What can be done about these ripples on my upper arms? Not sure if it’s cellulite or sagging? (photo)

Question

I’m 56 yrs old and in good shape. I’ve always ate healthy and worked out. But due to work and other things haven’t been able to work out like I used to for a couple of years. Not sure what these ripples are from, not working out? fat? Or sagging but I just want them gone! Help! Lol!

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi, thank you for reaching out with your concerns about the appearance of your arms, and for providing your history and pictures.
The wrinkling and rippling of the skin on your arms could be attributed to several factors. These may include the natural loss of fat or muscle mass in the upper arm area, as well as general aging processes. Factors like the loss of collagen, hormonal changes due to menopause, and sun damage can also contribute significantly to the appearance of arm wrinkles.
For treating arm wrinkles, an arm lift, also known as brachioplasty or arm reduction, is a procedure you might consider. This surgery involves the removal of excess upper arm skin and fat. It is performed under general anesthesia and typically takes about 3 hours. You should plan for a recovery period of around two weeks.
When considering an arm lift, it's crucial to consult with an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in this type of procedure. They can provide you with personalized advice and a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and aesthetic goals.
I hope this information answers your questions regarding options for improving the appearance of wrinkles on your upper arms. Wishing you the best of luck in your journey and a successful outcome.
Thank you,
Dr. Katzen

Stephen T. Greenberg, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi there and thanks for your question and photos.  It appears that the ripples on your arms are from a combination of loose skin and fat.  I would recommend one of two options: an arm lift with a vertical scar down the medial aspect of your arm to remove the excess skin and fat, or a combination of liposuction with a skin tightening laser such as J-Plasma.  The latter option only gives you two, 1cm scars while the arm lift will give you a longer, more prominent scar.  I suggest an in-person consultation with an experienced plastic surgeon for more information to see which procedure works best for you...hope this helps!

Jaime S. Schwartz, MD, FACS · Answer

I appreciate your question. 
One of the most common cosmetic surgery procedures I perform in my practice is brachioplasty, sometimes referred to as an arm reduction, arm reshaping, or an arm lift. Most of my patients come to me after a major weight loss or are simply noticing the effects of aging, as in your case, and want to get rid of unsightly loose skin under their arms. An arm lift is a skin tightening/skin removal procedure where I treat the underside of the upper arms by trimming loose skin, removing excess fat, and tightening the underlying tissues, resulting in a tighter, more toned arm appearance. 
  
The goal of this procedure is to restore a more natural look to the arms. My signature arm lift has been designed to tighten the arms while leaving the most amount of lymphatic, nerve, and blood vessels behind. This allows patients to heal quicker with minimal trauma to the area. 
  
The best way to assess your needs and give true advice would be an in-person exam. Please see a board-certified plastic surgeon that specializes in aesthetic and restorative plastic surgery.
  
best of luck!
  
Dr. Schwartz
  
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
  
#RealSelf100Surgeon
  
#RealSelfCORESurgeon

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Based on your pictures it looks like you can benefit from bodytite to your arms to tighten the area, always see a board certified PS.

Aldo Guerra, MD · Answer

I appreciate your question. I think you have two ways to address the concerns: one is surgery with a posterior brachioplasty. This offers a more hidden scar in the back of the arms. A non-surgical option would be Sculptra. This is a dermal filler when injected appropriately can lead to good outcomes.See an expert and good luck.Dr. ALDO

Deborah Sillins, MD · Answer

from the photo it appears you have loose skin causing the ripples. A brachioplasty is a good option to tighten the skin. Make sure you see a board certified Plastic surgeon.

Steven Varkony, MD · Answer

Without an in-person examination, it’s hard to determine
what the cause of the rippling could be. If it’s cause by loose skin, a
brachioplasty aims to reduce excess skin. We recommend scheduling a
consultation with your plastic surgeon to further discuss your goals and
determine the best treatment options for you.

What can be done about these ripples on my upper arms? Not sure if it’s cellulite or sagging? (photo)

Answers (7)

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