If you’ve experienced rapid weight loss or natural aging, you may have noticed loose, sagging skin on your upper arms. Many people try push-ups, arm circles, bicep curls, or heavier weights in hopes of firming the area. While these exercises can build muscle, they cannot eliminate loose skin, which often leads to frustration. 

You’re not alone. 

Once the skin has stretched and lost elasticity, exercise alone is not enough to fix it. 

Why Do Arms Develop Loose Skin? 

Loose arm skin can develop for several reasons, including: 

• Rapid weight loss, which stretches the skin beyond its ability to tighten 
• Aging, which naturally decreases skin elasticity 
• Sun exposure and sun damage, which thin and weaken the skin 
• Genetics, which influence how well skin rebounds after being stretched 

When skin loses its structural support, it cannot fully bounce back on its own. 

Do Non-Surgical Treatments Work? 

Non-surgical skin-tightening treatments such as radiofrequency and energy-based devices can help stimulate collagen and improve mild skin laxity, but they cannot remove excess hanging skin. 

Once skin has stretched and lost its strength, collagen stimulation alone is not enough to tighten it. The upper arm is especially difficult to treat because the skin is thinner and contains less supportive tissue than other parts of the body. 

Many people also try fat-reduction treatments such as CoolSculpting. While these can reduce fat, they do not address loose skin. In some cases, it may make sagging appear more noticeable. 

Lotions and “firming” creams may improve skin texture, but they cannot restore elasticity or remove excess skin once it has been lost. 

What Is an Arm Lift (Brachioplasty)? 

An arm lift, also called brachioplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to remove excess skin and reshape the upper arms. It tightens and smooths the skin from the elbow to the armpit, creating a firmer, more contoured appearance. 

Incision patterns vary with the amount of excess skin a patient has. In some cases, liposuction is combined with an arm lift to further refine the shape. 

Who Is a Good Candidate? 

Arm lift surgery is ideal for people who: 

• Have loose, hanging upper-arm skin 
• Have experienced weight loss or age-related skin laxity 
• Maintain weight 
• Are in overall good health 

These factors help promote safer surgery and longer-lasting results. 

It is best to get this surgery when you are able to maintain weight. Any substantial weight loss after surgery can cause new areas of the skin to sag. Massive weight gain can also cause the skin to lose elasticity, stretch, and cause wide stretch marks.  

What if I smoke? 

If patients smoke, they should quit smoking a couple of weeks before their scheduled surgery.  

They should also ask their surgeon about the possibility of stopping any medications or over-the-counter medicines.  

They should also inform their surgeon if they have a fever before surgery or other health problems.  

What About Scarring? 

Scars are usually placed along the inner or back portion of the arm, where they are less visible. While scars take time to fade, most patients feel the improvement in arm shape and confidence is well worth the trade-off. 

Limiting sun exposure to the area will prevent the scars from darkening.  

Will insurance cover the cost of my surgery? 

In most cases, insurance will not cover the cost of arm lift or brachioplasty. It’s best to schedule a consult and talk to your plastic surgeon about cost and payment options. 
 

What are the symptoms of post-surgery? 

Bruising, some discomfort, redness, and swelling are very common and temporary after surgery. This will most likely last for a week or two. 

Recovery After Arm Lift Surgery 

Recovery typically takes about 4–6 weeks. 

During this time: 

• Compression garments are worn for 3–4 weeks to reduce swelling and support healing 
• Heavy lifting and raising the arms overhead should be avoided 
• Loose, front-button or zip-up clothing is recommended 
• Showers are usually allowed after 72 hours (baths should be avoided) 

In most cases, an arm lift is performed as an outpatient procedure. In rare cases, some patients stay overnight.  

They should have someone who is able to drive them home. In this case, the patient will not be able to drive for a couple of days, so they need to make sure that they have someone at home to help them get around and help them with their daily routines.  

Most patients can resume normal daily activities around six weeks after surgery. 

However, each patient is different, and the plastic surgeon will give instructions tailored to their progress and needs.  

What Results Can I Expect? 

Patients typically experience: 

• Slimmer, more sculpted arms 
• Firmer, smoother contours 
• Improved fit in clothing- Increased confidence wearing sleeveless tops 

Results are long-lasting as long as weight remains stable. 

It is recommended that patients commit to a healthy lifestyle and maintain physical fitness as much as possible before undergoing surgery. 

Post Full Recovery: 

As long as you maintain regular exercise, a healthy diet, and lifestyle, you can enjoy your results for many years. Regular exercise helps keep the arms toned and maintain their shape. 

Arm Lift not only reshapes your upper arms, but it also gives you more confidence and higher self-esteem. You’ll have the confidence to wear short-sleeved shirts, swimsuits, tank tops, etc. Despite minimal scarring, patients have found that the surgery is worth it in the end and gives them a better quality of life.  

Ready to Take the Next Step?  

If loose arm skin is holding you back from feeling confident, a consultation with Dr. Spears can help determine whether an arm lift is right for you. 

???? Call: 856-345-2240 
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