Two options for smaller upper arms:
1] Liposuction with or without skin tightening. Benefits: no scar, quicker recovery, usually less expensive.
2] Brachioplasty or arm lift. Benefits: tightest skin and more predictable results.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

There are multiple ways in which to contour the upper arm. Depending on the concerning factors like skin and fat, contouring can be accomplished in a number of ways.

For those patients with excess subcutaneous fat, liposuction remains a mainstay of treatment. Small incisions are made and tumescent is introduced, followed by mechanical aspiration of excess fat. Radiofrequency/laser heating can be used to augment liposuction and tighten the overlying skin.

For more extreme cases, a brachioplasty may be necessary. This in contrast to liposuction is an excisional procedure that involves the removal of excess skin. There is a scar from armpit to elbow.

In my practice, recovery from brachioplasty (excisional procedure for contouring of the upper arm) is typically 4-6 weeks, with a final result becoming apparent at 3-6 months post-op. Patients may have drains present for a few weeks post-op. They are often required to wear a compressive garment for 6-8 weeks post-op.

Exercise can resume at 4 weeks, with strenuous exercise resuming at 6 weeks.

As always, discuss your concerns with a board-certified plastic surgeon (ABPS).

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Liposuction with removal of excess skin from armpit to elbow on the inner side of arm.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

It is called a brachioplasty, and it is used to remove excessive skin and fat in an individual who is of ideal weight. An incision from the armpit to the elbow is placed and the skin excised.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

To reduce the size of the upper arms, either a brachioplasty and/or liposuction can be performed. Which procedure is best depends on the amount of loose skin. There are also nonsurgical treatments such as VelaShape3.

Published on Jul 11, 2012