Arm Lift

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1. Arm Lift Surgery (brachioplasty) 
2. Signs You Might Be Ready For An Arm Lift
3. The Procedure 
4. How Long Does Arm Lift Swelling Last?
5. Arm Lift Recovery
6. Why Choose Straith Clinic For Your Arm Lift In Michigan?
7. Arm Lift Vs. Non-surgical Skin Tightening: Which Is Right For You?
8. Do I Need An Arm Lift After Weight Loss From Glp-1 Medications?
9. Arm Lift Surgery In Bingham Farms, Mi 

Arm Lift Surgery (Brachioplasty) 

An arm lift, also called brachioplasty surgery, is performed for the removal of excess skin and fat of the upper arm. Some patients experience sagging skin in the upper arms after significant weight loss. This extra tissue can make it difficult to wear certain clothing items and may cause chafing and irritation.

Benefits of Arm Lift Surgery

Brachioplasty surgery is a powerful solution for individuals struggling with excess skin and fat in the upper arms, often referred to as “bat wings.” Whether the loose skin developed due to weight loss, aging, or genetics, this cosmetic surgery helps remove excess fat and skin, resulting in smoother contours and firmer skin.

In addition to cosmetic improvements, many patients experience practical benefits, such as improved comfort, a better clothing fit, and relief from chafing or irritation in the underarm region. Patients may find that they are now comfortable wearing short sleeve shirts, where they had avoided short sleeves prior to surgery. Arm lift surgery also supports a more active, healthy lifestyle by reducing the bulk of excess sagging skin that may have hindered movement or regular exercise.

Signs You Might Be Ready for an Arm Lift

You might be a candidate for an arm lift procedure if:

• You’ve experienced weight loss that left you with a significant amount of remaining skin
• You avoid wearing short sleeve shirts because of the excess skin of your arms
• Your arms cause discomfort or chafing
• You are at a stable weight

The Procedure 

A long strip of skin and fat is excised from the inner arm. While a scar will always be present, the scar fades over time and is carefully placed so that it rests on the inner aspect of the arm hidden against the body when the arms are at your side. The incision can extend down to and around the elbow to reduce wrinkles and excessive skin.

Arm Lift Techniques and Incision Options

Different arm lift techniques may be used depending on the amount of excess skin and fat present:

Traditional Brachioplasty: Involves an incision along the inner side of the upper arm, often extending from the underarm region to the elbow.

Extended Arm Lift: This technique may involve extending the incision onto the chest wall to address excess sagging skin that extends beyond the upper arm area.

In some cases, liposuction may be performed simultaneously to remove excess fat and enhance the results.

expectations

What to Expect for your Arm Lift Surgery

Anesthesia

Usually local with IV sedation.

Length of Surgery

1 to 2 hours.

In / Outpatient

Generally out-patient in our accredited on-site surgery center.

How Long Does Arm Lift Swelling Last?

Swelling is a natural part of arm lift recovery and usually peaks within the first few days after surgery. Most patients see a noticeable reduction in swelling within the first month, although mild swelling can persist for several months. To minimize swelling, we recommend wearing a compression garment and avoiding strenuous activity. Elevating the arms and following your post-operative care plan can also help reduce fluid buildup.

Arm Lift Recovery

Most patients are back to work in two to four weeks. Strenuous exercises and activities, such as sports, are restricted for three to six weeks. 

Tips for Reducing Scars After an Arm Lift

Although arm lift surgery does leave a visible scar along the inner arm, there are steps you can take to help the scar fade over time:

• Follow all post-operative care instructions provided by your surgeon.
• Use recommended scar treatments or silicone tape/gels once your incision is fully healed.
• Wear sun protection on the area to avoid darkening the scar.
• Avoid smoking, as it can impair healing and worsen scarring.
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise and a nutritious diet to support skin repair.

4-8 Weeks

Arm Lift Recovery

Back to work in two to four weeks. Strenuous exercises and activities, such as sports, must be restricted for four to eight weeks. 

Why Choose Straith Clinic for Your Arm Lift in Michigan?

For decades, the Straith Clinic has been a trusted name in plastic surgery, providing expert care in a fully accredited surgical facility. Our board-certified plastic surgeons, Dr. Sabbagh and Dr. Baca, have extensive experience in arm lift and body contouring procedures. With thousands of satisfied patients from Bingham Farms, Dearborn, and across the Detroit area, Straith Clinic is a top choice for brachioplasty surgery in Michigan.

Arm Lift vs. Non-Surgical Skin Tightening: Which Is Right for You?

While options like radiofrequency and laser treatments can mildly improve skin tone, they do not effectively remove excess skin or significantly reshape the upper arms. A surgical arm lift procedure is often the best choice for patients with a significant amount of sagging skin, especially after weight loss. During your consultation, we’ll help you weigh the pros and cons of each option to determine what fits your goals and realistic expectations.

Do I Need an Arm Lift After Weight Loss From GLP-1 Medications?

GLP-1 medications, such as semaglutide, have helped many patients achieve rapid weight loss. However, losing weight quickly can lead to a significant amount of extra skin, particularly in the arms, where the skin may not retract fully. If you’ve reached a stable weight and are dealing with sagging skin in the upper arms that affects your comfort, appearance, or mobility, arm reduction surgery and body contouring procedures may be an ideal next step.

Arm Lift Surgery in Bingham Farms, MI 

With an established track record of 90 years, an accredited facility, and thousands of satisfied patients throughout Dearborn, metro Detroit, Michigan, and the U.S., the Straith Clinic has earned an excellent reputation for cosmetic surgery of the face and body. Call us today at 248-270-5272 or send us an email to schedule a consultation during which you can discuss our facial and body services and tour our facility, including our on-site operating facility.