Have you ever noticed someone give a half-hearted wave, so subtle and lifeless that it almost seemed accidental? While there could be many reasons for such a gesture, one common cause is self-consciousness about sagging or flabby upper arms—sometimes referred to as “bat wings.”
These loose areas of skin are notoriously resistant to even the most dedicated diet and exercise routines. In fact, many people find that even after significant weight loss, the excess skin on their upper arms remains.
Fortunately, there is a solution for people with this concern: the upper arm lift.
What Is the Upper Arm Lift?
The upper arm lift is a procedure that tightens up loose skin in the upper arms. This results in a tighter, firmer, and rejuvenated look. This is mostly beneficial to anyone who has flabbiness in the upper arms caused by the extra skin and fat in the area.
When this procedure is done, it improves the overall appearance of the upper body area, and can actually make arm movement easier, and allow for more functionality.
The Upper Arm Lift Procedure
As with most procedures, the upper arm lift begins with an initial consultation with the surgeon. This is when the surgeon looks at the patient’s medical history, and discusses the changes desired. The surgeon says if it is realistically possible or not. He/she also describes the actual process, and explains the possible risks, and once the patient is agreeable to all the terms, the surgery can be set.
To some, a pre-surgery preparation might be needed, which gives a set of rules regarding diet, intake medication, and others, before the surgery actually takes place.
On the day of the upper arm lift, the doctor marks the area of the arms with the excess skin. Then, the patient is given either a local or general anesthesia. The surgeon then makes incisions that can run from the armpit to the elbow, usually located on the inner area of the arm.
Excess skin is then removed, along with excess fat, which is suctioned off the arm. Excess fluid is drained in order to facilitate proper adhering of the skin to the tissue. Once finished, the remaining skin is stretched, and secured in place using sutures. Bandages are placed over the incisions, and the procedure is complete.
The whole procedure usually takes just 1 to 2 hours, depending on amount of work needed. There is no need to stay in after, and patients are able to go home on the same day.
Who Should Consider an Upper Arm Lift?
Ideal candidates for an upper arm lift, also known as brachioplasty, are individuals who are in good overall health but struggle with loose or sagging skin on their upper arms.
This often includes people who have lost a significant amount of weight or are experiencing age-related skin laxity.
If you have been frustrated by your arms’ appearance despite regular diet and exercise, this procedure can provide dramatic improvement. It’s important for patients to maintain a stable weight before and after surgery for the best long-term results.
Combining Arm Lift Surgery With Other Procedures
Many patients choose to combine an arm lift with other body contouring procedures such as a tummy tuck, thigh lift, or liposuction for a more comprehensive transformation.
This is particularly popular among individuals who have undergone major weight loss and want to address multiple areas with excess skin.
Combining procedures can be cost-effective and may also reduce overall recovery time compared to doing each surgery separately. Be sure to discuss all your cosmetic goals with your surgeon to create a personalized treatment plan.
Possible Risks, Complications, and Recovery time
Infection and bleeding are two of the most common complications for upper arm lifts procedure. Great care should be taken in following the surgeon’s instructions and precautions to prevent this as much as possible.
Severe pain and swelling can also occur, which can be treated using ibuprofen. Aspirin is not advised for this, as it can cause more bleeding and bruising.
Scarring will occur as well, and if not done right, the arms could have an asymmetrical look, so be sure to get the proper surgeon for this procedure.
Recovery time can be between 2 weeks to 1 month.