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At Salinas Valley Plastic Surgery Associates, we help patients in Salinas achieve more balanced, contoured arms through personalized surgical care. Whether changes are due to aging, weight loss, or genetics, our approach focuses on natural-looking results that align with your body and goals. Arm lift surgery is designed to address both excess skin and stubborn fat for a smoother, more defined upper arm appearance.
Arm Lift Benefits and Procedure
Stubborn fat and loose, sagging skin along the upper arms can be difficult to improve with diet and exercise alone. For patients with good skin elasticity, liposuction may provide enough contouring to refine the arms. However, when excess skin is present—often after weight loss or due to aging—an arm lift (brachioplasty) is the most effective way to restore a firmer, more toned look.
This procedure removes excess skin and tightens underlying tissue to improve arm shape and proportion. In many cases, it can be combined with liposuction for more comprehensive contouring and smoother results.
Because excess skin must be surgically removed, an arm lift does involve a scar, typically placed along the inner arm. While scars fade over time, they are an important consideration and part of the trade-off for a significant improvement in contour. Our team will walk you through incision placement, healing expectations, and aftercare so you feel confident in your decision.
Am I a Good Candidate for an Arm Lift?
Good candidates for an arm lift are individuals with significant upper arm skin laxity. The procedure benefits candidates who are at or near their ideal body weight. The candidates must have a stable weight to enjoy the best results of the procedure for the long term.
Arm lift candidates must also have realistic expectations and should understand that results are different for everyone. The surgical plan is designed to match your whole body’s contour. A commitment to the aftercare instructions greatly affects the results during and after the recovery period as well.
Before considering an arm lift procedure, it is highly recommended that candidates avoid smoking and drinking alcohol. These lifestyle factors can slow down the healing process and lead to complications.
How to Prepare for an Arm Lift
Preparing for an arm lift surgery involves undergoing a medical evaluation, adjusting current medications, and stopping smoking. Patients are advised to avoid taking blood-thinning medication, anti-inflammatory drugs, and herbal supplements a week before the procedure to prevent excessive swelling or bruising.
It’s also important to take time off work for 5-7 days and arrange for someone to drive you home after surgery. Having a companion to stay with you for at least the first night will help you rest more and recover faster.
What to Expect During an Arm Lift Procedure
During the procedure, anesthesia is administered for a comfortable experience. The surgeon then makes incisions either on the inside or back of the arm, possibly extending from the underarm to just above the elbow.
The procedure typically lasts two to three hours, depending on the amount of work needed to achieve the desired results. The remaining skin is then tightened and sutured back together, resulting in a more youthful and defined arm contour.
Arm Lift Recovery
Recovery from an arm lift surgery involves wearing compression garments to minimize swelling and support the new contours of your arms. Drains may be temporarily placed to remove any excess blood or fluid.
Patients typically experience bruising and swelling, which subsides in 3-4 weeks, depending on the patient’s skin sensitivity. Prepare a cold compress and take pain medication as instructed by the surgeon.
* Individual results may vary.
Photo Gallery
View before-and-after pictures of real patients of Dr. Matthew Romans
To learn more, contact our office today!
Schedule Your Consultation
If you’re considering an arm lift, contact us and schedule a consultation. During the consultation, you can discuss your appearance goals, ask questions about the procedure, and learn more about what to expect before, during, and after arm lift surgery. This consultation ensures that you are well-informed and prepared to achieve your dream body figure.
