When you age, the upper arm skin becomes loose and flabby. A brachioplasty (also known as arm lift), is a surgical procedure to reduce the circumference of the upper arm by removing and tightening the loose skin. Dr. Shah may also suggest that liposuction be used to remove the excess fat deposits. Brachioplasty and liposuction procedures can be done together or individually to improve the “Bat Wing Deformity.”

A brachioplasty will improve the appearance of the upper arm and will require a scar that can extend from the arm pit to the elbow. These scars usually heal well after a period of wearing a compression garment. Liposuction will require several very small incisions that can also be indistinguishable once healed.

The Surgery

Depending on your specific conditions, incisions made by Dr. Shah may be limited. Underlying supportive tissue is tightened and reshaped with internal sutures. Finally, the skin is smoothed over the new contour of your arm. Your incisions will be closed with absorbable sutures, or stitches that will be removed within one to two weeks following surgery.

The smoother, tighter contours that result from brachioplasty are apparent almost immediately following the procedure, although initial results may be somewhat obscured by swelling and bruising. Your new, shapely and toned upper arm is dramatically improved both in appearance and feel.

Although the decision to have arm lift surgery is extremely personal, you will have to decide if the benefits will achieve your goals and if the risks and potential complications are acceptable. However, carefully following Dr. Shah’s post operative instructions greatly reduces the possibility of risk and complication following surgery. Dr. Shah will address any concerns you may have during your personalized consultation.

Brachioplasty is usually performed on an outpatient basis at our fully accredited, state-of-the-art surgical suite using the latest equipment available. Since you will be placed under general anesthesia, be sure to arrange for someone to drive you to and from surgery and to stay with you for at least the first night following surgery.

Visit our plastic / cosmetic surgery offices located in Oak Lawn and Orland Park, Illinois (IL). We are conveniently near the Chicago area.