An arm lift procedure is a type of cosmetic surgery that helps in the treatment of underarms that are sagging by getting rid of excess skin, taking away extra fat, and smoothing and tightening tissue. It is also known as brachioplasty and is preferred by many individuals looking for an effective and easy way to make the upper arms look defined and more toned. You may end up with sagging skin for a variety of reasons, the most common being aging and genetics.  They may also be a result of a sudden loss of a lot of weight. However, irrespective of the reason behind your sagging skin, there are several factors that you must consider before opting for an arm lift procedure.

Some factors to consider when you are deciding whether an arm lift is the best option for you are-

You have excess skin and fat in the upper arm area

One of the most common reasons behind considering an arm lift is when you have excess fat and skin in your upper arm area which leads to a feeling of discomfort or self-consciousness. This is usually true in the case of individuals who have undergone considerable weight loss. As a result of this, the skin may not return to its original shape and end up looking sagged and loose. By going for an arm lift procedure you can reverse this situation and enjoy a more toned and defined arm contour.

You have a stable weight

Any type of cosmetic surgery calls for a stable weight as it is the same in the case of an arm lift procedure as well. Fluctuations in the weight can adversely affect the results of an arm lift, as your skin tends to stretch when you gain weight and sag when you lose weight. Most plastic surgeons recommend that you maintain a stable weight for a minimum of six months before undergoing an arm lift procedure.

Your expectations are realistic

Before you decide on going for an arm lift procedure, it is important that you weigh your expectations. It is extremely important that your expectations about the results of the procedure are realistic. This is because even though this surgery can improve the appearance of the arms, it is not a substitute for weight loss or exercise. Besides, you will not be able to notice the results of your arm lift procedure immediately after surgery. It may not be a number of weeks before the swelling subsides and the final results become apparent.

Your overall health condition is good

Like any surgery, an arm lift carries some risks, including infection, bleeding, and poor wound healing. To minimize these risks, it is important to be in good overall health before undergoing the procedure. This may include having a medical evaluation to ensure that you are a good candidate for surgery.

You have not been able to succeed with other options

If you have already tried other options such as exercise and weight loss programs to improve the appearance of your arms and have not had any visible results, you can consider an arm lift procedure as a viable solution. It is however imperative that you explore all other options available to you before falling back on an arm lift and the subsequent surgery. This is because, like any major surgical procedure, an arm lift is not completely devoid of potential risks and limitations.

You have realistic expectations about scarring

Brachioplasty can easily improve the appearance of your arms, you cannot ignore the fact that it also leaves behind a significant amount of scars that will be visible. The exact location of the scars and their extent depends on the skill of the plastic surgeon performing the procedure. It is also dependent on the specific surgical technique that has been used, although the usual area where they are located is on the underside of the arm. It is important to have realistic expectations about scarring and to be prepared for the potential for visible scars after the procedure.

The Bottom Line

An arm lift procedure is most certainly an effective way to improve the appearance of the upper arm area resulting in a boost in self-confidence. However, you must first consider the various factors that we have discussed here and then make your final decision about whether you wish to go for the surgery.

If you are interested in getting an arm lift done at Shah Plastic Surgery please contact us to schedule an appointment with Dr. Nilay Shah.