Arm Lift
Procedure
PROCEDURE OVERVIEW
*Content provided by the American Society of Plastic Surgery (ASPS)
WHAT IS AN ARM LIFT?
Fluctuations in weight, growing older, and heredity can cause your upper arms to have a drooping, sagging appearance. This is a condition that cannot be corrected through exercise. If the underside of your upper arms are sagging or appear loose and full due to excess skin and fat, an arm lift may be right for you
An arm lift, or brachioplasty, is a surgical procedure that:
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Reduces excess sagging skin that droops downward
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Tightens and smooths the underlying supportive tissue that defines the shape of the upper arm
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Reduces localized pockets of fat in the upper arm region
In general, candidates for an arm lift include:
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Adults with significant upper-arm skin laxity
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Adults of any age whose weight is relatively stable and who are not significantly overweight
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Healthy individuals without medical conditions that impair healing or increase risk of surgery
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Non-smokers
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Individuals with a positive outlook and realistic expectations.
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THE PROCEDURE:
Anesthesia:
Medications are administered for your comfort during the surgical procedures. The choices include intravenous sedation and general anesthesia. Your doctor will recommend the best choice for you.
The Incision:
Incision length and pattern depend on the amount and location of excess skin to be removed, as well as the best judgment of your plastic surgeon. Incisions are generally placed on the inside of the arm or on the back of the arm, depending on the surgeon’s preference, and may extend from the underarm (axilla) to just above the elbow. Excess fat may be directly excised or treated with liposuction.
Depending on your specific condition, incisions may be more limited. Then, underlying supportive tissue is tightened and reshaped with internal sutures. Finally, the skin is smoothed over the new contour of your arm.
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Inner Arm Incision
Back of Arm Incision
Minimal Incision
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Click here to read more about procedure safety information.
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