Arm lift surgery is designed to reshape the upper arms by removing excess fat and tissue. Technically known as brachioplasty, the procedure is commonly performed after a patient has achieved major weight loss.
When to Consider an Arm Lift
If you’re bothered by excess skin and fatty tissue around your arms, the arm lift may be right for you. This relatively common condition (often called “bat wings”) can make a person self-conscious about his/her appearance, especially when wearing sleeveless clothing.
The patient should be healthy, a non-smoker and willing to accept the visible scars left by arm lift surgery. In some cases, the scar can be greatly minimized or avoided with arm liposuction alone, without excision of loose skin. However, most patients are more likely to benefit from the full arm lift procedure.
Your Arm Lift: What to Expect
Brachioplasty is a relatively simple surgery. An incision is made from the armpit area toward the elbow. It can be done under local or general anesthesia. To enhance the aesthetic results, cosmetic surgeon Dr. Melanie Petro may also choose to perform liposuction on the arms and chest.
Excess, loose skin is tightened or removed to produce a slimmer upper arm. Sutures are then used to close the incisions and maintain the new shape.
What Happens After Arm Lift Surgery?
After your arm lift, the incisions will be wrapped in tape and gauze and a compression garment will be provided for you to wear during the recovery period.
The arms will need to stay elevated and your movement will be somewhat limited, so recovery can be tedious. It may take 2 to 4 weeks to fully recover and you should expect some swelling and bruising. Pain medications will be prescribed to help you manage the discomfort after your arm lift.
Arm Lift Birmingham
What questions do you have about arm lift surgery? Get answers during your consultation with Birmingham cosmetic surgeon Melanie L. Petro M.D. Contact us today to learn more about this procedure.
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