What is Brachioplasty?
There was a time we once ‘raised the roof’ with our arms held high, singing and dancing into the wee hours of the morn.’ While we may still feel like we’re in our twenties, at some point, gravity tells us otherwise.
Brachioplasty, otherwise known as an arm lift, is a cosmetic surgery to remove the excess skin and fat deposits that cause the arm to droop and sag. Your arm is then tightened for a smoother appearance. Houston brachioplasty patients who opt for this surgery have struggled with loose hanging skin for years, and no matter how much diet, exercise, or weight training, the excess skin still remains. Loose underarm skin and fat affect both men and women; however, women are more prone to this condition and often feel self-conscious about their arms.
Don't Leave Your Arms Hanging. Brachioplasty To The Rescue!
Brachioplasty is a unique arm lift cosmetic surgery that Dr. Mark A. Schusterman performs in order to tighten, smooth, and raise the arms to appear more toned and sculpted. What’s even better, no more pilates planks… at least, not until after surgery.
How Do I Know If Brachioplasty Is Right For Me?
It’s crucial to understand the Brachioplasty procedure. This cosmetic surgery is not for everyone because there is a significant scar left behind. As a double board-certified plastic surgeon in Houston Dr. Schusterman will be able to discuss all your options during your Houston arm lift consultation.
Brachioplasty may be right for you if:
- You are in overall good health.
- You don’t smoke or are willing to stop pre and post-surgery.
- You have a healthy and positive outlook about your Brachioplasty expectations.
- You know clothes would look better on you if your arms weren’t so big.
- You dread warmer weather because you have to figure out how to cover your arms.
Brachioplasty Procedure
Brachioplasty is performed as outpatient surgery, but you will be under general anesthesia and require some to drive you home after your procedure. Dr. Schusterman wants to ensure you receive the best brachioplasty Houston has to offer, and will determine the length of your incision for best results.
The placement of the incision will depend on the amount of excess skin to be removed. Excess fat is removed with liposuction. Loose skin may be removed and closed with absorbable sutures. In some cases, stitches are used and will be removed in one to two weeks after surgery.
Brachioplasty Recovery
Dr. Schusterman will wrap your arms in a compression garment or bandage to minimize swelling. Depending on the amount of excess fat and skin removed, you may have tubes inserted to help drain excess blood or fluid. There will be a post-op plan you will need to adhere to for optimal healing results. For example, you will want to avoid lifting heavy objects or upper body exercise until you have fully healed.
Brachioplasty Results
The results of your brachioplasty will be almost immediate. Barring any swelling, you will see a noticeable difference in your arm size. Swelling and bruising are expected but will diminish as you continue to heal. The results of your brachioplasty will last years as long as you consistently maintain your weight.
Schedule Your Houston Brachioplasty Consultation with Dr. Schusterman
During your consultation, Dr. Schusterman will take photos of your arms and discuss your options to ensure the best arm lift Houston has to offer. Be prepared to ask questions so Dr. Schusterman can create a personalized cosmetic procedure for you. If you are interested in learning more about brachioplasty Houston patients are encouraged to call today to schedule your consultation with Dr. Schusterman.
Brachioplasty FAQs
The incision of your brachioplasty procedure is either on the inside or outside of your arm. The placement is determined by Dr. Schusterman and is based on where the most excess fat and skin need to be removed.
Cosmetic surgery always carries some risk, but complications are rare. Risks may include infection, bleeding, or scarring at the incision.
An arm lift is a cosmetic surgery and not covered by health insurance. Dr. Schusterman does offer financing and payment options for your convenience.
After surgery, it is important to follow all of your surgeon’s instructions regarding appropriate medications to take, potential warning signs to watch for, and how to care for your wounds. There are several tips that can make your recovery go smoothly.
- Sleep with your arms elevated to reduce swelling.
- Take sponge baths until your drains are removed.
- Plan to be off work for two or three weeks.
- Wait six weeks before returning to a regular exercise routine.
The cost of arm skin tightening surgery will depend on the type of surgery and how much skin or fat you’ll need removed. Brachioplasty can vary in price, but the average is around $8000. Fees may not include the use of a facility or medications. Insurance plans normally don’t cover arm lift surgery costs. Many surgeons, however, offer payment plans for their patients.
