Would you recommend an arm lift or not? (Photo)

Question

I’m seriously on the fence about my arms. Would you recommend I do them or not? I’m a MWL after WLS patient. Went from 280 pounds in 2009 had gastric bypass and now weigh 130. I’m having thighs done and debating on doing arms with them or not. I will only have this one last procedure. No more after this. (Had a FDL panni in January’23). So it’s a now or never type of decision.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi,

Thank you for your question regarding whether I recommend an arm lift, arm reduction, or brachioplasty. Yes, I would definitely recommend an arm lift in your situation. Thank you for providing your history and picture.

Your arm lift would entail arm liposuction and an incision from the armpit to the elbow. If the skin inside around the elbow bothers you, the incision can be carried around the elbow. The procedure is performed under general anesthesia and takes approximately 3 to 4 hours to complete. It is an outpatient procedure, and drains are not required.

Therefore, in conclusion, I would highly suggest you have your arms done. Complete your weight loss journey and allow yourself to wear short sleeve shirts or perhaps even tank tops. I hope I've helped encourage you to undergo the arm lift surgery. I think it will be very rewarding for you.

Good luck.

Sincerely,

Dr. J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS, FICS

Luis Suarez, MD · Answer

Giving your medical history information and how the condition of the skin appears on the pictures you are definitely a great candidate for this surgery. This procedure will help successfully eliminate not only loose skin, but any fat in the skin as well to give you lean and toned arms.

Chet Mays, MD · Answer

Thanks for your inquiry!  Congratulations on your weight loss!  Unfortunately, after weight loss, skin is what remains.  This a decision you have to make for yourself.  We would love to be a part of your journey and help you reach your goals!  Schedule a consult with a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon.

Thomas Trevisani, MD · Answer

Congratulations on your weight loss! if you are interested in removing the excess  skin - then an arm lift may be indicated to tighten your arms. I suggest that you discuss this with your Operating Surgeon. In our Practice we often perform combination procedures at the same time with an overnight stay. Good luck!

Miguel Mota, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for posting with a photo. You are definitely a good candidate for an arm lift, and they will not get better with exercise or lipo. But the decision is ultimately yours. An arm lift is the only way to make them smaller and tighter. Plus it can be done safely in combination with a thigh lift. I dint see any reason not to try and get them both done at once. 
Hope this helps,
Dr. Miguel Mota

Farbod Esmailian, MD · Answer

Given the photo you have posted, I would say you are a good candidate for an arm lift.  My only concern here is doing them together with a thigh lift, specially if you are undergoing a full thigh lift.  In my practice I would be dividing the two procedure up as I feel it is too much surgery at one time to recover from.
Hope that helps.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Congratulations on your impressive weight loss! No one but you can determine if your arms bother you to the degree that you would like them surgically addressed.  You do appear to be a candidate for an arm lift.  This would remove excess fat and skin and contour the arms, keeping them in balance with your body.  The trade off is the scar that would be along the inner aspect of the arm extending from the armpit to the elbow area. I've included a video I hope you find helpful.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

If you are wanting to remove the excess skin, then have the brachioplasty. It is totally your decision. Congratulations on the weight loss!

Would you recommend an arm lift or not? (Photo)

Answers (8)

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