Upper Arm Lift Overview
Have you ever seen a person wave to another so gently and with very little life, that you would think they didn’t really mean it? There are a couple of possible reasons why they do this, but for many, it is because their upper arms would wave along with their wrist. Many people have sagging, flabby arms, and these are very difficult to get rid of, even through exercise. Some would find themselves losing weight, and still have sagging upper arms.
And for people with this problem, a solution is available: the upper arm lift.
What is the upper arm lift?
The upper arm lift is a procedure that tightens up loose skin in the upper arms. This results in a tighter, firmer, and rejuvenated look. This is mostly beneficial to anyone who has flabbiness in the upper arms caused by the extra skin and fat in the area. When this procedure is done, it improves the overall appearance of the upper body area, and can actually make arm movement easier, and allow for more functionality.
The upper arm lift procedure
As with most procedures, the upper arm lift begins with an initial consultation with the surgeon. This is when the surgeon looks at the patient’s medical history, and discusses the changes desired. The surgeon says if it is realistically possible or not. He/she also describes the actual process, and explains the possible risks, and once the patient is agreeable to all the terms, the surgery can be set.
To some, a pre-surgery preparation might be needed, which gives a set of rules regarding diet, intake medication, and others, before the surgery actually takes place.
On the day of the upper arm lift, the doctor marks the area of the arms with the excess skin. Then, the patient is given either a local or general anesthesia. The surgeon then makes incisions that can run from the armpit to the elbow, usually located on the inner area of the arm.
Excess skin is then removed, along with excess fat, which is suctioned off the arm. Excess fluid is drained in order to facilitate proper adhering of the skin to the tissue. Once finished, the remaining skin is stretched, and secured in place using sutures. Bandages are placed over the incisions, and the procedure is complete.
The whole procedure usually takes just 1 to 2 hours, depending on amount of work needed. There is no need to stay in after, and patients are able to go home on the same day.
Possible risks and complications, and recovery time
Infection and bleeding are two of the most common complications for upper arm lifts procedure. Great care should be taken in following the surgeon’s instructions and precautions to prevent this as much as possible. Severe pain and swelling can also occur, which can be treated using ibuprofen. Aspirin is not advised for this, as it can cause more bleeding and bruising. Scarring will occur as well, and if not done right, the arms could have an asymmetrical look, so be sure to get the proper surgeon for this procedure.
Recovery time can be between 2 weeks to 1 month.