Which procedure is most effective in removing excess fat from the upper arm area?

Question

What's the best way to remove fat from upper arm? Liposuction? Arm lift? Accumulating fat seems to be stored in one area.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello momzie2three,

Thank you for your question regarding the best way to remove fat from the upper arm area.

When it comes to removing excess fat from the upper arms, there are a few different procedures to consider, each with its own advantages and suitability depending on your specific condition and goals. It's also hard to give you good advice without photos. I'll break down the different procedures for you.

Liposuction: This procedure is ideal for individuals who have good skin elasticity and only need to remove excess fat. Liposuction involves using a cannula to suction out fat deposits from the upper arms. It's minimally invasive and can produce great results if your skin can contract well after the fat is removed. However, it does not address excess skin, which might become more noticeable if your skin does not retract well.

Arm Lift (Brachioplasty): An arm lift is more suitable for individuals who have both excess fat and loose or sagging skin. This procedure not only removes fat but also excises the excess skin, resulting in a more toned and firm appearance. It’s particularly effective for those who have experienced significant weight loss or have lost skin elasticity due to aging. The trade-off is that it involves a longer incision, which may result in a visible scar from the armpit to the elbow.

VASER Liposuction: This is an advanced form of liposuction that uses ultrasound technology to break down fat cells before they are removed. VASER liposuction is known for being more precise and less invasive than traditional liposuction, making it a good option if you’re looking for a procedure that can effectively remove fat while also preserving the surrounding tissues. It's particularly useful for contouring and defining the upper arms.

Non-Surgical Options: There are also non-surgical treatments like CoolSculpting or radiofrequency treatments that can reduce fat in the upper arms. These treatments are less invasive and have minimal downtime, but they generally offer more subtle results and may require multiple sessions.

In summary, the choice of procedure depends on the amount of fat, skin laxity, and your personal goals. Liposuction is best for removing fat with good skin elasticity, while an arm lift is ideal for addressing both fat and excess skin. VASER liposuction offers precision and minimal invasiveness, making it a great option for those looking for effective fat removal and contouring.

Consulting with a Board-Certified plastic surgeon can help determine the best procedure for your specific needs. Good luck with your decision!

Sincerely,

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FASMBS, FICS

James M. Economides, MD, FACS · Answer

When it comes to removing fat from the upper arms, there are several options depending on the amount of fat, skin laxity, and your desired outcome. Here’s a breakdown of the most effective options:

1. Liposuction:
Best For: Individuals with good skin elasticity but stubborn fat deposits that don’t respond to diet and exercise.
How It Works: Liposuction removes fat from targeted areas through small incisions using a cannula to suction out the fat.
Benefits: It’s less invasive than an arm lift, has a shorter recovery time, and is effective at contouring the arms if skin elasticity is good.
Considerations: Liposuction alone may not be ideal if there’s significant skin laxity, as removing the fat can cause the skin to sag further.
2. Arm Lift (Brachioplasty):
Best For: People with both excess fat and loose, sagging skin, especially after significant weight loss or aging.
How It Works: An arm lift removes both excess skin and fat, tightening the upper arms to create a smoother and more toned appearance. It can be combined with liposuction for enhanced contouring.
Benefits: Provides more dramatic results for those with significant skin laxity.
Considerations: This procedure involves a larger scar along the inside of the arm, though the scar typically fades over time.
3. Non-Surgical Options:
CoolSculpting or Radiofrequency-Based Treatments (like BodyTite or Exilis) can help reduce fat and tighten the skin. However, these treatments tend to work best for individuals with only mild to moderate fat and minimal skin laxity.
Benefits: Non-invasive with minimal downtime.
Considerations: Results are typically more subtle, and multiple sessions may be required.

Jeffrey M. Darrow, MD · Answer

If patients have localized fat deposits, or a overall large upper arm, it can be reduced in size with liposuction. Whether the final arm contour is acceptable after that will depend upon how elastic the skin is and if the skin snaps back to the new contour. For patients who do not have elastic skin, the liposuction is frequently followed by an arm lift to tighten the skin after the reduction of the arm.

Chet Mays, MD · Answer

Thank you for your inquiry!  The amount of fat  would determine the procedure needed.   Liposuction vs  brachioplasty.  We would love you to see you and help you meet your goals.   Schedule a consult with a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon.

Ryan Rebowe, MD · Answer

This will depend on the ration of fat and skin in the area of concern. If skin quality is good and the problem is mostly fat, then liposuction with or without an energy device would be the best option. If the area in question is mostly skin with some subcutaneous fat, then I would favor a more invasive energy device (such as BodyTite or AccuTite) or formal arm lift procedure. This truly takes an in person physical exam to determine which is best.

Randy Wong, MD · Answer

Aloha, and thanks for the question.  Liposuction can be effective for excess fat pad accumulations, but if the skin is stretched out due to loss of elasticity, sun damage, and/or gravity, the loose skin will need to be addressed by tightening with excision or other methods.  Seek the advice of a plastic surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery for all your options before making a decision.

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

Unfortunately, you have not provided photographs. However, you have 2 choices: liposuction which can remove fat. However, if there is excess skin then the skin will hang and a brachioplasty (arm lift) will be required to remove the fat and skin. More information is needed to give an accurate answer.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

Depending of the fat deposit distribution and laxity of skin, an experienced board certified plastic surgeon will have to select between liposuction only or liposuction associated with skin excision (removal), arm lift. In person consultation is best way to find the answer. Good luck.

Harry T. Haramis, MD, FACS · Answer

All depends on quality of skin, degree of looseness, goals.

In my experience, many patients have great results after Vaser ultrasound liposuction of the arms. This removes stubborn fat and tightens skin in majority of patients without arm lift scars.

In severe cases, extra skin after massive weight loss, arm lift (brachiaplasty) may required.

An exam and consultation with a plastic surgeon who performs these procedures is recommended to confirm you are a candidate as well as discuss your options and expectations.

Guler Gamze Eren, MD · Answer

Hi from Istanbul,There are some treatments options depending on the skin quality and amount of fat on the arms. When you have a good elasticity of skin with excess fat, liposuction is the best solution. When it comes to a sagging skin with accumulating fat, arm lift will be the optimal treatment. You should get be examined by a plastic surgeon to get treatment options which suits you best.

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