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What is Arm Lift Surgery?
Excess skin along the underside of the upper arm is common in patients who have experienced significant weight loss. Additionally, gravity over time can cause tissues and fat in this area to become loose and hang in an unattractive way. Patients often become upset with how they look in t-shirts or tank tops. An arm lift procedure, also called brachioplasty, removes excess skin and fat and can help to improve the shape and tone of the upper arm, as well as how you feel about yourself. Some of the primary benefits of an arm lift procedure include:
- Improving the contour of the arms and restoring tone
- Removing redundant and deflated skin following massive weight loss
- Correcting excess sagging skin and fatty tissue
Patient Results
Your Customized Arm Lift in Pensacola, FL
Your initial consultation with Dr. Shaddix is the best time to ask any questions you may have about your procedure. Additionally, he will discuss your unique procedure and what you can expect. There are some decisions to be made about your procedure, including which arm and incision you prefer. The most common arm lift incisions are:
- The Inner Arm incision, which extends from the armpit to the elbow when the arm is placed at a right angle next to the head
- The Back of Arm Incision, which follows the tricep muscle all the way to the elbow
- The Minimal Incision, which follows a crescent-shape within the natural folds of the armpit
Each surgical technique offers its benefits and complications, and Dr. Shaddix can recommend the best one for your personal goals and anatomy. During your consultation, you’ll also be given detailed care steps for your recovery period and an idea of what you can expect during that time. You should use this time to discuss your medical history and ensure a cosmetic procedure to remove excess skin will not cause complications to your health.
The Procedure
A brachioplasty procedure is performed under general anesthesia. Each surgery is individualized, taking into account the amount of extra skin and fat present, as well as your goals. If there is only a small amount of extra skin needing improvement on the upper arms, a small opening may benefit you best. If you have a larger amount of excess skin, then the Inner Arm Incision may be required. Depending upon the amount of fatty tissue present, an upper arm lift is frequently combined with liposuction. The liposuction procedure uses a thin tube to remove more fat and provide even more dramatic results. Also, if there is excess tissue on the chest wall, the cut can be extended to address this area as well. Your exact surgical procedure will be discussed at length during your consultation.
During your cosmetic surgery, extra skin and fat are removed and the skin is redraped over the muscles. The arm lift incisions are meticulously closed with absorbable sutures so there are no stitches to remove after surgery. Patients with minimal concerns can undergo a short scar brachioplasty– a simplified version of the reputable outpatient procedure.
Patient Testimonials
Dr. Shaddix is simply the best there is. After explaining my various options, we settled on something that was both cost-efficient and minimally invasive. After the procedure, he continued to make himself available however he could to ensure a speedy and healthy recovery. His office staff is accommodating and professional, while Dr. Shaddix himself is capable, competent and kind.”
Read Patient ReviewsRecovery After Brachioplasty
A period of rest after any surgery is a good idea. Generally, it can take about one week to regain full function of your arms. You should arrange to have a loved one or a friend to help you during this time. You should be able to return to work one to two weeks after surgery, depending on the physical nature of your job. You should also plan to allow several weeks before returning to any strenuous activities, exercise, or heavy lifting. Most patients have some discomfort after surgery, but this can be controlled with medications prescribed by your doctor or Dr. Shaddix. Patients are asked to wear a compression garment postoperatively, which can help reduce possible risks, improve blood flow and blood pressure, and keep the skin adhered to improve contour. This garment also helps support your arms during the healing process, decreases postoperative swelling, and helps decrease bruising. As with all surgery at Shaddix Plastic Surgery, you will be given detailed before-and-after surgery instructions, and Dr. Shaddix will be available to answer questions and guide you along the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do arm lift scars fade?
Does insurance pay for arm lift?
How long does it take to recover from an arm lift?
How much does a Brachioplasty surgery cost?
Does arm lift leave a scar?
How long does it take for Brachioplasty scars to heal?
Will there be visible scars after surgery?
Can an arm lift be combined with other procedures?
Will my arm lift results be permanent?
How long do you have to wear compression garments after an arm lift?
Can I wear deodorant after an arm lift?
Who is a good candidate for arm lift surgery?
What happens during arm lift surgery?
Will my arm lift leave a visible scar?
What should I expect during recovery?
How long will my results last after arm lift surgery?
At Shaddix Plastic Surgery it's a very laid back, low pressure environment where my goal is to educate, and not to sell.”
Meet dr. shaddixTo find out more information about what you can expect and determine if you are a candidate for surgery, call Shaddix Plastic Surgery today. We proudly serve Pensacola, Gulf Breeze, Destin, Fort Walton, and all of Northwest Florida and the Gulf Coast. To get started, call our office or submit your information using the form below!
