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Excess arm skin can be a nuisance. It is both unsightly and uncomfortable. It does not fit into clothing, and it flops around; moreover, the loose skin serves as a reminder of excess weight, long after the weight is lost.

Fortunately, there is a solution. Brachioplasty, also known as an Arm Lift, is an outpatient surgical procedure that is an arm changer for patients that desire to improve the appearance of their arms.

Arm Lift Before and After Pictures

Arm Lift Before and After Photos

The Arm Lift removes the excess fat and skin from the arm. The result, shown above, is a tighter, smaller and easier to sleeve arm.

There are many examples of Brachioplasty procedures on the San Francisco Plastic Surgery Blog and my main website: (DrMele.com). Some surgeons place the scar on the front of the arm, but I prefer to place the scar along the bottom of the arm so it is better hidden. The scar is the number one complaint about Arm Lifts, so out of sight, out of mind is preferred.

How to do an Arm Lift

The best way to do an Arm Lift is to consult with an experienced and Board Certified and Plastic Surgeon. Did you really think I was going to share the instruction manual? I will illustrate the procedure, while only getting a little graphic.

Brachioplasty: Where to Cut?

As I mentioned above, I prefer to place the scar along the bottom of the arm. In most cases this keeps the incision hidden when the arms are at the side.

Where to cut for an Arm Lift - Illustrated Photos

This is where I prefer to cut. Every arm is different, and how to adjust the excision for each patient is critical, so do not try this at home.

You may have noticed the arm skin and the armpit are both lifted. The Arm Lift Scar needs to be extended down the side in order to raise the armpit.

What is Removed During an Arm Lift?

The excess skin, and the fat attached to it, are removed during Brachioplasty. Warning: there’s a picture of the removed skin below. Like all plastic surgery, just enough but not too much needs to be removed. If the arm skin is too tight, it functions as a tourniquet and can lead to serious complications.

Arm skin removed with Brachioplasty

This is the skin and fat removed in a typical arm lift. Often one side is larger than the other.

The resections are rarely symmetrical, as the dominant arm is usually larger. Careful attention is paid to tailoring the removal to release the underlying muscle structure.

Arm Lift Consultations

An in person consultation is needed to determine the best treatment option for you. Consult with a board certified plastic surgeon near you who can evaluate your arms, discuss your goals, and determine if you are a good candidate for Brachioplasty. In the San Francisco Bay Area call (925) 943-6353, and schedule your personalized consultation appointment, today.

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