OVERVIEW
For some people, warmer weather doesn’t mean tank tops and sleeveless clothing due to the condition of their upper arms, which can look saggy and untoned. In these instances, Houston cosmetic surgeon, Dr. Sumpter, can perform an arm lift. This surgery involves removing saggy and extraneous skin from the upper arms and tightening the remaining skin and underlying muscles for a firmer, more toned look. When there’s excessive fat in the area, Dr. Sumpter can use liposuction to further enhance the look of the arms. Following surgery, patients should feel confident enough to show their toned arms off in sleeveless clothes.
BEST CANDIDATES
The best candidates for an arm lift procedure are men or women who have loose and hanging skin from the underside of the upper arm. This skin keeps these individuals from wearing short sleeves or fitting clothing. Patients must be at or near their goal weight, and their weight loss should be stabilized. This surgery is not reserved for weight loss patients alone. Aging and gravity can also have a negative effect on the arms. Patients who are in good health and wish to have their arms toned and tightened may also consider this procedure.
WHAT TO EXPECT
The goal of a brachioplasty procedure is to result in a toned upper arm appearance. Dr. Sumpter will evaluate the skin quality and looseness and determine how much fat, tissue and skin should be removed to attain the results the patient desires. The length of the incision made during surgery will vary; patients who have healthy skin tone may only require a minor incision. Massive weight loss patients that present with excessively loose and hanging skin will require a more extensive approach. During surgery, the excess skin is trimmed and removed, and the underlying muscles are tightened. An armpit lift is sometimes incorporated during this procedure for patients who have additional skin and fat deposits within the armpit.
BRACHIOPLASTY RECOVERY
Swelling is expected after brachioplasty surgery although this varies between patients. The swelling starts to resolve during the first 1-2 weeks after surgery. A compression garment or sleeve will usually be needed to control this swelling and help keep the skin and tissue firmly protected. Most patients can resume modest arm activity in 3-4 weeks, with a complete recovery occurring in about 4-6 weeks. While scarring is a part of this procedure, the incision resides under the arm so that it is not as noticeable. Dr. Sumpter will provide a scar treatment plan so that the incision heals optimally.
EXPECTED COST
A brachioplasty procedure can cost around $5,000 to $7,000. It is also common to combine brachioplasty with another body contouring cosmetic surgery procedure. In this case, the costs will increase.
GET TONED ARMS TODAY!
If you are in the process of completing your weight loss journey, or if aging and gravity has caused loose skin to hang from your arms, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with our talented staff today. As a body contouring board-certified cosmetic surgeon, Dr. Sumpter creates tighter, youthful looking arms with lasting results.
