Are You Well “Armed “For The Summer or Do You Need an Arm Lift?

There is a new buzz that has been created due to increased attention paid to the beauty of women’s arms. Toned and fit arms are perceived by most to be youthful and healthy. Some attribute the increase buzz about beautiful arms to Michelle Obama’s toned arms and frequent choice of sleeveless dresses and blouses. Of course, where there is interest in beauty there will always be plastic surgery options. An increase in patients considering brachioplasty or arm lifts has been reported by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.

Arm Lifts

To the media, tying the increase in brachioplasty procedures to celebrities with toned and fit arms seems like a logical choice. The reality is the procedure is an invasive one that is typically chosen by patients who have lost a significant amount of weight and therefore have a significant amount of loose and lax skin on the underside of the arm. Dr. Seify explains to patients that brachioplasty should only be performed by experienced plastic surgeons who understand the risk and complications versus the expected benefit for each patient. Although new techniques allow for a shorter incision and thus a shorter scar it is important for patients to understand that the removal excess skin with brachioplasty will require the trade-off of a scar. Dr. Seify explains that the scar is well hidden on the underside of the arm and the majority of patients heal incredibly well so that the scar is barely visible after six months to a year. Initially following the surgery there may be puckering of the skin along the incision which will typically loosen up as the skin relaxes. It is imperative that patients understand their specific situation and what the expectations are for their long-term results. Patients who have loose and lax skin as a result of aging and poor laxity in the skin may not be ideal candidates for the brachioplasty procedure. Also, patients who scar poorly may also be a poor choice for the brachioplasty procedure. While the overwhelming numbers of patients are extremely satisfied with their plastic surgery procedure, it is critical for patients to understand that limiting the plastic surgery procedure to patients who are ideal candidates is the best way to ensure that patients will be satisfied with their results. Brachioplasty patients are typically able to return to a desk type job in 5 to 7 days after surgery. Patients who are considering brachioplasty are encouraged to contact Dr. Seify and schedule a consultation.