Brachioplasty Overview

What Is an Arm Lift?

An arm lift, or brachioplasty, is a cosmetic surgery to reshape, resculpt, and refine the appearance of the upper arms. Ideal for individuals with sagging skin due to weight loss or aging, an arm lift removes excess skin and fat, creating a toned and contoured look. Arm lift surgery in Raleigh & Cary, NC with Dr. Anu Antony is always a customized, individually crafted surgery. It is carefully planned to remove loose skin and excess fat between the underarm and elbow. Unfortunately, exercise and dieting cannot resolve the lack of skin elasticity or more extensive fatty deposits.

Are You a Candidate for an Arm Lift?

Ideal candidates for an arm lift (brachioplasty) in the Raleigh & Cary, NC area with Dr. Anu Antony are individuals with significant loose, sagging skin and excess fat in the upper arms, typically resulting from substantial weight fluctuations or related to aging. Suitable candidates should be at or near their ideal body weight, be non-smokers, and have no medical conditions that could impair healing.

It is vital to have realistic expectations regarding arm lift surgery. While the surgery significantly improves arm contour and boosts confidence, it also leaves a surgical scar hidden in the underside of the upper arms. Candidates should also be committed to maintaining a stable weight and healthy lifestyle to maintain the transformation.

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What Can an Arm Lift Treat?

This procedure addresses various concerns, helping you achieve smoother, more contoured arms. Here's what Brachioplasty in Raleigh can treat:

  • Excess Skin: This procedure removes loose, sagging skin that may result from weight loss or loss of skin elasticity due to aging.
  • Stubborn Fat Deposits: Targets and removes stubborn fat in the upper arm region.
  • Enhanced Confidence: Boosts self-esteem and body image by improving the appearance of the upper arms, allowing you to wear sleeveless garments, knowing you look your best.
  • Contour Definition: Enhances the overall shape and tone of the arms, creating a more defined and aesthetically pleasing arm contour.
  • Improved Comfort: Reduces the friction caused by excess skin and fat, increasing comfort in garments during physical activities.
  • Skin Laxity: Tightens and firms the underlying supportive tissues that define the shape of the arm.

What to Expect from the Arm Lift Procedure?

Consultation

Dr. Anu Antony begins with a thorough evaluation, during which we discuss your aesthetic goals for your arms and what you envision as an outcome. This consultation helps determine the best surgical approach to achieving your vision.

Anesthesia

Arm lift surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia, which ensures comfort and pain-free throughout the procedure.

Incision

Depending on the amount of excess skin, incisions are generally made on the inside or back of the arm and may extend from the underarm to just above the elbow. Dr. Antony places these incisions strategically to minimize visible scarring.

Reshaping

Excess fat may be removed via liposuction, and underlying supportive tissue is tightened and reshaped with internal sutures. Excess skin is then trimmed away, creating a smoother arm contour.

Closure

The incisions are closed with sutures, and the skin is smoothed over the new arm contour. Dr. Antony may use absorbable or external sutures, which are removed after a few weeks.

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What is the Recovery Time After an Arm Lift?

  • Post-Operative Care: Immediately after the surgery, dressings or bandages may be applied to your incisions, and elastic bandages or compression garments are used to help minimize swelling.
  • Recovery Time: Recovery varies by individual, but most patients can return to non-strenuous activities within a week. Resuming vigorous exercise or lifting heavy items will require several weeks.
  • Long-Term Care: Dr. Antony provides detailed aftercare instructions and schedules follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing and optimal results.

Why Choose Dr. Anu Antony for Your Arm Lift?

Choosing Dr. Anu Antony for your arm lift surgery in Raleigh & Cary, NC means placing your trust in a female, board-certified plastic surgeon with over 20 years of experience and elite training from Harvard and Stanford. Dr. Antony is committed to achieving aesthetic excellence, specializing in skin tightening and body contouring techniques that deliver results which are not only effective but also natural-looking and beautifully refined. With a strong focus on minimal scarring and meticulous post-operative care, she ensures each patient experiences the best possible outcomes with reduced downtime and lasting confidence.

Arm Lift FAQs

What does the arm lift procedure involve?

How long does the procedure take?

What is the recovery period like?

Will an arm lift leave a visible scar?

How long will the results last?

What does the arm lift procedure involve?

The surgery is performed under general anesthesia. Dr. Antony will make an incision on the underside or back of the arm, from the armpit to the elbow. Through this incision, she will remove excess skin and fat and tighten the underlying tissues before closing the incision with sutures.

How long does the procedure take?

The surgery typically takes about one to three hours to complete, depending on the amount of skin and fat to be removed and the complexity of the case.

What is the recovery period like?

You can expect some swelling, bruising, and discomfort for the first few weeks. Most patients can return to work and light activities within one to two weeks, but strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided for four to six weeks.

Will an arm lift leave a visible scar?

Yes. Since the procedure involves removing excess skin, there will be a scar. Dr. Antony places the incision on the inner arm to make the scar as discreet as possible. It will fade over time but will not disappear completely.

How long will the results last?

The results of an arm lift are long-lasting. While the effects of aging will continue, the skin and fat removed from the upper arm are gone for good. Maintaining a stable weight will help prolong the rejuvenated appearance of your arms.

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