Droopy, sagging upper arms can make you feel self conscious in a short sleeve shirt. An arm lift , also call brachioplasty ,with or without liposuction can help create a well-defined, trim and toned upper arm that complements your figure as well as your wardrobe.
People who lose massive amounts of weight tend to have significant amounts of fat hanging under their arms. The soft tissue of the arm becomes lax, setting the stage for sagging. Thin people, too, may have sagging upper arms due to the effects of aging and genetics. Even people who engage in regular exercise including Pilates and strength training cannot get rid of excess, sagging skin that develops in this area.
Liposuction may be sufficient enough for people with smooth skin and just a small amount of flab. The more invasive total arm lift procedure may benefit people with larger areas of fat underneath the arms, poor skin quality and sun damaged skin.
How is it done?
Arm Lift is usually performed under local anaesthesia with intravenous sedation or general anaesthesia for more complex procedures.
To perform an upper arm lift, incisions are made on the inside or back of your arm. Incisions may span from the underarm to just above the elbow. Some people may only require minimal incisions from the area where the inner, upper arm joins the armpit.
After the incision is made, excess fat may be removed with liposuction. Excessive skin is then trimmed, tightened and sutured in place with absorbable sutures, or stitches that will be removed within one or two weeks of the surgery. Your skin is then smoothed over the new contour of your arm.
How long does the surgery take?
An arm lift typically takes one to three hours depending on the extent of the surgery.
What should I expect during recovery?
While there is some swelling and bruising, your new trim and toned arm will be apparent almost immediately after your arm lift. You may feel some mild discomfort right after the procedure. Prescription pain medication will help alleviate this pain.
Swelling peaks two to three days after your arm lift, typically dissipating within two weeks. Elevating your arm with pillows can help reduce swelling and increase comfort during recovery.
Dressings are typically applied to the incision. Many of the stitches will dissolve, but those that are not self-absorbing are usually removed within a week. A compression garment should be worn to allow the skin to adhere to underlying tissues.
Most people can go back to work two to three weeks after the procedure. You should avoid any strenuous exercise for one month, and heavy lifting for at least six weeks.
What are the costs involved?
Surgeon fees start from $3,500* plus GST.Hospital and anaesthetic fees are additional.
*The cost of cosmetic surgery can vary (higher or lower), depending on the complexity of the procedure, the required results, cost of implants, aftercare treatment and the area of the body where the surgery is being performed. Further costs may be incurred for anaesthetist and hospital fees if applicable. For specific pricing information, please arrange a consultation with Dr. Tiong.