Upper Arm Lift

An upper arm lift, also called a brachioplasty, is a proven procedure to improve the appearance of the upper arm. This body contouring procedure corrects sagging upper arm skin. An arm lift can be performed with special skin-tightening techniques, or using liposuction.

When Is an Arm Lift Right Choice?

Brachioplasty is for patients who are unhappy with the appearance of the upper arm after weight loss or because of aging.

Sagging skin, weak supporting tissue, and localized fat deposits on the arm can obscure muscle tone and affect the arm shape. Strength training can target and develop the muscles of the upper arm. But when skin sagging is severe, strength training is unlikely to achieve significant cosmetic results.

Arm lifts may also be called for if liposuction on the upper arm has failed to produce a sufficient improvement to the skin. Dr. Ward may suggest liposuction first, then choose to do an arm lift if the skin sagging does not improve following liposuction.

Arm lifts will result in an incision scar, but Dr. Ward can give you a clear idea of what to expect. Arm lift patients also have risks to consider, including infection at the surgical site, and asymmetry.

How an Arm Lift Treats Sagging Upper Arms

Arms lifts treat a sagging upper arm in several ways. The skin is always pulled and tightened, with excess skin removed. Lipoplasty (fat removal) may be done at the same time.

Arm lift surgery can:

• Tighten and smooth supportive tissues under the skin that define the shape of the upper arm
• Reduce excess skin on the upper arm, and may
• Reduce localized, stubborn fat in the upper arm

Post-Operative Steps: What to Expect

After an arm lift, you will wear elastic compression garments to minimize swelling. You may have a small tube placed at the surgical site to allow any fluid to drain. You will need to follow Dr. Ward's instructions on the care of your incisions. You should also take steps to reduce scars, such as avoiding excessive sun exposure.

You will have a follow up visit with Dr. Ward to have your sutures removed. You will not be able to return to rigorous activities for several weeks after surgery.

If you are near Dallas Fort Worth, the Arlington area, Mansfield, Grand Prairie, or Duncanville and are interested in learning whether an arm lift is right for you, please call Dr. James Ward at (817) 861-0505 or email us using the online contact form to set up an appointment.