Most people are well aware of this problem: flabby, lax tissue that accumulates along the upper arm. Frequently referred to as ‘bingo wings’ or ‘bat wings’, this loose skin can affect any age or body type. Hereditary conditions, along with the normal aging process, will contribute to the development of unsightly arm tissue. Patients who have experienced a dramatic weight loss, such as after a gastric bypass, are particular prone to shapeless tissue along the upper arms.
Those who deal with this loss of tissue elasticity often feel embarrassed and self-conscious. Clothing may no longer fit well; shirts can be too tight and sleeveless tops will seem unattractive. Unfortunately, exercise and diet can do little to erase the stubborn fatty deposits and stretched skin of the upper arm. A surgical intervention is necessary to restore youthful, trim arms.
The Arm Lift at Spalding Drive Plastic Surgery
An Arm Lift, or Brachioplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to reshape the soft, inner portion of the upper arm. The procedure can significantly improve both the arm’s shape and contour as it eliminates the lax, fatty tissue. A Brachioplasty will result in natural, shapely arms that can last for years to come.
The surgeons at Spalding Drive Plastic Surgery have been performing the Brachioplasty procedure for more than a decade. They are Board Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and have extensive training including a fellowship at the world renowned Cleveland Clinic with a variety of cutting-edge surgical techniques. They provide patients with the safest and most effective Brachioplasty available today.
The Ideal Candidate for an Arm Lift
Anyone frustrated with flaccid, hanging skin along the upper arm may benefit from a Brachioplasty. The ideal candidate will be in overall good health, have a clear understanding of the Arm Lift procedure, and hold realistic expectations for the surgical results. As smoking can cause delayed wound healing, it is mandatory that any Arm Lift patient be a nonsmoker or quit smoking. At the initial appointment, techniques for smoking cessation can be discussed.
The Arm Lift Consultation
An initial consultation will take place with the surgeons and experienced staff. At this time, they will take a medical history, review all current medications, explain the Arm Lift procedure in detail, and discuss any surgical risks. Then, to assist the patient in visualizing their results, the surgeons will show Before/After photos of previous Brachioplasty patients. If it is determined that the Arm Lift is be the right procedure for a patient’s unique physical situation, a personalized treatment plan will be created.
The Arm Lift Procedure
The Arm Lift procedure will be performed on an outpatient basis, at the accredited Beverly Hills Doctors Surgery Center. Either general anesthesia or local anesthesia with IV sedation will be employed. The Brachioplasty procedure will take between two to four hours to complete.
To begin, the surgeon will make a lateral incision along the inner portion of the upper arm, from the armpit to the elbow. The pattern and length will depend on the level of correction required.
From here, the surgeon will excise unwanted fatty tissue and skin, reshaping the upper arm. Finally, he will tighten the remaining tissues, and place dissolvable stitches for proper healing. For optimal physical rejuvenation, the Brachioplasty can be combined with other procedures such as the Body Lift or Breast Lift. Liposuction can also provide excellent results, when paired with the Arm Lift. When used alone, Liposuction can rid the upper arm of fatty deposits, although it does not address the remaining excess skin.
Recovery from the Brachioplasty Procedure
Patients should expect the recovery after a Brachioplasty to take between one and two weeks. Initially, mild bruising and swelling may occur. Slight discomfort and tenderness is also common; necessary pain medications will be prescribed to keep patients comfortable during their recovery period. Most people are able to return to work in one to two weeks. Strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should be postponed for six weeks.
Risks and Potential Complications from an Arm Lift
The Brachioplasty is considered a safe and effective procedure when performed by an experienced plastic surgeon in Beverly Hills. It is a surgical procedure, however, so there is some chance for complications to occur. The potential risks from an Arm Lift include bleeding, scarring, infection, loss of sensation, and asymmetry. To avoid these problems after a Brachioplasty, patients should only place their trust in a well-trained, reputable physician.
Arm Lift FAQ
An Arm Lift, also referred to as a Brachioplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to improve the appearance of the upper arm by removing unsightly lax skin and tissue. The procedure results in a natural, slender arm.
The incision for an Arm Lift will run from the elbow to the axilla. Sometimes these incisions may be extended onto the lateral chest to tighten up excess skin.
The Arm Lift will take between two to four hours to complete, depending on the extent of correction required.
Patients are normally feeling well enough to return to work one to two weeks after their Arm Lift.
Anyone frustrated with the stubborn, loose tissue along the upper arm. The ideal Arm Lift candidate will be in overall good health, will understand the procedure, and hold realistic expectations for the procedure.
Yes, the Arm Lift does leave a visible scar. This will fade over time and can be concealed under some clothing.
The Arm Lift will be performed at an outpatient procedure, performed at the accredited Spalding Plastic Surgery Facility, Beverly Hills Doctors Surgery Center in beautiful Beverly Hills.
The Arm Lift is considered an extremely safe procedure, when performed by an experienced surgeon. However, as an invasive procedure, there is always the chance for complications to occur; these can include excessive bleeding, infection, poor wound healing, and a loss of sensation.
The surgeon will begin by making an incision on the inner side of the upper arm, from the axilla (armpit area) to the elbow. He will then excise the unwanted skin and fatty deposits; tightening the remaining tissue and placing dissolvable stitches for proper healing.
Brachioplasty is performed under general anesthesia or with local anesthesia with IV sedation.
Minor swelling and bruising may be seen after the Arm Lift procedure. These will resolve over the first several weeks. Mild to moderate discomfort may be experienced, as well. The surgeons will prescribe the appropriate pain medications for a comfortable recovery.
Unfortunately, Liposuction alone cannot replace the benefits of an Arm Lift. While Liposuction can be very effective at removing localized fatty deposits along the upper arm, the technique does not address the remaining excess, loose skin. A Brachioplasty can restore a slender, taut, and attractive arm by excising these lax tissues.
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