An Arm Lift, also known as Brachioplasty, is the surgical removal of excess skin and fat from the upper arm. Excessive and unsightly skin and fat on the upper arms is a normal occurrence that comes with age as well as after a substantial weight loss. The procedure is performed to improve the appearance of the upper arm but is also done to prevent chafing on the skin around the armpit.
Arm Lift Benefits
Aside from the aesthetic improvement of having excess skin and fat removed from the upper arm, arm lift patients also find their clothes fit better. Additionally, the removal of excess skin in the armpit area decreases pain and discomfort from chafing. After an arm lift, many patients find they have a better time participating in physical activities and more gratifying workouts.
About Arm Lifts
S. Larry Schlesinger, MD, FACS performs two types of Arm Lifts, the first of which is a Standard Brachioplasty. The standard brachioplasty involves an incision from the armpit to the elbow, with the resulting scar located on the inside of the arm. This procedure reduces loose skin on the outside of the arm and eliminates tissue that may hang down from the triceps.
The other Arm Lift technique is the Arm Lift with Axillary Incision with Dart. In this procedure, loose skin on the arm is pulled from the upper arm and an ellipse of skin is removed from the armpit area. A short piece of tissue is then removed up to five inches from the armpit. This technique provides a better result with less loose skin on the upper arm and can be very aesthetically pleasing.
An arm lift requires general anesthesia and usually takes between 1.5 and three hours, depending on the amount of excess fat and skin that is being removed. Most patients are able to return home the same day as the procedure and can control discomfort with prescription pain medications. Swelling in the armpit area generally lasts two to three months and the results typically last five to seven years, depending on the patient and their habits.
The care I receive from Dr. Schlesinger IS amazing- knowing that Dr. Schlesinger makes himself available, either by phone or appointment, should something come up, is very reassuring. Dr. Schlesinger is extremely knowledgeable, patient (even when dealing with a hypochondriac like me), and very easy to talk to. The fact that he truly LOVES what he does is apparent in the way he tends to patients and the beautiful, natural results that he achieves. His staff is very friendly and they treat you more like a friend, rather than just a patient. If you’re looking for the best, Dr. Schlesinger is it!
Serving patients from Honolulu, S. Larry Schlesinger, MD, FACS can address the unsightly skin and fat on your upper arms, giving you the results you need to get back to a healthy lifestyle and comfort level.
Schedule a consultation with arm lift specialist, S. Larry Schlesinger, MD, FACS.
RealSelf Q&A with S. Larry Schlesinger, MD, FACS