For many people, arms are one of the toughest body parts to slim and sculpt, even with diet and exercise. One cannot isolate the arms for spot reduction; instead, slimmer arms come through overall body fat loss. But even then, there’s no guarantee that the arms will look slim, sculpted, and streamlined.
That’s why, if you’re struggling with the size or contours of your arms, it may be time to consider surgical options. This is especially ideal for patients who may be older, as the effects of gravity can be more significant. As we age, the skin begins to lose its elasticity; this means that the skin (and any arm fat) may start sagging over the arms, which results in what’s commonly referred to as “batwings”.
Fortunately, there are plenty of treatments available for patients who want to reduce arm fat and tighten skin at the same time. These options include:
- Liposuction: This is an ideal treatment for younger patients who may want to remove fat from arms. The best patients will have already experienced weight loss, but are having trouble achieving significant results with their arms. Liposuction can help patients achieve a smoother and more contoured look, allowing them to wear sleeveless tops.
Liposuction can be performed under general or local anesthesia, depending on the case. There’s minimal swelling; however, patients should expect drainage, and three to five days of downtime. Patients will also need to wear compression sleeves to keep skin tight.
- Brachioplasty: This is the surgical removal of loose skin. This procedure is often performed with liposuction, especially in patients who may have less skin elasticity or with more fat to remove. Brachioplasty involves making an incision in the arm pit, or a long scar that travels from the arm pit to the elbow; the latter is usually in cases where there is more excessive loose skin.
Patients should expect to take seven to ten days of downtime, with draining. Patients will also need to wear compression sleeves for several weeks to help shape the arms. The best candidate for this procedure is someone who is healthy and doesn’t mind the scar that comes with this procedure.
If you’re ready for more contoured arms, schedule a liposuction or brachioplasty consultation with Sean Doherty, MD, at his plastic surgery center in Chestnut Hill, MA (serving the greater Boston metro). To learn more just fill out the form in the top right corner or call (617) 735.8735.