Plastic Surgeons Discuss Arm Lifts
As you age or if you lose a lot of weight, your upper arms can be plagued hanging flaps of excess skin commonly known as “bat wings.” Plastic surgeons can surgically tighten up the skin on your upper arms with a procedure called brachioplasty or an upper arm lift. Arm lifts remove excess fat and skin to make them look sleek and toned. An arm lift is an outpatient procedure, but requires general anesthesia.
Brachioplasty does leave scars that can be seen in sleeveless or short sleeve clothing. There is no hidden crease on the arm to make the incision, so the trade off is to decide whether you prefer a visible scar down the center inside of your arm or keep your wings. There are post-surgical procedures that can reduce scarring when the incision is healed if they are too bothersome.
After the surgery the sutures will be need to be removed in about two weeks. Restrict heavy lifting, pulling, or pushing for the next six weeks, so your arms have a chance to heal. The compression garment should be worn for a minimum of four weeks; however, six weeks is optimal.
The use of a bath tubs, Jacuzzi, or anything that allows the body to submerge is not allowed, until clearance from the physician has been provided (usually 3-4 weeks after the surgery). Showering is allowed 48 hours after surgery.
Remember – this surgery typically involves both arms. Your range of motion and ability to care for yourself may be compromised immediately after the surgery. You may want to have help for those first few critical days after your arm lift surgery!
