform everyday activities, such as reaching or lifting objects, without the excess skin getting in the way.

What is the Cost of an Arm Lift in Lexington, KY?

Your surgeon will provide a detailed breakdown of the costs of your specific case during your initial consultation. This will include the surgeon’s fee, anesthesia fee, facility fee, and any other expenses associated with the surgery.

In some cases, health insurance may cover some or all of the cost of the procedure if it is deemed medically necessary, such as when excess skin interferes with daily activities. It’s important to check with your insurance provider to see if you qualify for coverage.

Call us at (859)-276-3883 to get started!

References

1. Bruschi S, Datta G, Bocchiotti MA, Boriani F, Obbialero FD, Fraccalvieri M. Limb Contouring after Massive Weight Loss: Functional Rather than Aesthetic Improvement. Obesity Surgery. 2008;19(4):407-411. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11695-008-9631-7
2. Teimourian B, Malekzadeh S. Rejuvenation of the Upper Arm. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. 1998;102(2):545-551. https://doi.org/10.1097/00006534-199808000-00041
3. Elkhatib H. Posterior Scar Brachioplasty with Fascial Suspension. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Global Open. 2013;1(6):e38. https://doi.org/10.1097/gox.0b013e3182a71465