What are my options for arm fat removal?

Thank you for your question regarding what your options are for fat removal. They are 71 years old and approximately 50 lbs overweight with non-insulin-dependent diabetes. First, a physical examination and consultation would need to be established. In general, there are several ways to make the arm smaller. If you are only concerned about removing fat, I suggest arm liposuction. This can be done with either traditional or micro air power-assisted liposuction or VASER liposuction. However, your skin is probably elastic due to your age and will not bounce back. Therefore you will probably do best with an arm lift or brachioplasty. There are three types of upper arm lifts. There is a crescent, modified T, and longitudinal upper brachioplasty. During a crescent, a crescent area of skin and fat is removed high up in the upper inner arm. The advantage of a crescent arm lift is that the arm is hidden. The main disadvantage of a crescent arm lift is that not much skin is removed from the arm. A. modified T incision combines the crescent arm lift mentioned above with an incision slightly down the inner arm. The resulting pattern is in the shape of a letter T. Much like the crescent arm lift; a modified T incision results are hampered by the inability to remove significant skin. The ultimate arm treatment would be a longitudinal brachioplasty. During this procedure, typically, arm liposuction is performed, and an incision is made from the armpit to the elbow. A large elliptical of skin and fat is then removed. Depending on the selected method, these procedures take approximately 2-4 hours. These procedures are done under general anesthesia and are performed on an outpatient basis. Thank you for your question regarding your options for arm fat removal.

Thank you for your question regarding arm fat removal. Liposuction is an option for fat removal; however an arm lift (or brachioplasty) will be a procedure that removes both fat and excess skin. To be sure, see two or more experienced, board-certified plastic surgeons in your area for a complete evaluation to make sure you are a good candidate and that it is safe for you to have an arm lift. I hope this helps

Dear Imaginative940653,
it is hard to tell for sure without an examination. If you are considering surgery, I would suggest you consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination, you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Liposuction, with or without radiofrequency skin tightening like Renuvion, would probably do very well for you. Please visit with a plastic surgeon.

There are several options available for arm fat removal, ranging from non-invasive treatments to surgical procedures. Here are some of the common options:
1. Liposuction: This is a surgical procedure where a plastic surgeon removes excess fat from targeted areas using a suction technique. Liposuction can effectively remove fat from the arms, but it involves some downtime for recovery and carries risks associated with surgery.
2. Arm lift (Brachioplasty): This surgical procedure involves removing excess skin and fat from the upper arms to reshape them. It is typically recommended for individuals who have lost a significant amount of weight or have excess skin due to aging. Arm lift surgery provides more dramatic results than liposuction but also involves a longer recovery period and scarring.
3. CoolSculpting: This is a non-invasive fat reduction treatment that uses controlled cooling to freeze and eliminate fat cells. CoolSculpting can be used to target stubborn fat deposits in the arms without surgery. It usually requires multiple treatment sessions and may take several months to see full results.
4. Radiofrequency (RF) treatments: RF treatments use radiofrequency energy to heat and destroy fat cells, leading to fat reduction and skin tightening. These treatments are non-invasive and typically have minimal downtime. They can help reduce arm fat and improve skin laxity.
5. Ultrasound therapy: Similar to RF treatments, ultrasound therapy uses ultrasound energy to target and destroy fat cells. It's a non-invasive option that can help reduce arm fat and tighten skin.
6. Exercise and diet: While not a direct fat removal method, regular exercise and a healthy diet can help reduce overall body fat, including fat in the arms. Strength training exercises that target the arms, such as bicep curls and tricep dips, can also help tone and sculpt the arms.
Before considering any fat removal method, it's essential to consult with a skilled plastic surgeon to determine the most suitable option based on your individual needs, health status, and aesthetic goals. They can provide recommendations and discuss the potential risks and benefits of each treatment option.

Based on your age, I will assume that the skin of your arm has lost its elasticity. A photograph would be very helpful. If this is the case, an arm lift (brachioplasty) will take care of the issue. Your are non-insuline dependent and this will not affect your healing.

An in person examination is always best to discuss your goals for surgery, medical history and concerns. In general, candidates can consider liposuction or an arm lift to address excess fatty tissue. Based on the information given you will need to have your diabetes well controlled, be in general good health, and otherwise a candidate for the procedures that interest you. I've included a video I hope you find helpful.

Granted you are in generally good health, you may be eligible for a brachioplasty to remove both excess skin and fat. A Skype or FaceTime consultation with a BBL specialist can help you get an accurate recommendation and pricing.

Respectfully,
Arian Mowlavi MD, FACS
Realself 100 Hall of Fame Inductee