Brachioplasty (Arm Lift Surgery) in Dallas, TX
Arm Lift
Body Enhancements
Upper arm skin can become permanently overstretched and sag due to aging and lifestyle factors, especially weight fluctuations.
As the arm tissues loosen, they can become hanging “flaps” that swing with every arm movement. Unfortunately, diet and exercise cannot correct significant tissue and skin laxity on the arms, even with a rigorous weight lifting regimen.
People interested in attaining firmer, leaner, and more toned arm contours can benefit from a surgical procedure known as brachioplasty.
What Is Brachioplasty?
Brachioplasty (arm lift surgery or arm reduction) is a cosmetic surgery that reshapes the upper arms. It tightens the underlying arm tissues and eliminates excess skin and fat to achieve more youthful, toned arms.
What Can Arm Lift Surgery Do?
Remove Loose Arm Skin
Age, lifestyle factors, and weight loss can cause sagging skin to hang from the arms. This can be uncomfortable and unsightly.
Brachioplasty surgery removes excess skin on the arms. It eliminates these ‘bat wings’ and tightens the remaining skin for more taut upper arms.
Remove Excess Arm Fat
Fat deposits often develop on the upper arms that are difficult to spot reduce. This fat can hang from the arms and jiggle as you move or wave.
Arm surgery can remove this stubborn fat using liposuction surgery or excision techniques. After brachioplasty, you can enjoy leaner, smaller arms.
Create More Defined Arms
By removing excess tissue from the arms, arm lift surgery can better reveal your bicep and tricep muscles. Arm muscles that were previously camouflaged by skin and fat often look stronger and more defined.
Arm lift patients generally feel confident showing off their firmer arm contours in short or tight sleeves.
How Is an Arm Lift Performed?
Brachioplasty is usually performed under general anesthesia. Once your incisions are made, your plastic surgeon will tighten your loose skin and secure it over your muscles. If you want to remove excess fat on your upper arms, liposuction techniques or excision may be used. Excess skin is trimmed away.
There are three options for your arm lift incisions: limited, standard, and extended.
During your consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Morales at his Dallas office, he will discuss your needs and goals for your arm lift procedure and create a personalized surgical plan.
Schedule A ConsultationLimited-Incision Technique
With this arm lift technique, the incision is made within your armpit.
Limited-incision arm lifts can be performed if the excess skin is located higher up on the arms, close to the armpit. This technique is best for patients who also don’t have much excess fat in the upper arms.
The shorter incision usually results in a faster operation and quicker recovery.
Standard-Incision Technique
Standard arm lifts use an incision from the armpit to the elbow. The incision can be placed along the underside or back of the arm.
This incision that extends the length of your arm is the most common form of arm lift surgery.
Extended-Incision Technique
The extended incision is similar to the standard incision (from the armpit to the elbow), but it will also go down the side of your torso a few inches.
This is necessary if there is hanging skin along the side of the chest. Extended brachioplasty is generally needed for patients who have lost a significant amount of weight.
“I strive to give every patient the kind of care I’d want for my own family—honest, thoughtful, and always supportive.”
— Dr. David Morales
What to Expect After Brachioplasty
What Is Recovery Like After an Arm Lift?
Soreness and bruising are both common post-operative conditions. Any pain or discomfort can be treated with oral medication. These symptoms will likely subside after the first week. Swelling is also common during arm lift recovery and may not fully subside for a few months after the procedure.
After your surgery, you will need to wear compression garments on your arms for one to two weeks to aid in the healing process.
Patients usually return to work after three to seven days. More strenuous activity and exercise may be resumed after two to three weeks, but patients should refrain from lifting heavy objects for two to four weeks.
When Will I See My Arm Lift Results?
You should see your initial arm lift results within two to three weeks as swelling fades. Final results may take up to six months to become visible as your arm contours settle into place.
Will Arm Lift Surgery Leave Scars?
Yes, scars will occur around your incision sites. Your plastic surgeon will make incisions discreetly so your arm lift scars will be as unnoticeable as possible. All scars will fade with time.
Frequently Asked Questions About Brachioplasty
Arm Lift Procedure
How much is an arm lift?
The cost of your arm lift surgery will vary depending on the incision technique. Other factors affecting brachioplasty cost include the need for liposuction, anesthesia costs, and other associated fees.
Dr. Morales will provide you with a personalized quote during your consultation.
Am I a candidate for brachioplasty in Dallas, Texas?
If you struggle with excess skin in your upper arms that does not respond to diet and exercise, brachioplasty may be right for you. Ideal candidates will be in good health, have realistic expectations, and be clear about their desired results.
Before you undergo arm lift surgery, you should be at a stable weight you are comfortable with. Significant weight changes (gain or loss) after your arm lift can affect your results.
Many patients choose to undergo arm lift surgery after significant weight loss. As with any body contouring plastic surgery, patients should maintain a stable weight for at least six months before undergoing arm lift surgery.
How old do I have to be to undergo arm lift surgery?
There is no age restriction on brachioplasty. However, arm lift surgery is rarely necessary for minors. In cases where minors desire brachioplasty, parental permission is required.
How can I prepare for my arm lift?
To prepare for your arm lift, you should stop smoking and taking anti-inflammatory medications. You should also plan to take adequate time off work and other responsibilities.
How long does brachioplasty take to perform?
Generally, the procedure length is about one to two hours. This will depend on your incision length and whether liposuction is also used.
If you choose to add other procedures to your operation, this time will extend.
Can arm lift surgery be combined with any other procedures?
Yes. Arm lift surgery can be performed with other body contouring procedures. The most common combinations are thigh lift surgery and tummy tuck surgery. It can also be combined with a breast procedure in what is known as a Mommy Makeover operation.
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