Aging, heredity and weight loss can cause sagging and drooping of excess skin, and sometimes fat, of the upper arms that cannot be corrected with diet and exercise. This can be corrected with arm lift surgery, or brachioplasty, by removing excess skin and tightening and smoothing the underlying tissue that defines the shape of the upper arm. Veteran Santa Rosa Plastic Surgeon Barry N. Silberg, M.D., F.A.C.S., is pleased to offer brachioplasty for the the removal of excess skin that has lost its elasticity causing a sagging appearance on the upper arm. Arm lift surgery is not for the removal of excess fat. For the removal of excess fat, the procedure is often accompanied with liposuction.
Candidates for Arm Lift Surgery
The best candidates for arm lift surgery, or brachioplasty, are men or women with relatively stable weight and significant sagging of the upper arms. As with any surgical procedure, it's a big plus for candidates who are non-smokers and who maintain good habits for nutrition and fitness.
Procedure for Arm Lift Surgery
This procedure is done under either conscious sedation or general anesthesia and is determined on a case-by-case basis. Incisions are generally placed on the inside or back of the arm and may extend from the underarm to just above the elbow. The actual length of incision will depend on the amount of excess skin to be removed. Liposuction will be used to remove excess fat. Underlying tissue is tightened and reshaped.
You must have a ride home after your surgery and you should plan on having someone stay with you through the first day.
Recovery from Arm Lift Surgery
During your recovery from arm lift surgery, dressings or bandages may be applied to your incisions, and your arms may be wrapped in an elastic bandage or a compression garment to minimize swelling following surgery. A thin tube may be temporarily placed under the skin for drainage of excess fluid. You should plan for restricted activity for three weeks post-surgery.
Learn More About Arm Lift Surgery
To learn more about brachioplasty, or arm lift surgery, contact Dr. Barry Silberg's Santa Rosa CA office to schedule your free complimentary consultation by calling (707) 528-0911 or submit our confidential online form.