For many individuals, the upper arms can be particularly difficult to tone. This can be especially true following significant weight gain and/or loss. For individuals with loose, flabby and/or inelastic upper arm skin, the arm lift can help. The arm lift, also known as brachioplasty, is a plastic surgery procedure which removes excess skin and fat of the upper arms to create a smoother, more toned appearance.
Candidates for the arm lift are healthy, and are realistic in their expectations for improvement. Patients are typically looking to improve loose, sagging upper arm skin which some may refer to as "bat wings" or "flags". The surgery can be combined with liposuction for individuals with significant amounts of fat as well as excess skin.
Dr. Steinbrech performs arm lift surgery on an outpatient basis at his JCAHO accredited office-based surgery facility at Gotham Plastic Surgery of New York City. General anesthesia or IV sedation may be used. The incision for the arm lift is made on the inside of the upper arm between the underarm and elbow. The length of the incision will vary depending on the amount and location of excess fat and skin to be removed. Through this incision excess skin is excised and, if necessary, excess fat can be removed with liposuction.
After surgery, some swelling and bruising may occur, as well as discomfort which can be alleviated with medication. A compression garment will need to be worn for several weeks. Many patients find that they can return to work after one week.
