Loose or hanging skin on the upper arms can remain even with regular exercise or a stable weight. Arm lift surgery, also called brachioplasty, removes excess skin and can reduce unwanted fat to create a smoother upper arm contour.
At Jeffrey C. Dawes, MD, FRCSC, Plastic and Dermatologic Surgery in Calgary, AB, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Jeffrey C. Dawes brings 17 years of post-secondary education and extensive aesthetic and reconstructive surgical training to body contouring procedures.
Restore Upper Arm Contours
Aging, weight fluctuations and genetics can sometimes lead to the drooping and sagging appearance of upper arms. Exercise may help strengthen and tone this area, but will not affect the lost elasticity, weakened tissue or localized fat deposits. Dr. Dawes can perform an arm lift to reduce excess skin and fat between the underarm and elbow. The result is smoother skin and contours, and a more toned and proportionate appearance of the arms. Not every brachioplasty is the same and prior to surgery, Dr. Dawes will review your goals for the procedure and demonstrate the expected change in arm contour. The scar that results from an arm lift is strategically positioned along the inside of the arm where it is relatively less visible. The length of a brachioplasty scar is determined by the location and severity of skin excess.
Is Arm Lift Surgery Right For Me?
The best candidate for brachioplasty is the patient at the extremes- either with generally good arms with some looseness, or someone with very loose skin. If the skin excess is located close to the armpit (axilla), the operation can require only a scar in the armpit that is well hidden. If you have dramatic skin laxity that bothers you, you may require a brachioplasty which will leave a scar running to the elbow. This will allow you comfort and an improved contour.
As with other cosmetic procedures, arm lift surgery is a personal decision. It should be done only to help you feel positive about your appearance rather than to fit a particular image or ideal. Brachioplasty may be combined with liposuction if a reduction in arm size is also desired. During your consultation, Dr. Dawes will help you determine the best surgical options to achieve your arm goals.
Good candidates for arm lift surgery are individuals who:
- Have considerable upper arm skin laxity
- Are not significantly overweight and maintain a stable weight
- Are healthy, with no underlying medical conditions or illness which may impair healing
- Are non-smokers
How Arm Lift Surgery is Performed
An arm lift reduces excess sagging skin, helps smooth underlying tissue, and reduces localized pockets of fat. During this procedure, Dr. Dawes makes an incision on the inside surface of the arm. Internal sutures are used to tighten and reshape the underlying and supportive tissue.
The length and pattern of the incision vary, depending on the amount and location of the excess skin. Incisions are closed with absorbable sutures or stitches that are removed within one to two weeks.
Recovery Expectations
You can expect moderately severe pain, which should gradually improve over 3-4 days and should be relieved with medication. Swelling usually subsides after 3 weeks, but can occasionally persist longer. You can expect bruising around the incisions. It will be worst 3-4 days post-op and may persist for up to 3-4 weeks. While still subject to the aging process, the results of arm lift surgery can be long lasting, assuming that a stable weight and general fitness are maintained.
Post-Surgery Recovery Tips and Care
Following your post-operative instructions can support healing and help protect your incisions during the first several weeks after arm lift surgery. Your instructions may vary depending on the extent of your procedure, but recovery care commonly includes:
- Wear your compression garment: Dr. Dawes may have you wear a compression garment to support the treated area and help control swelling. The current page confirms that a garment is provided immediately after surgery.
- Keep your arms elevated: Raising your arms as directed can help reduce swelling and bruising during early recovery.
- Follow incision-care instructions: Keep your surgical sites clean and follow the instructions you receive for dressings, bathing, and scar care.
- Limit strenuous activity: Avoid heavy lifting and vigorous upper-body exercise until Dr. Dawes clears you to resume them.
- Attend follow-up visits: Follow-up appointments allow Dr. Dawes to check your healing and advise you when you can gradually return to normal activities.
- Watch for unexpected changes: Contact the office if you have concerns about your incisions, worsening discomfort, or other changes that don't seem consistent with your recovery instructions.
Schedule an Arm Lift Consultation in Calgary, AB
Arm lift surgery can improve upper arm contour when excess skin does not respond to diet or exercise. Dr. Jeffrey C. Dawes can assess your skin laxity, discuss the expected incision location and length, and determine whether brachioplasty or another surgical option fits your goals.
To discuss arm lift surgery with Jeffrey C. Dawes, MD, FRCSC, Plastic and Dermatologic Surgery in Calgary, AB, book a consultation or call 403-571-3141.
