Major weight loss can lead to extra skin around the arms that can be uncomfortable and unsightly. This can be frustrating, especially after putting in a lot of hard work to lose weight. An arm lift, or brachioplasty, is a cosmetic surgery procedure, designed to remove excess skin and fat in the arms. If you are considering an arm lift after major weight loss, it is important to understand all your options and the potential risks involved. Dr. Jack Peterson is a board-certified plastic surgeon and shares his expertise on the topic with you below.
What is an Arm Lift?
Brachioplasty, commonly referred to as an arm lift, is a surgical procedure used to reduce extra skin and fat in the upper arm. In an arm lift, an incision is made on the underside of the arm, stretching from the elbow to the armpit. The excess skin and fat are then trimmed and the remaining tissue is tightened and sutured. An arm lift can help improve the appearance and contour of the arms, in addition to reducing excess skin.
Who is a Candidate for an Arm Lift?
An arm lift is best suited for individuals who have had a significant amount of weight loss, and have noticed loose or sagging skin in the arm area. You should be in good overall health and have realistic expectations of the results. Additionally, it’s important to be at or near your ideal weight before considering an arm lift as it can be more difficult to remove the fat when the skin is not taut. Dr. Peterson will conduct a comprehensive physical exam and discuss your medical history, as well as your goals for the procedure, to determine whether an arm lift is the right course of action for you.
Types of Arm Lift Procedures
Dr. Peterson offers a customized approach for every patient. This includes a variety of arm lift techniques, tailored to meet your specific needs. The most common arm lift method involves an incision on the underside of the upper arm, but other variations are available, in some cases. For example, the problem may be primarily in the area near the armpit, so a smaller incision may be used. Some patients may be candidates for a minimally invasive procedure, which involves the use of a thin tube with a laser to heat and remove fat.
What to Expect Before, During, and After an Arm Lift
Prior to the procedure, Dr. Peterson will provide detailed instructions to ensure that your surgical experience goes smoothly. You may be asked to undergo certain medical tests, like a blood test and an electrocardiogram, prior to the procedure. In addition, you may be asked to stop taking certain medications, such as blood thinners, for a period of time before and after the procedure.
The arm lift procedure itself usually takes about 2-3 hours and is typically performed on an outpatient basis. During the procedure, you will be under general anesthesia, meaning that you will remain asleep and comfortable throughout the entire surgery. After the surgery, you can expect some bruising, swelling, and discomfort which can be managed with pain medication. Dr. Peterson will provide detailed aftercare instructions to ensure that you have a smooth recovery.
Benefits of an Arm Lift
An arm lift can provide a number of benefits, including an improved shape and contour in the arm area. It can also help to improve range of motion in the arm as well as reduce the excess skin that can be a source of discomfort and self-consciousness. In addition to the physical benefits, many patients find that an arm lift can provide a boost in confidence and self-esteem. When combined with maintaining a healthy lifestyle, an arm lift can help individuals achieve the results they are looking for.
Common Risks of an Arm Lift
While an arm lift is a safe and commonly performed cosmetic procedure, there are certain risks and potential complications that patients should be aware of. Some of the most common risks associated with an arm lift include: allergic reaction to anesthesia, infection, poor wound healing, asymmetry, and suture rupture. Dr. Peterson will provide a more complete list of potential risks and discuss them with you in detail during your consultation.
To conclude, if you have recently undergone a significant weight loss and are dealing with excess skin in the arm area, an arm lift procedure can help. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Jack Peterson offers a variety of arm lift techniques tailored to meet each patient’s individual needs. If you are considering an arm lift after major weight loss, it is important to discuss all your options and potential risks with a qualified and experienced professional like Dr. Peterson. With the right approach, an arm lift can help improve your appearance and boost your confidence.