Arm Lift
As an experienced plastic surgeon in Houston and The Woodlands, TX, Dr. Cassie Hartline uses her extensive surgical skill to deliver natural-looking results. Dr. Hartline believes that everyone deserves to feel comfortable in their body. For many patients, arm lift surgery can improve the contour of the upper arms to reveal a more toned and youthful appearance.
What is an Arm Lift?
An arm lift, also known as brachioplasty, is a cosmetic surgery designed to reshape and tighten the upper arms. Factors such as aging, genetics, and weight loss can contribute to sagging or loose skin, sometimes referred to as “bat wings.” In an arm lift procedure, Dr. Hartline will remove excess skin and reposition underlying tissues to contour the upper arm. Small amounts of fat can also be removed, and liposuction is often utilized in an arm lift. Dr. Hartline tailors each arm lift procedure to fit the needs of an individual patient.
Benefits of Arm Lift Surgery
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Brachioplasty (Arm Lift)
Cleveland Clinic
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Arm lift surgery
can:
- Improve the overall shape and contour of the upper arms
- Remove excess skin and excess fat deposits
- Eliminate discomfort and chafing from excess skin
- Give the confidence to wear sleeveless clothing
- Deliver long-lasting results
What to Expect From Your Arm Lift
Arm lift surgery is a transformative solution for a more toned and youthful appearance. The details of your treatment plan will vary depending on your unique needs and aesthetic goals. Rest assured that Dr. Hartline will explain your options and your individual treatment plan in detail so that you know what to expect each step of the way.
Preparing for Arm Lift Surgery
Your first step is an initial consultation appointment with Dr. Hartline. She will review your medical history, learn more about your goals, and answer any questions you have about arm lift surgery or other cosmetic procedures. If arm lift surgery is right for you, Dr. Hartline will provide you with detailed pre-operative instructions.
Your Arm Lift Procedure
Arm lift surgery is typically an outpatient procedure performed with general anesthesia. Dr. Hartline will review incision placement with you prior to surgery. To minimize the visibility of scars, incisions are usually placed strategically on the inner arm. Dr. Hartline will carefully remove excess skin and fat and position underlying tissue for a toned, natural-looking result.
Recovery After Arm Lift Surgery
Full recovery from arm lift surgery can take up to six weeks, although most patients can resume day-to-day activities two weeks after surgery. You will need to refrain from strenuous activity and heavy lifting (this includes lifting small children!) for at least four weeks.
Dr. Hartline may instruct you to wear a compression garment during your initial recovery, which can help with swelling and optimize your results. For pain management after surgery, Dr. Hartline typically uses Exparel, which is a long-lasting, opioid-free injection that relieves pain for several days.
Contact Dr. Hartline
Give yourself the confidence to wave hello in a short sleeved shirt. Contact Dr. Hartline to learn more about arm lift surgery or to schedule your consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Arm Lift Surgery
Am I a good candidate for arm lift surgery?
Ideal candidates for arm lift surgery are in good general health and are concerned with excess skin and fat in the upper arms. Arm lift candidates should be at a stable weight with appropriate skin elasticity.
How long does the procedure take?
The duration varies, but typically arm lift surgery takes around 2 to 3 hours.
Will I have visible scars after my arm lift?
While some scarring is inevitable, Dr. Hartline takes great care to place incisions strategically, minimizing their visibility. She can also advise you on scar care to help any scars fade as quickly as possible.
What are the risks of arm lift surgery?
Dr. Hartline takes patient safety very seriously and will do everything she can to ensure a safe and healthy outcome. Of course, any surgical procedure carries some risk of side effects or complications. Possible risks of arm lift surgery include infection, bleeding, anesthesia risks, and nerve damage.
Can an arm lift be combined with other procedures?
Yes, many patients choose to add arm lift surgery to a mommy makeover, along with a tummy tuck and breast lift. Patients who have experienced significant weight loss that affected their skin laxity may also have a body lift or thigh lift procedure. Whether these procedures are performed at the same time as your arm lift, or scheduled separately, will depend on your needs.
1 Cleveland Clinic. Brachioplasty (Arm Lift). Available: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/23367-brachioplasty-arm-lift Accessed January 5, 2024
Cassie Hartline M.D. has either authored or reviewed and approved this content
Page Updated: July 10, 2024