Arm Lift
Arm lift procedures are becoming increasingly more popular as the number of bariatric patients increase. Although massive weight loss is often a cause excess skin and sagging of the underarm, this condition can affect anyone. This condition can be caused by fluctuations in weight, age and heredity.
Dr. Tarick Smiley is a board-certified plastic surgeon in Los Angeles and Beverly Hills, California. He is also an active member of the Plastic Surgery Foundation for which he has received 1st place awards for his publications and presentations.
Exercise and weight training can build muscle tone, however it cannot remove excess skin or weakened tissues. The only way to remove excess skin on the underarm is through a brachioplasty (arm lift surgery).
The exact details of your procedure are determined by the amount of skin to be removed. Many times patients choose to undergo liposuction of the arms to remove unwanted localized pockets of fat. You will discuss this and your aesthetic goals with Dr. Smiley at your complimentary consultation.
Although the length and shape of the scar varies from patient to patient, all arm lift incisions are made from the armpit to the elbow- either under the arm or along the back of the arm. Supportive tissues (known as the fascia) are tightened and contoured. Internal sutures are put in place to hold the new shape of the arm. The incision is then closed either with absorbable sutures or stitches.
A Mini Arm Lift can be performed if only a small amount of excess skin needs to be removed. In the case of a mini arm lift, a small incision is made in the arm pit.
Results can be seen almost immediately. Swelling and bruising will dissipate over the weeks following your arm lift. Any pain or discomfort can be alleviated with medication prescribed by Dr. Smiley.
You will need to return to see Dr. Smiley post-operatively for routine check ups. If stitches are used, they will be removed after a week or two.
Compression garments will be provided to reduce swelling and bruising. It is important to wear your garment as indicated by Dr. Smiley (anywhere from 2-3 weeks).
Typically you will be able to return to work within 3-7 days.
It is important to refrain from lifting and excessive arm movement for 2-6 weeks, however, you may return to mild exercise after 2 weeks (such as walking, leg exercises, etc). Most patients are fully recovered after 4-6 weeks.
After undergoing a arm lift “brachioplasty”, many patients are relieved to see the smoother, more toned appearance of their arms and in turn often gain more self-confidence. It is important to have realistic expectations when undergoing any type of cosmetic procedure. Please note that an Arm Lift can only correct the sagging of the arms between the armpit and the elbow.
Dr. Smiley's Arm Lift
When you choose Dr. Smiley for your cosmetic surgery, you are choosing a doctor who has perfected his craft over many years. Our focus is on providing each and every one of our patients with the best results possible – something that requires an understanding of skin, anatomy and physiology. Because we take a conservative approach to surgery, Dr. Smiley never uses more skin than is necessary nor does he perform procedures that are less than what might be considered essential to achieve optimal results. Your results will only be as good as your surgeon’s skill level and attention to detail – so make sure that you choose the best!
