To remove excess hanging skin from the arms following a gastric bypass surgery for weight loss, this patient had an Arm Lift.
View Patient Details
Arm Lift (Brachioplasty)
What is an Arm Lift?
The brachioplasty procedure, also known as an arm lift, reduces excess skin and underlying fat that occurs between the underarm and the elbow, reshaping the arm to result in smoother skin and more normal contours.
What can an arm lift surgery do for me?
An arm lift will reduce the size of your upper arms to give you smooth, tightened skin and a more toned and proportionate appearance. This procedure is commonly performed on patients who have had a large amount of weight loss or patients who have a lot of saggy skin in their arms.
What types of arm lifts does Dr. Rodriguez perform?
After my weight loss, the excess skin on my upper arms makes me look like I have bat wings.
The arm lift is often combined with other cosmetic surgery procedures performed during the same surgical session. The arm lift procedure can be performed various ways and the final decision can only be made after your consultation. During your initial consultation, Dr. Rodriguez will evaluate your specific needs as to which type of arm lift is best suited for you. The incision length and pattern will depend upon the amount and location of excess skin to be removed to give you the best looking results.
-
Invisible Arm Lift - removes excess skin at the crease of axilla (armpit) resulting in a short scar and is usually combined with liposuction of the upper arm.
-
Traditional Arm Lift - removes excess skin and fatty tissue, the incision is placed on the inside of the arm or on the back of the arm and extends to just above the elbow.
-
Extended Arm Lift, or Thoracic Lift - removes excess skin and fatty tissue that is on the side of the chest, axilla, and upper arm. The incision is like the traditional arm lift except that it is extended from the arm all the way down the side of the chest. This extended Arm Lift is also known as a Thoracic lift.
What are the alternatives to the arm lift?
Liposuction may be a surgical alternative to brachioplasty if there is good skin tone and localized fatty deposits in an individual of normal weight. However, if you have too much excess skin, liposuction alone will only make the skin more saggy.
Where is the arm lift performed?
Dr. Rodriguez performs arm lift surgery in his AAAASF accredited outpatient facility, located at his Baltimore office.
What type of anesthesia is used for arm lift surgery?
For arm lift procedures, Dr. Rodriguez prefers the use of monitored IV-sedation anesthesia instead of general anesthesia. With IV anesthesia, patients can combine multiple procedures very safely and recover much faster. To learn more about IV sedation and the difference between it and general sedation, see Dr. Rodriguez's blog post about the types of anesthesia used in cosmetic surgery.
What is Brachioplasty recovery like?
During the post-op recover period we'll give you written specific instructions and, as always, Dr. Rodriguez is available for any concerns. Arm lift surgery is generally well tolerated, but you'll be sore for the first few days. You'll need someone to drive you home after surgery and stay with you for the first 48 hours after surgery. You will need bed rest with your arms elevated and must avoid movement for the first 10-14 days after surgery. Dr. Rodriguez will closely follow your recovery and recommend the level of activity you may resume at the appropriate time. Keep in mind that you will have limited movement of your arms for up to 4 weeks following brachioplasty surgery. Most patients are able to resume all regular activities between 4 and 6 weeks after an arm lift.
How much does an arm lift cost?
The price range for arm lift surgery, including Dr. Rodriguez's fee, the operating facility fee, IV-sedation anesthesia (twilight), anesthesiologist fee, and the post-surgery compression garment averages between $6,000 to $14,500. Costs vary depending on the complexity and the type of arm lift as well as the time needed in the operating room. The extended arm lift, or thoracic lift is a 6-8 hour procedure, and therefore has the highest cost. At your initial consultation with Dr. Rodriguez, you'll be provided with a surgical fee quote that is specific to your surgical plan. Many patients finance all or part of their surgery. Please see our cosmetic surgery financing options for more information.
Is arm lift surgery right for me?
If the underside of your upper arms have developed sagging, drooping skin, or appears loose and full due to excess skin that has lost its elasticity or underlying weakened tissues and excess fat, an arm lift may be right for you. In general, candidates for an arm lift include adults with significant upper arm skin sagging and laxity. The procedure can be performed on adults of any age whose weight is relatively stable and who are not significantly overweight. The decision to have arm lift surgery is extremely personal and you will have to decide if the benefits will achieve your goals and if the risks and potential complications are acceptable. Individuals with a positive outlook and realistic expectations are usually thrilled with their results.
Brachioplasty is not a surgical treatment for being overweight. Obese individuals who intend to lose weight should postpone all forms of body-contouring surgery until they have reached a stable weight.
Before and After Arm Lift Photos
See Before and After Photos of the Arm Lift Procedure performed by Dr. Ricardo Rodriguez, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon with over 20 years experience. Please note that all of these patients have given written consent to use their photos at our web site. We are very grateful for their participation in patient education!
How do I find out what type of arm lift I need?
The best way to know what procedure is right for you is to have a consultation with Dr. Rodriguez. To schedule an appointment, please call 410-494-8100 now and we'll be happy to schedule a time for you to visit our beautiful Baltimore office. Unable to visit in person? We also offer virtual consultations. Please see our virtual consultation instructions for more information. Any consult fees are applied towards your surgery.
I was very, very pleased with Dr. Rodriguez and his whole office. They were wonderful to me. 