I love my new abdomen. After years of having so much loose skin and fat from childbirth x2, I was ready for it to go. Dr. Leedy and his team did an amazing job, I am forever grateful. I had a Tummy tuck with lipo.
If you feel hesitant to wear short-sleeved tops because your upper arms could be commonly described as “bat wings” then you may be a great candidate for an arm lift procedure. An arm lift, or brachioplasty, is a surgery that removes excess fat and loose skin from your underarms.
At the Cleveland Plastic Surgery Institute, we believe in empowering our patients with education. Call the office or use the online form today to take the next step in your arm lift journey at the Cleveland Plastic Surgery Institute.
What is an arm lift?
Brachioplasty is the term used to describe an arm lift procedure. This surgery is performed on an outpatient basis, usually under general anesthesia. If your procedure is more on the conservative side, using a local anesthetic and IV sedation may be considered. Your comfort and safety are our top priorities. The arm lift procedure can take between two and four hours, after which you’ll be able to go home and begin recovery.
Is Liposuction a part of an arm lift procedure?
No, it is not a standard part of an arm lift procedure. However, there are cases in which there is a small amount of fat also present at the backs of the arms. This tissue could be intensifying the abnormal contour and sagging in this specific area of the body. Depending on your case, the value of liposuction may be discussed as an extra support procedure performed at the same time as your arm lift.
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The most frequently asked questions about arm lift
Your arm lift procedure will be tailored to your specific needs and depends on the amount of excess tissue you have. During your consultation, the backs of your arms will be examined and the tissue will be pulled taut to determine how much removal may be necessary.
This is done by removing an ellipse of tissue between the armpit and the chest area. You will know all of the details about your procedure by the end of your consultation, including how much tissue is expected to be removed and how long your incisions will need to be in order to achieve the best results.
Scarring is an inevitable part of having incisions made on any part of your body. Brachioplasty incisions are usually made on the inside of the arm, where resulting scars cannot be seen when your arms are at your sides. Scars will only be visible when you raise your arms overhead. It can take up to one year for your surgical scars to fully mature. After a few months, the skin should begin to flatten and lighten gradually. When you visit for your follow up, you can discuss how you can promote optimal tissue remodeling to further lighten your arm lift scars.
Your recovery may be influenced by numerous factors including your
- Age
- Medical history
- And even your occupation
Generally, the bulk of the heavy recovery happens in the first two weeks after the procedure. You can expect moderate pain to last for three to four days after your surgery. Prescription pain medication can significantly improve your comfort. Since your arms will be bandaged and you’ll need to protect your incisions, your range of motion will be limited for about a week.
You will not be able to lift heavy objects and should not reach overhead for any reason. It’s ideal to have someone who can stay with you to assist you as needed. Certain activity restrictions may last up to six weeks after your arm lift procedure, but you can expect to start walking for five minute periods starting the day of surgery.
Your arm mobility and comfort may improve noticeably during your second and third week of recovery, but it remains important not to overreach or strain the arms in a way that can prolong your healing.
Results from brachioplasty are permanent, so you shouldn’t experience significant tissue sagging again in the future. Your arm contours should always be better than they were before your lift. That being said, your skin’s elasticity will likely change with age, which can lead to some minor sagging and wrinkling.
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