An arm lift (medically termed a brachioplasty) is a body contouring plastic surgery procedure that can greatly enhance the aesthetic appearance of a patient's upper arms. During an arm lift, the excess fat and skin are removed from the upper arm area in order to create a firmer, more youthful, shaped arm. The natural aging process and significant weight loss can reduce the arms' natural firmness and shape. An arm lift is a safe and effective option for patients who are dissatisfied with the appearance and shape of their arms. An arm lift is appropriate for men and women whose weight loss and exercise efforts have not been able to provide the patient's desired aesthetic results.
If you are interested in an arm lift, you should speak with a qualified plastic surgeon to determine if this procedure is right for you. An arm lift procedure may not be appropriate for people with certain physical or medical conditions. Patients who have had mastectomy surgery, experience recurring armpit infections, or produce sweat excessively may be at greater risk for complications during arm lift surgery and, therefore, may not be good candidates for this procedure.
A good candidate for arm lift surgery is in good physical and emotional health and has a realistic understanding of the procedure and the recovery period. Brachioplasty patients will have a more positive experience with cosmetic surgery if they are fully informed about what to expect before, during and after brachioplasty surgery. As with all surgical procedures, arm lift surgery carries a low risk of complication that should be understood prior to surgery.
During an arm lift, the surgeon will make a zigzag incision in the upper arm area in the most inconspicuous location possible. Through this incision excess skin can be excised and fat can be extracted with a liposuction technique. When only excess fat is the culprit, arm lift surgery may only require liposuction. In this case, the incision may be smaller. While a patient may be left with a scar after arm lift surgery, most patients report that the scar is well worth the overall aesthetic improvements made through brachioplasty.
During the first two to six weeks of recovery after arm lift surgery, your surgeon may recommend the use of compression garments and pain medications to prevent complications and reduce any discomfort you may be experiencing. Drains and/or stitches may need to be removed after arm surgery, depending on the specific technique employed. After a couple weeks, most patients are able to return to work and resume normal daily activities will minimal restrictions.
Nationwide, the average cost of arm lift surgery is around $3,000 not including additional compulsory costs. While arm lift surgery is not usually covered by health insurance, most surgeons have payment options available to make arm lift surgery more financially feasible for patients. If you would like to learn more about arm lift surgery, please contact us to speak with a highly qualified and experienced plastic surgeon in your area.