Arm lift and fat grafting to correct upper arm lipo? (photo)

Correcting contour defects of the upper arm is not uncommon. Upper arm liposuction. ( and medial thigh) are synonymous with irregularities after liposuction. To fix these, usual options include invasive (Lipo/fat grafting), excisional (arm lift), or non-invasive (bio stimulators like Renuva, Sculptra, dilute radiance). An excisional procedure is typically reserved for clients after massive weight loss with significant loose hanging skin. A standard arm lift(stopping at the axilla) or an extended one ( into the armpit and down the chest) effectively creates an appealing contour. Of course, the expectation should be that the upper arm will always be smaller than the forearm and taper like a cone from the hand to the upper arm. The correction of contour defects can be improved with fat grafting or biostims but may never be 100%. Doing an arm lift simultaneously as fat grafting posterior arm defects is the most aggressive approach. The trade-off is the scar of the arm lift starting from the elbow and going into the armpit. Some clients would instead get more benefit from liposuction/renuvion( jplasma) than a formal excisional procedure.

An arm lift can be done. There are 2 ways to do it: a transverse incision in the armpit and the other is a long arm incision. You may qualify for a transverse incision in the armpit. However, at the time of an arm lift, fat can be aspirated inferiorly and transferred to the contour deformity on the dorsum of the arms.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Hi Modest359064. Thank you for your question regarding an arm lift and fat grafting to correct upper arm lipo. Thank you for your history and your pictures. First, we should analyze your pictures to determine the best arm procedure. You have areas of arm hypoplasia or indentations after your arm lipo. Since these are areas of indentation, they need to be filled for correction. The best thing in the arm to fill indentations is your fat. Typically, fat can be harvested from the abdomen or superior iliac crest (love handles). I do not see much excess skin on your arms. Therefore, I do not think you need a brachioplasty or arm reduction. If you have excess arm skin and fat on physical examination during the consultation, you may be a candidate for an arm lift or arm reduction. Your fat transfer to the indentations on your arm and your arm reduction could be performed simultaneously. Good luck! Since you are seeking an arm revision, I would suggest you seek an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon with significant experience performing these types of arm lifts. Do your research. Make sure your chosen plastic surgeon has performed at least 100 arm lifts. Make sure they have the before and after pictures to prove it. Carefully examine their before and after pictures and check their reviews on RealSelf.
Sincerely, Dr. Katzen, MD. (Plastic Surgeon, President of the American Society of Bariatric Surgeons, certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, Fellow of the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, American College of Surgery, International College of Surgery, and American Board of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, and member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery, American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery, RealSelf Hall of Fame, and RealSelf Doctor Advisory Board for Medical Review and Consumer Panel.)

An in person evaluation is best but based on the submitted photos it does appear that a revision would be helpful. Fat grafting can be done to improve contours. Depending on the degree of skin laxity either a brachioplasty or skin tightening may be suggested. Visit with a board certified plastic surgeon near you to learn more.

An arm lift (brachioplasty) combined with fat grafting can be an excellent solution for correcting issues related to upper arm liposuction. Here's how each part of the procedure works:
• Arm Lift (Brachioplasty): This procedure involves the removal of excess skin and tissue in the upper arm area. It can help create a smoother and firmer appearance, especially if there is loose or sagging skin from weight loss or aging.
• Fat Grafting: Fat grafting involves taking fat from other areas of your body (like the abdomen or thighs) and transferring it to the upper arms to help fill in areas that may have become hollow or uneven after liposuction. This can smooth out irregularities or restore volume.
Together, they address both the skin and tissue concerns that may remain after liposuction, providing more contour and a more youthful, toned look.

Yes, fat grafting can be done. You might need at least two sessions and be conservative on the grafting. another option is Sculptra injections.