Arm Lift in Westlake Village, CA

One big challenge when getting older or losing a lot of weight is that you start to see loose skin. At Ethan Baughman Plastic Surgery, we offer upper arm lift surgery (also called brachioplasty) as an option for men and women who have loose, hanging skin on the upper arms. Excess skin from the elbow to the shoulder is very typical, particularly for people who are getting older or have lost significant amounts of weight. An upper arm lift excises this hanging skin, popularly known as "bat wings." Dr. Ethan Baughman, a plastic and reconstructive surgeon in Westlake Village, CA, is very knowledgeable in skin tightening techniques that produce smooth, natural-looking results. If you want to hear more information about how brachioplasty can correct the shape of your upper arms, please contact us for an appointment at Ethan Baughman Plastic Surgery.

An upper arm lift is a plastic surgery that employs advanced methods to eliminate unwanted skin and reveal a better contour. Loose, hanging skin in your upper arms may be the result of natural aging or a by-product of losing a large amount of weight in a short time. If you are tired of hiding your "bat wings" with long sleeves, you may be a good candidate for an arm lift. You should be at or close to a healthy, stable weight before your surgery.

In most cases, your upper arm surgery will be performed as an outpatient procedure in an accredited surgical facility, except in cases where several cosmetic surgeries are to be performed at one time (for example, after weight loss surgery or mommy makeover). An upper arm lift is typically done with general anesthesia and can require a few hours to finish. The unwanted skin will be surgically removed starting at the elbow and continuing to the armpit. The incision will be placed to face toward your body so it is less visible. If it is part of your surgical plan, liposuction may be performed to remove stubborn pockets of fat, which can give your thinner, smoother contours. Finally, your incisions will be closed and cleaned before you are taken to the recovery area.

After arm lift surgery, you should plan to take at least two weeks to rest and recover. Your arms will be placed in compression garments to help decrease inflammation and promote blood circulation. You should also keep your arms elevated as much as possible and follow all post-surgical care instructions from Dr. Baughman. Once your compression garments are removed, you should be able to see some visible improvements, which should get better over time as your body heals. Avoid exercise and strenuous activity until you get permission from Dr. Baughman.

How much does arm lift surgery cost?
The total cost for an arm lift will be based on several things. Before he can estimate your costs, Dr. Baughman will start with a consultation to understand your concerns and goals. Following this, he will develop your unique surgical plan and break down your costs. In order to get the results you want, choose an experienced plastic and reconstructive surgeon, like Dr. Baughman.

Can I combine an arm lift with other surgeries?
It's normal for patients who want an arm lift to create a custom treatment plan with another surgery. This is often known as an upper body lift and can combine liposuction, a breast lift, or tummy tuck. Arm lift surgery is also frequently included in an after weight loss surgery for those who have lost a significant amount of weight and need contouring throughout their body. In your initial consultation with Dr. Baughman, complementary surgeries can be discussed so your personal treatment plan matches all your needs and goals.

Will there be scars?
A surgical arm lift requires incisions in order to cut away excess skin, which leads to scars from sutures. However, Dr. Baughman will make every effort to place the small incisions in inconspicuous areas. Following your arm lift, creams that help with healing will be suggested along with our tips to minimize scarring. Dr. Baughman also suggests you limit UV exposure for at least one year to protect the scar from becoming discolored. In general, patients consider the overall benefits of an arm lift are worth the minimal scars created.

What results can I expect from an arm lift?
A surgical lift is performed to excise loose, hanging skin from your upper arms. You should maintain a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise and a balanced diet to avoid a dramatic change in your weight, which might undo your results. After your lift, as soon as you are recovered and Dr. Baughman has given permission, you should start strength training. This is a good way to improve the shape of your upper arms by strengthening the muscles.

Are there nonsurgical treatments to improve my arms?
Although there are a lot of noninvasive skin tightening options, they can only give you small improvements. To correct moderate to severe skin laxity, arm lift surgery is your best choice. If you're interested in learning about nonsurgical procedures, Dr. Baughman can tell you about these in your consultation and then help you choose which fits your goals.

No matter what you call the droopy skin or "bat wings" under your upper arms, plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Baughman can help improve your appearance with an arm lift. If you're at or close to a healthy, stable weight but still can't get rid of the skin and flab that hang off your arms, please contact us to schedule a consultation at Ethan Baughman Plastic Surgery.