Arm Lift Surgery
(Brachioplasty)
Clinics in East Grinstead, Maidstone, Sevenoaks, Caterham, Orpington and Oxted
Understanding Arm Lift Surgery (Brachioplasty)
An arm lift, also known as brachioplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to remove loose skin from the upper arms. This procedure is particularly effective for individuals with moderate to severe sagging, where non-surgical treatments, like radiofrequency skin tightening, may not be sufficient. While these non-invasive options can address mild sagging in patients with good skin elasticity, surgery is generally necessary to tackle significant skin laxity.
Arm Lift Surgery (Brachioplasty)
During a brachioplasty, an incision is made along the inner arm, usually stretching from the armpit down to the elbow. This incision is placed in a way that minimizes visibility, often lying flat along the inner part of the arm. The surgeon removes excess skin in a tapered, elliptical shape. Arm lifts are commonly paired with liposuction to further enhance contouring by removing unwanted fat, resulting in a more sculpted and defined upper arm.
Advantages of an Arm Lift
Arm lift surgery provides several aesthetic benefits by removing sagging skin and reducing fat in the upper arm area. Patients can expect the following improvements:
- Firmer and tighter upper arms
- Better muscle definition
- Enhanced arm contours
In many cases, liposuction is performed alongside skin removal to reduce fat and highlight the underlying muscle, giving the arms a slimmer, more athletic look.
Arm Lift Surgery Techniques
1. Arm Liposuction with Skin Removal
This approach combines liposuction to remove fat around the arms and adjacent areas, such as the armpit and upper back, with an arm lift incision from the armpit to the elbow. This comprehensive method helps create a more toned and tightened arm appearance.
2. Mini Arm Lift (Minimal Incision Brachioplasty)
For patients with a smaller amount of sagging skin located near the upper arm, a mini arm lift can be effective. This technique requires a smaller incision hidden in the armpit, which subtly reshapes the upper arm without noticeable scars along the arm itself. However, this option offers limited skin removal compared to a full arm lift.
3. Full Arm Lift (Traditional Brachioplasty)
This is the standard arm lift technique, where a discreet incision is made along the inner arm, from the armpit to the elbow. This allows for extensive skin removal and is often paired with liposuction if there is significant fat to be addressed.
4. Liposuction-Only Arm Contouring
For those with good skin elasticity and only minor fat accumulation, liposuction alone can effectively contour the arms without needing skin excision. Tiny incisions near the armpit and elbow make this a minimally invasive option.
In Summary
An arm lift is an effective procedure for those seeking a tighter, more contoured appearance for their upper arms. With a variety of techniques available, patients can choose options that fit their aesthetic goals and comfort with potential scarring. To ensure the best results and a smooth recovery, consult with a qualified plastic surgeon who can guide you through your options and recommend the most suitable approach.
FAQs
Who is a Suitable Candidate for an Arm Lift?
The ideal candidates for an arm lift are individuals with excess skin, fat, or both on the upper arms who are in good health. Non-smokers with a stable weight and a BMI of less than 30 are generally preferred. However, those with a higher BMI may also qualify if their weight has remained stable.
Is Arm Lift Surgery Painful?
Most patients find arm lift surgery to be relatively low on the pain scale. During your consultation, your surgeon will discuss options for long-lasting numbing medications to keep discomfort to a minimum. Prescription pain relief is also available to manage any post-surgery soreness.
What is the Procedure Duration?
An arm lift procedure generally takes 1–2 hours, depending on the amount of skin and fat being removed.
Can Arm Lifts Be Combined with Other Procedures?
Yes, many patients choose to combine an arm lift with other body contouring surgeries, such as breast lifts, tummy tucks, or thigh lifts. This is especially common for individuals who have experienced significant weight loss, as it helps achieve a more balanced and comprehensive transformation.
Recovery After an Arm Lift?
The recovery period varies based on how much skin was removed. During the first week, patients may experience some pain, swelling, and bruising. Compression garments are recommended to help control swelling and support healing.
Most individuals can resume light daily activities within a week, although heavy lifting and strenuous exercise should be avoided initially. By the second week, driving and light exercise are typically permitted. Scars will initially appear red and slightly raised, but they usually fade and flatten over time.
What to Expect with Arm Lift Scars?
Initially, scars will appear red and raised, but over the next 6 to 12 months, they will soften, flatten, and fade to a faint line. Many surgeons offer scar care protocols, including the use of scar gel and massage, to promote optimal healing.
Arm Lift at a Glance
2.5 hours
Hospital stay
1 night
Time off work
1-2 weeks
Shower
1 week
Exercise
6 weeks
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