Arm Lift in Phoenix, AZ

Scottsdale, AZ board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. John Williams, has special skills in body contouring and fat removal, specifically for the upper arm. An arm lift, also known as brachioplasty, uses a diverse range of innovative cosmetic surgical techniques to remove excess skin and fat deposits from the upper arm. Maturing skin may droop on the arms or the skin may hang due to the patient having lost weight. In order to lift the arm, an incision is typically made from under the elbow along the inner arm to the armpit. Dr. Williams may use a combination of techniques, such as liposuction, for greater success. Patients requesting an arm lift may inquire about other surgeries performed at the same time as the arm lift.

The best candidates for an arm lift procedure are men or women who have loose and hanging skin from the underside of the upper arm. This skin keeps these individuals from wearing short sleeves or fitted clothing. Patients must be at or near their goal weight, and their weight loss should be stabilized. This surgery is not reserved for weight loss patients alone. Aging and gravity can also have a negative effect on the arms. Patients who are in good health and wish to have their arms toned and tightened may also consider this procedure.

The goal of a brachioplasty procedure is a toned upper arm appearance. Our talented surgeon will evaluate the skin quality and looseness and determine how much fat, tissue and skin should be removed to attain the results the patient desires. The length of the incision made during surgery will vary; patients who have healthy skin tone may only require a minor incision. Massive weight loss patients that present with excessively loose and hanging skin will require a more extensive approach. During surgery, the excess skin is trimmed and removed. Extending the lift into the armpit is sometimes required during this procedure for patients who have additional skin and fat deposits within the armpit.

Swelling is expected after brachioplasty surgery although this varies between patients. The swelling starts to resolve during the first 1-2 weeks after surgery. A compression garment or sleeve will usually be needed for 4-6 weeks to control this swelling and help keep the skin and tissue firmly protected. Most patients can resume modest arm activity in 3-4 weeks, with a complete recovery occurring in about 6-8 weeks.  While scarring is unfortunately a part of this procedure, the incision resides under the arm so that it is not as noticeable. Our doctor will provide a scar treatment plan so that the incision heals in a healthy and quick manner.

If you are in the process of completing your weight loss journey, or if aging and gravity has caused loose skin to hang from your arms, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with our talented staff today. As a body contouring board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Williams creates tighter, youthful looking arms with lasting results.