Arm Lift (Brachioplasty)
An Arm Lift (Brachioplasty) refines and reshapes the upper arms by removing excess skin and restoring a smooth, natural contour.
What is it?
An Arm Lift, or Brachioplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to address sagging skin and tissue along the upper arms—commonly referred to as “bat wings.” This concern often arises due to aging, genetics, or significant weight loss, when skin elasticity diminishes and the underlying tissue loses firmness.
At AvenueMD, the goal of Brachioplasty is to restore proportion and definition while maintaining a natural silhouette. Dr. Dimitrios Motakis employs advanced surgical methods that minimize scarring and preserve the harmony of the arm with the rest of the body. Each treatment plan is customized following a detailed consultation to assess anatomy, skin quality, and desired outcomes, ensuring results that align seamlessly with your natural physique.
How does it work?
During the procedure, an incision is made discreetly along the inner arm or under the arm crease, depending on the extent of skin removal required. Through this incision, excess skin and localized fat deposits are carefully excised, and the underlying tissue is tightened and repositioned to achieve a smoother contour. In some cases, liposuction may be performed concurrently to refine definition and balance.
The procedure typically lasts two to three hours and is performed under general anesthesia. Dr. Motakis uses meticulous suturing techniques and careful incision placement to achieve optimal healing and minimize visibility of scars. Each surgical plan is tailored to the individual’s anatomy, balancing precision with artistry to achieve natural, elegant results.
Recovery and downtime
Following surgery, patients can expect swelling, tightness, and bruising for the first one to two weeks. An adhesive dressing is applied over the incision that stays on for 2 weeks. No compression garment is required. Most patients return to light daily activities within 2 weeks and to more vigorous exercise after approximately four to six weeks.
While scars will initially appear pink, they gradually fade and flatten over several months. Patients receive detailed aftercare guidance and follow-up appointments to support an optimal, refined recovery. At AvenueMD, patients have access to a range of laser technologies to help expedite incision fading. Results are long-lasting when paired with stable weight and healthy habits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is a good candidate for an Arm Lift?
Ideal candidates are individuals with loose, sagging skin on the upper arms that does not respond to exercise. Many patients have experienced weight loss or natural age-related changes in skin tone and elasticity.
Will there be visible scarring?
Scars are carefully placed along the inner arm to be as discreet as possible. While all surgery leaves some degree of scarring, most patients find that scars fade significantly over time and are easily concealed.
Can Brachioplasty be combined with other procedures?
Yes. Arm Lift surgery can be safely combined with other contouring procedures such as liposuction, breast lift, or tummy tuck as part of a comprehensive body rejuvenation plan.
How long do the results last?
Results are long-lasting, provided a stable weight and healthy lifestyle are maintained. Natural aging will continue, but the improved contour typically remains for many years.
What type of anesthesia is used?
The procedure is performed under general anesthesia in a fully accredited surgical facility, ensuring comfort and safety throughout.
How soon can I return to work or physical activity?
Most patients resume work and light activity within 2 weeks, while strenuous exercise should be avoided for approximately one month or as directed by your surgeon.
Will I need to wear a compression garment after surgery?
No. A compression garment is not routinely required following Brachioplasty. Surgical technique and meticulous tissuehandling are designed to allow healing without the need for prolongedcompression, improving overall comfort during recovery.
Will arm movement be restricted after surgery?
Patients are encouraged to begin gentle arm movement early to maintain mobility and reduce stiffness. Heavy lifting and strenuous upper-body activity should be avoided for several weeks, but normal daily movements are typically well tolerated.
Is Brachioplasty a weight-loss procedure?
No. An Arm Lift is a contouring procedure designed to remove excess skin and improve arm shape. It does not produce significant weight loss and is best performed once weight has stabilized.
What happens if I gain or lose weight after surgery?
Moderate weight fluctuations are generally well tolerated. Significant weight gain or loss, however, may affect long-term contour and skin quality, which is why surgery is recommended once weight is stable.
How noticeable are scars when wearing short sleeves or sleeve less clothing?
Scars are positioned along the inner arm where they are least visible in natural arm positions. Over time, most scars fade substantially and are not easily noticed in everyday clothing.
Are there risks unique to Arm Lift surgery?
As with any surgical procedure, risks such as swelling, delayed healing, or changes in sensation can occur. These risks are discussed in detail during consultation, and careful surgical planning is used to minimize complications.
What is a mini brachioplasty?
A mini brachioplasty is a procedure sometimes described as limiting the incision to the axillary (armpit) region, relying on perforator-based techniques to hide the scar within the crease. While this approach may appear appealing, it is often ineffective for meaningful skin laxity and can result in distortion of the axilla. For this reason, mini brachioplasty procedures are not performed at AvenueMD.
How are scars treated after an Arm Lift?
At AvenueMD, we offer a comprehensive range of advanced scar optimization treatments to improve scar texture and appearance. These include pulsed dye laser and other energy-based modalities tailored to each patient’s healing pattern. Scar treatments can begin as early as four weeks after surgery, once incisions have adequately healed.
Can non-surgical treatments replace an Arm Lift?
Non-surgical skin-tightening treatments may offer mild improvement in select cases but cannot remove excess skin. For patients with significant laxity, Brachioplasty remains the most effective and predictable option.
When will I see final results?
Early improvements are visible once swelling subsides, but final results continue to refine over several months as tissues settle and scars mature.
Featured Before / After
Brachioplasty: 5784
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