An arm lift, or brachioplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to remove excess skin and fat from the upper arms while tightening the supportive tissue. Whether due to aging, significant weight loss, or genetics, many individuals notice the skin on their upper arms beginning to lose elasticity over time, resulting in a loose or sagging appearance sometimes referred to as “bat wings.” For those who feel self-conscious about this area, board-certified Wichita plastic surgeon James Shaw, MD can perform an arm lift to restore a firmer, more toned contour in the upper arms. This can not only improve comfort and help clothing fit more comfortably, but also refines the silhouette and achieves a more taut arm shape.
What are the Benefits of an Arm Lift?
Arm lift surgery can create a noticeable improvement in the shape of the upper arms, as sagging skin is removed and provides a smoother, more athletic silhouette. Following the procedure, men and women usually experience the following benefits:
- Sculpted, more defined arm shape
- Smoother, tighter contour in the upper arms
- Slimmer look in the treated areas
- Restored circumferential support for the arms
After an arm lift, many patients also find it easier to shop for clothing and exercise without self-consciousness. For those who were left with sagging skin after major weight loss, the procedure can also boost confidence and offers lasting improvement in the arm shape as long as patients maintain a stable weight. Depending on your concerns, a thigh lift and other skin tightening treatments, such as a tummy tuck, can be combined with an arm lift to provide comprehensive post-weight loss body contouring.
How is the Arm Lift Procedure Performed?
An arm lift is an outpatient surgery performed under general anesthesia. Extra fullness on the back part of the upper arm can often be addressed with liposuction alone. The skin in this area usually remodels and retracts very well. In some patients, there can be an excess of skin or damaged skin due to stretching. In this situation, skin removal will also be required.
If necessary, skin removal is then performed on the inner aspect of the upper arm by Dr. Shaw. The resulting scar begins near the armpit and extends nearly to the elbow. A scar in this area is not very noticeable, and patients find the trade-off between skin improvement and scar presence is well worth it.
Small skin excisions that keep the scar close to the armpit have been tried in the past, an approach often referred to as a “mini arm lift.” Very little skin can be removed with this mini arm lift approach and patients are typically not satisfied with the results, often returning for the full procedure.
What Can I Expect From Recovery After an Arm Lift?
After surgery, there is not a lot of discomfort and most daily activities can be resumed a day or two after surgery. Vigorous exercise and strenuous arm activity should be avoided for the first few weeks.
Compression garments are not required. In fact, placing compression around the upper arm will cause increased swelling in the hands and forearms. Elevation and avoiding compression will help the swelling to resolve more rapidly. Some patients are more comfortable wearing long-sleeved exercise shirts that have Lycra or Spandex in them. This is an option, but not a requirement.
Showers should begin the day after surgery, but soaking the incisions in a pool or tub should be avoided for the first month. Initially, the scars will be a little bit bumpy or uneven. This unevenness will smooth out over the first couple of months.
How Much Does an Arm Lift Cost?
The cost of an arm lift in Wichita varies depending on many factors, but generally offers a more affordable cost estimate when compared to other parts of the country. During a consultation, patients receive a personalized quote based on:
- The extent of correction necessary
- The technique(s) used
- Standard surgical costs such as surgeon’s fees, anesthesia, and facility costs, etc.
Patients considering the procedure should book a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon to receive a tailored cost estimate based on their individual anatomy and goals. Our practice also accepts plastic surgery financing through CareCredit® to help make arm lift surgery more accessible.
As a board-certified plastic surgeon with almost 30 years of experience achieving beautiful arm lift results, Dr. James Shaw can help you improve the appearance of your arms with lasting, authentic results complementary to your natural beauty. Please contact Shaw Plastic Surgery today for an initial consultation.
