Brachioplasty - Arm Lift

Serving Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

If you find yourself concerned about flabby arms that just will not tighten up, there is hope. Also known as an arm lift, the brachioplasty procedure removes excess skin from the upper arm where the skin tends to sag and hang down. Primarily seen after excessive weight loss or during old age, Dr. Barber can address this problem with surgery.

What it does

A brachioplasty:

• Reduces sagging of excess skin and fat between the underarm and the elbow
• Tightens the underlying tissue, reshaping the arm
• Eliminates excess fat pockets

The procedure involves making a "T" shaped incision from the underarm to the elbow. Underlying fat and excess skin are removed and the skin is sutured back into place. A drain is usually inserted and kept in place for about one week.

Liposuction is not part of the procedure, but may be performed at the same time if the doctor finds it necessary. Whether or not liposuction will be performed should be discussed prior to surgery.

Who is a good candidate?

Candidates best suited for a brachioplasty procedure are described below.

• Adults who are have recently lost a lot of weight but cannot seem to eliminate the unappealing sags on their arms
• Adults whose arms are disproportionate to the rest of their body due to hereditary body style are also good candidates
• You should have a stable weight
• You should not be a smoker
• You should not have any medical condition that can impair healing or increase the risk of complications during surgery

Recovery

After arm lift surgery, you will be able to use your hands for simple tasks. Lifting, however, is out of the question for at least a month. You should plan to take three to four weeks off work, and maybe more if your job involves any type of lifting.

As with all surgical procedures, there are risks involved, including, but not limited to:

• Discomfort
• Bleeding
• Infection
• Scarring
• Numbness

Swelling will occur after surgery, but should abate within the first few days post-operation.

When deciding on brachioplasty to improve the shaping and contouring of your arm, it is important to find a reputable surgeon who is part of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Pittsburgh plastic surgeon James Barber is a board certified member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.

To learn more about the arm lift procedure and other body sculpting options, call or email us today to schedule your personal consultation with Dr. Barber.