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

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.

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.

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.