An arm lift, also known as brachioplasty, is a surgical procedure to remove loose skin and excess fat deposits in the upper arm.

If You’re Considering Brachioplasty…

An arm lift, also known as brachioplasty, is a surgical procedure to remove loose skin and excess fat deposits in the upper arm.

The aging process or significant changes in body weight can leave a person with sagging upper arms and excess skin. There are two variations of the procedure, with the primary difference being the length of incision. 

The shorter scar variation removes vertical excess skin and is frequently combined with liposuction to more effectively hide a scar. 

The longer incision variation is used when there is a circumferential excess of skin which can accompany significant weight loss. 

Many patients with only mild degrees of skin laxity may be treated with liposuction rather than an incisional approach. 

If you want to tighten the skin of this area, ask Dr. Anigian about brachioplasty. He may suggest that liposuction be used alone or in conjunction with removal of skin to tighten this area and provide slimmer arms. 

Planning the Surgery

Once your surgery is scheduled you will be required to come in for a pre-operative appointment. You will be given specific instructions on how to prepare for surgery, including guidelines on eating and drinking, smoking, and taking or avoiding certain vitamins and medications. Carefully following these instructions will help your surgery go more smoothly. If you smoke, it's especially important to stop at least two weeks before and four weeks after surgery; smoking inhibits blood flow to the skin, and can interfere with the healing of your incision areas.

After the Surgery

Healing is a gradual process. You will begin to feel better after a few days and you should be back at work within four to five days following your surgery. The stitches are removed or will dissolve on their own within the first week to 10 days. Post-operative massage therapy is strongly recommended with your first session being five to seven days post surgery.

Avoid strenuous activity for at least one month as your body continues to heal. Although most of the bruising and swelling usually disappears within three weeks, some swelling may remain for six months or more.