Over time, the aging process, changes in weight, and the force of gravity will all have an effect on the body, leaving you with excess skin hanging along the upper arm. Sometimes playfully called a “batwing,” this flabby tissue can cause you to feel self-conscious and can make wearing a tank top or swimsuit uncomfortable. The arm lift, or brachioplasty, will remove this sagging skin and fat, reshaping the tissues, and restoring a toned, youthful arm.
The Brachioplasty at Clevens Face and Body Specialists
The brachioplasty is a surgical procedure designed to tighten the tissues above the elbow. Once this skin looses its elasticity, it can become weak and droop. The arm lift will restore structure to the upper arm, removing the deposits of localized fat, boosting the appearance with a more defined look. Depending on the individual situation, a full brachioplasty can be performed; or a smaller (mini-arm lift) can create tailored, exceptional results. Sometimes this procedure can be combined with liposuction of the upper arm for optimal results.
Dr. Amy Ortega offers her innovative brachioplasty in Central Florida. Patients in Melbourne, Vero Beach, and Merritt Island can conveniently choose the outpatient procedure to address loose and hanging skin on the upper arm. By combining an arm lift with a breast augmentation, liposuction, and lower body lift, patients can obtain optimum body-sculpting results.
The Ideal Brachioplasty Candidate
Potential brachioplasty patients are unhappy with the appearance of loose and hanging skin along the upper arms. Many people who have gone through a large weight loss can find the arm lift beneficial. Ideally, a good candidate for an arm lift will be at their ideal weight, in good health, understand the surgical procedure, and can commit to the recovery process. At the consultation, if an arm lift is determined to be the right procedure to achieve your aesthetic goals, a personalized surgical plan will be created.
The Arm Lift Consultation with Dr. Ortega
The best way to find out if you are a good candidate for an arm lift is to visit with Dr. Ortega in consultation. During this evaluation, she will discuss your expectations for the arm lift, as well as your health and medical history.
Your brachioplasty consult will include:
- Discussion of your desires and expectations from the arm lift
- Review of your medical history and current conditions, including medications and allergies
- Physical examination of the arms
- Instructions for before and after the brachioplasty, including information on medications or activities that need to be avoided (such as aspirin or smoking) prior to the procedure
- Review of your quote and flexible financing options, if desired
The Arm Lift Procedure
Dr. Ortega will perform her arm lift procedure on an outpatient basis using general anesthesia. The procedure will take between two and five hours, depending on the extent of correction and whether any additional techniques are included.
To begin the surgery, Dr. Ortega will make a medial incision along the inner portion of the upper arm. This incision typically runs from the armpit to the elbow. In some cases, a mini-arm lift can be performed, using a smaller incision. From here, she will excise the unwanted fatty tissue and skin. Once the desired correction has been achieved, Dr. Ortega will tighten the muscles and skin, placing sutures along the incisions. A compression garment will be placed for better healing and to reduce the accumulation of fluid. Dr. Ortega may also include temporary drain tubes to relieve fluid accumulation.
Liposuction may be combined with the brachioplasty procedure, allowing Dr. Ortega to address pockets of fatty tissue along the arm. For optimal results, the arm lift may be performed with additional rejuvenating procedures, such as a body lift or breast augmentation.
The Arm Lift Recovery Process
As brachioplasty is an outpatient operation, arm lift patients are able to return home the same day as their procedure. Bruising and swelling is common in the area of the inner arm, and this usually peaks around three days after the procedure. The recovery period will take about a week, and most patients are back at work in less than seven days. Heavy lifting and exercise should be postponed for six weeks. Dr. Ortega will work with you to manage discomfort during your recovery.
The recovery process will include several follow-ups with Dr. Ortega, at which time she can remove any drains, change dressings, and monitor the arm’s healing. After the surgery, patients are placed in a special compression garment. This should be worn for approximately 4-6 weeks, after which full activity can be resumed.
Why Choose Clevens Face and Body Specialists
If you think brachioplasty may be for you, schedule a consultation with Dr. Ortega by calling 321.727.3223. Dr. Ortega is an award-winning board certified plastic surgeon who is double-fellowship trained. With 20 years of experience, she specializes in plastic surgery of the breast and body, including brachioplasty. As one of the most respected female plastic surgeons in the country, Dr. Ortega’s extensive experience can create the satisfying, rejuvenating results you’re looking for. For your convenience, Dr. Ortega sees patients at Clevens Face and Body Specialists, located in Melbourne or Merritt Island, Florida.
Arm Lift FAQ
What is an arm lift?
The arm lift, more often referred to as a brachioplasty, is a surgical procedure that can significantly improve the contour of the upper arm.
Can I have arm reduction without surgery?
While exercise and weightlifting can leave your muscles toned, it cannot do anything to address excess skin that has become loose and saggy. A brachioplasty is the only option to reduce stretched skin and tissue on the upper arm.
Will I need liposuction during my arm lift, as well?
Depending on the level of correction needed, some brachioplasty procedures will include liposuction. Lipo can be used to better sculpt the arm, removing excess fatty deposits.
How long is the brachioplasty procedure?
Dr. Ortega’s arm lift will take between two and five hours to perform.
Will my arm lift be painful?
While a mild to moderate level of discomfort is common with all body sculpting procedures, Dr. Ortega will prescribe appropriate pain medications to keep patients comfortable during the recovery period.
How severe is the brachioplasty scar?
Scarring does occur with the arm lift, running along the incision lines. Dr. Ortega will place incisions on the less visible inside area of the arm. Over time, the scar will fade somewhat but will remain visible.
How long does it take the scar to heal?
The initial scar will heal in approximately six weeks. Dr. Ortega will work with the patient for the best scar management.
How long will the results from a brachioplasty last?
The results from an arm lift can be long lasting, as long as the patient maintains a stable weight through a healthy lifestyle, although this is dependent on each patient’s individual skin quality and skin laxity.
When can I return to work after a brachioplasty?
Most of Dr. Ortega’s patients are ready to return to work or school less than a week after their brachioplasty procedure.
What are the risks involved with the arm lift?
The brachioplasty is a common procedure and is considered safe for most patients. While complications are very rare, issues that may arise can include scarring, bleeding, skin discoloration, asymmetry, and nerve damage.
