Arm lift + lipoma removal - what is the best procedure to treat this?

Question

I am 58 yrs young this year and have multiple lipomas in each arm. I stopped counting these when reaching 45 on each arm. I also have large upper arms with excess fat from elbow to underarm area. I would really like to get the lipomas removed and arm size reduced in the same setting if possible. What is best advice/procedure?

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question regarding the removal of upper arm lipomas and slimming down your arms. Based on your needs, an arm reduction procedure seems like the most suitable option. During this surgery, an incision is made from the armpit to the elbow, allowing for the removal of arm lipomas along with excess skin and fat. The decision to perform arm liposuction concurrently with the removal of excess skin, fat, and lipomas will depend on your specific circumstances and the surgeon's assessment.
When choosing a plastic surgeon, it's crucial to select one who is board-certified and has extensive experience in performing arm lift procedures. Look for a surgeon who has successfully completed hundreds of these surgeries for the best outcome.
Regarding the financial aspect, it's worth noting that your medical insurance may cover the removal of arm lipomas. Therefore, find a board-certified plastic surgeon who is willing to collaborate with your insurance provider. This could potentially result in a portion of your surgery, particularly the lipoma removal, being covered by insurance.
I hope this information helps you in making an informed decision about how to address upper arm lipomas and achieve slimmer arms. Wishing you the best of luck in your journey.
Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Kristopher Hamwi, MD · Answer

The problem with treating lipomas with liposuction is that you won't remove all of the lipoma. Some of the lipoma cells will be left behind and the area may look smooth until they begin to grow again. No one will be able to tell you when or how much they will grow. Lipomas are typically removed by cutting them out but this leaves a bigger scar on the skin than liposuction.

Harry T. Haramis, MD, FACS · Answer

An exam and/or photos would be helpful.

In general, sagging skin with arm fat can be removed via arm lift. If the lipomas are in this area, they can be removed at the same time.

An exam and consultation with a plastic surgeon is recommended to best discuss your situation, options and expectations.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

You did not post photos so I cannot be specific. However, you might start with liposuction to reduce the arm fat. Small lipomas will not be removed with liposuction, but can be excised. Once healed, then consider a tuck if needed. I would suggest considering minimally skin tightening like Renuvion with your liposuction to help decrease the occurrence of more lipomas and help tighten your skin.

James Knoetgen, III, MD · Answer

Combining an arm lift with lipoma removal can be effectively performed through a surgical procedure. Here's a breakdown of how this could be approached:1. Initial Consultation:• You'll meet with a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss your concerns, medical history, and goals.• The plastic surgeon will evaluate your arms and any lipomas to determine the best approach for treatment.2. Surgical Procedure:• Arm Lift (Brachioplasty): The plastic surgeon will remove excess skin and fat from the upper arms to improve contour and address sagging or loose skin.• Lipoma Removal: Lipomas are typically removed through a small incision over the lipoma site. The plastic surgeon carefully excises the lipoma and surrounding tissue, ensuring complete removal.3. Combined Approach:• The plastic surgeon will plan the procedure to address both the aesthetic concerns of the arms and the removal of lipomas.• Lipomas may be located in areas that coincide with excess skin to be removed during the arm lift, allowing for simultaneous treatment.4. Recovery:• Following surgery, you'll undergo a period of recovery similar to that of a standard arm lift. • Your plastic surgeon will provide specific instructions for post-operative care, including wound care and activity restrictions.5. Follow-Up:• You'll have regular follow-up appointments with your plastic surgeon to monitor healing and address any concerns.• Once healing is complete, you can expect improved arm contour and the removal of troublesome lipomas.Considerations:• It's essential to choose a skilled and experienced plastic surgeon who is familiar with both arm lift procedures and lipoma removal to ensure optimal results and minimize the risk of complications.• During your consultation, be sure to discuss your expectations, concerns, and any questions you may have about the combined procedure.By combining an arm lift with lipoma removal, you can address both aesthetic and functional concerns in the upper arms, leading to improved contour and potentially alleviating any discomfort or cosmetic issues associated with lipomas.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Depending on the location and nature of the lipomas they may be able to be removed during an arm lift procedure.  it is important to note that the lipomas may regrow.  The best place to begin is a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon near you.

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