An arm lift, or brachioplasty, is an operation performed to remove excess skin and fat from the upper arm. Aging and weight loss can contribute to sagging of arm skin, which is most noticeable with arm elevation.
For many people in Atlanta, losing weight is only the first step in the pursuit of the ideal figure. Sometimes (especially among those whose skin has lost elasticity due to age or excessive stretching) the hanging skin that remains isn’t exactly what the person who invested so much time and work into getting in shape had in mind.
Dr. Okoro understand the needs and dreams of those who would like to be free from not only the fat deposits that settle around the arms, but also the loose, excess skin that surrounds them. That understanding allows them to offer superior arm lift (brachioplasty) treatments to their patients throughout Georgia and around the world. Our cosmetic plastic surgeons will explain the latest & best techniques for your situation during your confidential consultation.
WHAT IS INVOLVED?
To tighten the arm skin, Dr. Okoro usually make an incision along the inside of the arm, extending from the underarm area to the elbow. Scars are usually hidden with the arm at one’s side. Liposuction is often added to this procedure to improve final shape and contour. Depending on skin excess and elasticity, liposuction alone may provide sufficient improvement.
Dr. Okoro performs arm lifts under general anesthesia as an outpatient procedure. We instruct arm lift patients to wear a compression garment for several weeks. Light arm movement is encouraged soon after surgery but strenuous upper body activity is limited for at least several weeks. Patients may drive and return to work once they discontinue narcotic pain medicine.
LIPOSUCTION OF THE ARMS
You may be a candidate for liposuction only if you have excess subcutaneous fat in the upper arms, which is resistant to diet and exercise. Most patients are at or near their normal weight and desire change in the contour of their arms or liposculpture. Liposuction of the arms is intended to produce a permanent improvement in the contour and proportion of the arm. A more flattering shape to the arm out of clothing is another goal of liposculpture. Liposuction is done on an outpatient basis. General anesthesia is used for safety and comfort. Small suction tubes (cannulas) are inserted through very small incisions at the elbow and armpit area where they will be inconspicuous. Fat is then removed by applying suction to the cannula.
The patient goes home with a compression sleeve garment covering the treated areas. Compression is advised for about a month to reduce the swelling and to promote skin shrinkage and contouring. Initial discomfort is controlled with oral medication. Bruising and swelling usually subside in 2 to 4 weeks. The final result takes shape over 2 to 3 months. Some patients, because of their age and degree of excess skin, may be unable to shrink the skin of the arms with liposuction alone. These patients may be candidates to do liposuction of the arms in conjunction with brachioplasty or upper arm lift.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?
Arm liposuction and or lift is considered cosmetic and therefore is not covered by insurance. The cost of arm lift varies based on the extend of your surgery and the cost of any additional surgery. To make surgery affordable for you, we offer patient financing plans, so be sure to ask. The cost may include the following:
- Surgeon’s fee
- Hospital or surgical facility costs
- Anesthesia fees
- Medication and lab test
- Post-surgery garments
Most health insurance plans will not cover cosmetic arm lift surgery, related complications or another surgery to revise the appearance of your body.
YOUR SATISFACTION INVOLVES MORE THAN A FEE
When choosing a plastic surgeon for arm lift, remember that the surgeon’s experience and your comfort with him or her are just as important as the final cost of the surgery. Dr Okoro can take his time to understand your goals and desire for the best long term outcome. Your safety and satisfaction are very important to them.
For more information about arm lift surgery or to schedule a confidential consultation at our plastic surgery practice, please call us or email us today!
