Arm Lift
(Brachioplasty)
Fluctuations in weight, growing older, and even heredity can cause your upper arms to have a drooping, sagging, batwing-like appearance. While exercise may strengthen and improve the underlying muscle tone of the upper arm, it cannot address excess skin that has lost elasticity or underlying weakened tissues and localized fat deposits. 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.
- What Is Arm Lift Surgery?
- Arm Lift Surgery Candidates
- The Arm Lift Procedure
- Arm Lift Surgery Recovery
- Arm Lift Surgery Cost
What Is Arm Lift Surgery?
An arm lift can reduce excess skin and underlying fat that occurs between the underarm region and the elbow, reshaping the arm to result in smoother, tighter skin and more natural contours. Board-certified plastic surgeon Joseph DiBello, MD typically performs tumescent power-assisted liposuction in conjunction with the arm lift surgery to improve the overall result. An arm lift results in a more toned and proportionate appearance, enhancing your self-confidence and expanding your fashion choices. In order to achieve your improved image, there will be a scar on the inside of your upper arm.
Who Is a Candidate for Arm Lift Surgery?
Good candidates for the arm lift procedure are typically individuals who want to improve the appearance of loose, excess skin and stubborn fat deposits along the upper arm area. Candidates must be healthy enough for surgery and are ideally at a stable weight. You will need to schedule a consultation with Dr. DiBello in order for him to determine if you are a candidate for this procedure. During the appointment, he will also discuss what is involved in the surgery and the results you can expect to achieve. For certain patients, such as those who have lost significant amounts of weight, arm lift surgery may be combined with additional body contouring procedures to achieve more comprehensive enhancement of the physique.
How Is Arm Lift Surgery Performed?
Arm lift surgery is generally an outpatient procedure performed under general anesthesia at a local hospital. First, an incision is made along the inside of the upper arm, the length of which will be determined by the degree of enhancement your arm requires. Next, excess skin and fat are removed from the arm via excision. Dr. DiBello often uses liposuction techniques to further sculpt the contours of the arm for smoother, more natural-looking results. Once contouring is complete, the incision is carefully closed. The procedure is then repeated on the other arm. Dr. DiBello pays close attention to creating natural-looking symmetry among both arms. If you are undergoing other body contouring procedures, it’s possible that they may be performed during the same operation.
What Is Recovery After Arm Lift Surgery Like?
Following arm lift surgery you can expect to experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort. Medication, elevating the arms, and cold compresses can help alleviate swelling and pain while you recover. Compression garments may be worn around the arms to help aid in proper healing. It is important to attend all follow-up appointments with Dr. DiBello so that he can keep a close watch on your progress, as well as provide swift identification and treatment of potential complications. During your recovery, Dr. DiBello recommends taking time to rest and relax while your body heals. Vigorous activity and arm movements should be avoided for at least two weeks, and Dr. DiBello can let you know when you are approved to resume exercise. Visible scarring is to be expected after arm lift surgery; however, taking proper care of your healing incisions and protecting scar tissue from sun exposure can help minimize their appearance in the long run.
How Much Does an Arm Lift Cost?
At DiBello Plastic Surgery the average cost for arm lift surgery is approximately $6,400. Please note that this price range includes not only Dr. DiBello’s fee, but also the anesthesiology and hospital fees (including the operating room and pre-operative testing). The exact price for your surgery will depend upon the technique(s) used and the complexity of the procedure. To find out how much your arm lift would cost, a consultation with Dr. DiBello is required. After the appointment, an estimate will be calculated based on the customized surgical plan Dr. DiBello developed for you. If you have questions about pricing, surgery scheduling, and other topics, our knowledgeable office team can provide the answers you are looking for. Arm lifts are usually deemed cosmetic in nature and are therefore not covered by insurance.