Can I remove my batwings with lipo using local anesthesia?

Question

I am 64 years old, 135 pounds, and 5 ft 2. I exercise but I don’t like my arms. What can be done for my wings? What type of lipo or other procedure can I get using only local anesthesia? I also don't want a long scar.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

An extended arm lift will address the loose skin and will result in a much nicer arm contour. Based upon your photos, you would benefit from a significant amount of tightening.  Because the laxity extends all the way to the elbow, the longer incision is needed. I can put the scar anywhere the patient desires (inside of arm, back of arm).  It is my belief that the incision in the bicipital groove is the most appropriate in most patients as most people during casual observation do not expose the medial aspect of their arms.  The posterior scar is more visible in walking in short sleeve shirts. Kenneth Hughes, MD, ABPS Board Certified Plastic SurgeonLos Angeles, CA

Bruce E. Katz, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question, from the pictures you provided it looks like you would benefit from SmartLipo and BodyTite since you do have some excess fat deposits. BodyTite does not remove fat, you are likely a great candidate for BodyTite if you are looking for a minimally invasive procedure that provides detailed improvements for a tighter, smoother and more youthful skin. SmartLipo is a minimally invasive and incredibly effective way to remove stubborn deposits of fat. Combining these two treatments will give you maximum results. I suggest an in-person consultation with a board-certified surgeon to discuss your options.

Terry Hand, MD · Answer

Hello, and thank you for your question. The under arm area (bat wings) typically implies that there is an excess amount of skin. Liposuction can not remove the excess skin on its own. In order to remove the excess skin on your arm area, you would need a direct excision of the skin (arm lift).  This type of procedure will result in a scar.  The procedure would be done under general anesthesia, which is the most comfortable option for our patients.  To answer your question about Liposuction being done under local anesthesia, yes, liposuction can be done under local anesthesia, however it would take a large amount of sedation to be effective.  I hope this response has helped.  I wish you the best of luck!

Tania Medina de Garcia, MD · Answer

Hello dear!!
Thanks for the question and provided information as well. 
Based on your pictures, you are a great candidate for a brachioplasty (arm lift), because liposuction alone would leave with too much loose skin.
I suggest you to visit a board certified plastic surgeon for a personal evaluation and to talk about your goals.
Good luck :)

Daniel Schmid, MD · Answer

Based on your pictures you would need an arm lift to get rid of the bat wings.  Liposuction alone will not tighten the skin, even with laser lipo or smart lipo.  The incision is kept along the inner aspect of the arm and it will improve the contour of your arms greatly.  Good luck

Can I remove my batwings with lipo using local anesthesia?

Answers (6)

Answer: Can I remove my batwings with lipo using local anesthesia?

Answer: Can I remove my batwings with lipo using local anesthesia?

Answer: Arm lift

Answer: Arm lift

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Liposuction

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Can I remove my batwings with lipo using local anesthesia?

Answers (6)

Answer: Can I remove my batwings with lipo using local anesthesia?

Answer: Can I remove my batwings with lipo using local anesthesia?

Answer: Arm lift

Answer: Arm lift

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Liposuction

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.