Arm Lift / Scarring. Would I get the full benefits with an under arm incision? (Photo)

Question

I'm going abroad soon for arm lift surgery. I originally wanted just liposuction but was told that due to skin laxity I could get better results with an arm lift. But because of my skin tone I am scared of scarring, but the surgeon said that he could make an incision under my arms so from the pictures would I get the full benefits of an arm lift with an underarm incision, if not what is scarring like on black skin as I do not want a scar going down my arm and afraid of keloids. Thanks

Lisa J. Peters, MD · Answer

I understand your concern regarding an incision from armpit to elbow, but unfortunately I believe that is the trade-off for making an improvement in the contour of your upper arm.  Your photos show loose upper arm skin, which will only be worsened with liposuction.  A limited incision approach to an arm lift may only make a subtle improvement in the contour of the upper arm near the armpit.Scars associated with an arm lift do tend to be less attractive than scars elsewhere.  Though some patients heal with beautiful, thin, inconspicuous scars, other patients develop wide, raised, or thickened scars in patchy areas or along the whole length of the scar.  I  advise the use of topical silicone after surgery (sheets or gels such as Kelocote) to optimize a patient's chance of achieving a good scar (talk to your surgeon about their recommendations first before using any product).Your goal photo does indeed have a beautiful arm, though probably not achievable for most women.As other surgeons have mentioned, I strongly advise against going abroad for cosmetic surgery.  Though foreign locations may offer attractive pricing, it is not worth the increased risk of complications of surgery as well as the issues associated with taking care of complications that could arise once you are back home.  This could result in a substantial increased expense making your ultimate out-of-pocket cost much higher than if you'd just found a qualified surgeon in your area.

Francis Johns, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.The scarring from a Brachioplasty can be unpredictable. Some patients heal very well and have a tiny thin line that heals nicely, others develop slightly widened scars that stay red/pink and do not fade. As you know being African American does increase your risk of developing keloids, so I would definitely put some thought in to this before making any decisions. Good luck.

John J. Edney, MD · Answer

Judging by your photographs it appears that he would need a full brachioplasty in order to achieve the full benefits.  A limited procedure and your case will result in a limited outcome.Many patients are understandably concerned with the potential of a less than ideal scar resulting from a brachioplasty.  Careful planning and placement of the incision, however, can often significantly improve the appearance of the postoperative scar.  For that reason it would be best to consult a surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery who performs brachioplasty on a regular basis in order to have the best opportunity for an optimal outcome.  Good luck.

Zachary Farris, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question.  Since the extent of your skin and fat excess extends across your entire arm, a limited incision arm lift would leave you with a poor result.  I would caution you about going abroad for cosmetic surgery since surgery may not be as regulated and surgeons not as properly vetted as they are in the US.  They may offer a lower price but sometimes you get what you pay for.

Vasdev Rai, MD · Answer

You will not get results of your wish picture with any approach.  You should be concerned about scar.  Limited upper arm tuck is ineffective. You should accept your limiting factors and accept improvement that comes from liposuction.

Arm Lift / Scarring. Would I get the full benefits with an under arm incision? (Photo)

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Answer: Arm Lift / Scarring. Would I get the full benefits with an under arm incision?

Answer: Arm Lift / Scarring. Would I get the full benefits with an under arm incision?

Answer: Be a realist

Answer: Be a realist

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Arm Lift / Scarring. Would I get the full benefits with an under arm incision? (Photo)

Answers (7)

Answer: Arm Lift / Scarring. Would I get the full benefits with an under arm incision?

Answer: Arm Lift / Scarring. Would I get the full benefits with an under arm incision?

Answer: Be a realist

Answer: Be a realist

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Arm Lift

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.