Many people are embarrassed about the saggy skin of their arms, which often occurs as we age or after significant weight loss. If you are bothered by this issue, the experts at Dr. Soliman Fakeeh Hospital offer arm lift surgery as part of our cosmetic surgery services.

What is an Arm Lift?

An arm lift (Brachioplasty) is a procedure designed to improve the appearance of the upper arms by removing flabby skin and tightening the remaining skin. Your surgeon can perform liposuction during brachioplasty to remove excess fat that doesn't respond to diet and exercise.This results in more toned and aesthetically pleasing arms. (1)

Indications

Arm lift surgery is a suitable option for individuals with loose skin in the upper arms. (2)

While weight-lifting and other resistance exercises can strengthen arm muscles, they cannot correct loose skin, makingsurgery the ideal solution for achieving smoother, more toned arms. (2)

Outcomes

Results of an arm lift are visible immediately after surgery, but the final look will become more apparent over the following weeks once theswelling and bruising subside. These results are relatively long-lasting provided that weight and fitness are maintained. Nevertheless, it is naturalfor skin elasticity to change with aging. (3)

As for the scar resulting from the procedure, it is typically located along the inner or back of the arm, extending from the armpit to near the elbow, which makes it less noticeable when the arms are kept by the sides. Initially, the scar is red and raised, but it significantly fades and flattens over 6 to 12 months, although it doesn’t completely disappear. The extent to which the scar diminishes depends largely on several individual factors, such as skin type, genetics, and scar care. (3)

Risks

• Arm lift surgery is generally safe, especially with the advanced techniques used today. However, as with any kind of surgical procedure, there are potential risks, including: (4)
• Asymmetry of the arms.
• Severe swelling.
• Damage to nearby tissues, like muscles or nerves, which may cause temporary or permanent numbness.
• Fluid accumulation beneath the skin.
• Thickened scars.
• Tissue death (necrosis).
• Rare complications of any surgery:As with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of allergic reactions to anesthesia, bleeding, infection, or blood clots.

Preparation

• Achieve ideal weight: This ensures optimal results from the surgery.
• Review medications with your doctor: Inform your surgeon about any medications you're taking, as you may need to stop oradjust some of them before surgery.
• Stop smoking: Smoking delays the healing process.
• Follow any specific instructions provided by your doctor. (1)

Surgery Steps

An arm lift usually takes about 2-3 hours and includes the following steps: (2)

• Anesthesia: The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia, or light sedation in some cases.
• Incision: The surgeon makes an incision along the inside or back of the arm, usually extending from the armpit to just above the elbow. The length and location of the incision depend on how much excess skin needs to be removed.
• Skin and fat removal: Excess skin is removed, and in some cases, liposuction is performed along with it.
• Closing the Incisions: The incisions are closed with internal stitches or special sutures to tighten the skin around the arms.

The incisions are dressed with bandages, and compression garments may be used to reduce swelling and support the new shape of the arms during recovery.

Recovery

Recovery after an arm lift surgery usually takes around 2-4 weeks. (5)

• In the first two weeks, you may experience swelling and bruising, which will gradually decrease.
• You may have some pain or discomfort, but it can be managed with prescribed painkillers.
• You will likely need to wear compression garments to reduce swelling and fluid buildup.
• Your surgeon will give you instructions on post-surgical care, including keeping your arms elevated to minimize swelling and avoiding heavy lifting for some time after surgery.
• The final result of arm lift surgery may become apparent after 6 weeks and will continue to improve over the following weeks and months.

Cosmetic Surgery at Dr. Soliman Fakeeh Hospital

At Dr. Soliman Fakeeh Hospital, we offer a unique cosmetic surgery experience. Our team of skilled surgeons combines extensive experience with advanced techniques to help you achieve the results you've always desired.

Why Choose Us?

• Extensive Experience: Our cosmetic surgeons have a proven track record of successfully performing arm lift procedures.
• Advanced Techniques: We utilize the latest surgical technologies to provide precise and aesthetic results.
• Personalized Care: From the initial consultation to post-surgical recovery, we focus on every detail of your care.
• Comfortable Environment: We ensure a relaxing hospital stay.

Visit our website today for more information or to book a consultation. 

References

1. Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons - Arm Lift
2. Cleveland Clinic - Brachioplasty (Arm Lift)
3. American Society of Plastic Surgeons - Arm Lift
4. Betterhealth - Brachioplasty (arm lift surgery)
5. The University of Kansas Health System - Arm Lift