Elbow tuck for skinny arms: how big will the scars be? Can I have local anesthesia? Am I a candidate? (photos)

Question

I am a 31yo female, residing in the Northern NJ/Manhattan area, and I have always had toned and somewhat skinny arms. At the same time, for as long as I can remember, I have also had excess skin on both of my elbows. Liposuction is not an option as there is no fat in there, so I am considering an elbow tuck. It would be great to learn some views on this and if removing an inch-to-two inches of excess skin per arm will be worth the scars. Doctors’ professional opinions are greatly appreciated.

Farhad Rafizadeh, MD · Answer

This is not a common procedure but it can be done. You wouldn't need much removed to see a difference and the scar could be made small. The visibility would be an issue but if you are a good heeler, it shouldn't be a big problem.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question about the possibility of an elbow skin tuck to address excess skin at the elbows. Indeed, this procedure is a viable option for removing excess elbow skin, and it can typically be done under local anesthesia.
The incision for an elbow skin tuck is generally placed on the inside of your elbow and extends around to the back of the elbow. The length of the incision can range from 3 to 4 inches, depending on the amount of excess skin that needs to be removed. It's important to note that the extent of the incision correlates with the degree of skin laxity; more excess skin will require a longer incision.
An essential factor to keep in mind is the necessity of leaving enough skin around the elbow joint to maintain full range of motion. Over-removal of skin in this area could restrict your ability to bend the elbow, so a balance must be struck to ensure both aesthetic improvement and functional preservation.
I hope this information helps clarify how excess elbow skin can be addressed surgically and reassures you that it can be performed under local anesthesia. Wishing you the best with your decision and procedure.
Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

This could be considered and can be performed under local anesthesia.  The scar would be about the length of the wrinkles at the fold.

Joseph Michaels, MD · Answer

The procedure is possible, but may leave a visible scar in the area. You need enough skin to flex your elbow completely so you have to be conservative. I do not tun that other skin tightening modalities mentioned will really help.

Aldo Guerra, MD · Answer

Thank you for this question. I think surgery is too aggressive for this small amount of elbow skin and the risks of scarring too cumbersome. I would ask you to consider Thermi for skin tightening and Sculptra injection to build up collagen. Best, Dr. ALDO

Elbow tuck for skinny arms: how big will the scars be? Can I have local anesthesia? Am I a candidate? (photos)

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Elbow tuck for skinny arms: how big will the scars be? Can I have local anesthesia? Am I a candidate? (photos)

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