Can full brachio fix saggy wrinkled skin extending past elbow into forearms? Are skin tightening &brachio ever combined?

Question

Since last fall my arm skin became VERY lax. 53 yrs, F, near menopause. No major weight loss/not heavy. Lifting weights 6+ mos 3x a week & now there's SOLID muscle tone from bicep thru forearm. I'm consulting w/PS's & know full brachio is best, but how well that will that fix sagging inner elbow that impacts forearm? See last 2 pics, if arm is slightly bent & I press on skin, or turn arm sideways, there is major laxity/wrinkling from inner elbow downward. Will brachio ending at elbow fix it?

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello aging mess,
Thank you for your questions about addressing sagging and wrinkled skin extending from the upper arms to the forearms and whether skin tightening procedures can be combined with brachioplasty (arm lift). Based on your inquiry, it sounds like you're looking for an effective solution to improve the appearance of your arms.
Full Brachioplasty: Given your concern about sagging skin extending beyond the elbows, a full brachioplasty might indeed be appropriate. This procedure typically involves liposuction from the elbow to the armpit, followed by an incision from the armpit to the elbow, often placed in the bicipital groove (the crease between the biceps and triceps) or on the inner aspect of the arm. The goal is to hide the scar as much as possible when the arms are resting by your side.
Extension Beyond the Elbow: In cases where sagging skin extends into the forearm, the incision can be extended past the elbow. Experienced surgeons often carry this incision down the forearm, possibly even to the wrist, though the incision placement and extent vary based on individual needs. A technique that involves extending the incision and creating a 90-degree turn behind the elbow can effectively address excess skin and fat around the elbow and partially lift the forearm without leaving visible scars on the forearm itself.
Skin Tightening: In terms of combining skin tightening with brachioplasty, the removal and redraping of skin during the brachioplasty itself offer significant skin tightening effects. Additional skin tightening technologies or treatments can be discussed with your surgeon, especially if they could enhance the overall result. The choice to combine procedures depends on various factors, including the extent of skin laxity, the quality of your skin, and your overall health.
It's important to have a thorough consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon experienced in brachioplasty and arm rejuvenation procedures. They can provide a personalized assessment and recommend the most effective approach to achieve your desired outcomes, ensuring the incisions and techniques used are tailored to your specific needs.
I hope this information helps guide your decision-making process and provides a clearer understanding of the options available to address your concerns. Wishing you the best as you explore your surgical options.
Good luck, and take care.
Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Age-related hormonal changes, weight fluctuations, reduced physical activity and gravitational pull all contribute to sagging skin.  In your case, the sagging skin is more likely the result of hormonal changes, and gravitational pull.  I recommend that you schedule an appointment with a board certified plastic surgeon who can determine if BodyTite would provide the results you are seeking.   With its ability to safely and precisely heat the soft tissue that is being contoured, BodyTite™ which is gentle, safe, and effective, could provide superior skin tightening effects with no down time.
Kenneth Hughes, MD, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
Los Angeles, CA

Richard G. Reish, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question.  The
best advice you can receive is from an in-person consultation.  With that
being said, based on your photographs, I do not think you would benefit from an arm lift.  An arm lift is a great procedure for patients with more skin laxity than you currently have.  I recommend
that you seek consultation with a qualified board-certified plastic surgeon who
can evaluate you in person.
Best wishes and good luck.
Richard G. Reish, M.D.
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

Harry T. Haramis, MD, FACS · Answer

Personally, I would not recommend a brachiaplasty- you may have thick long scars and it will not address all of your skin concerns.I usually recommend to start with Smart Lipo laser for skin tightening/improvement. This avoids large scars and can be performed under local. An exam and consultation with a plastic surgeon who performs these procedures is recommended to confirm you are a candidate as well as discuss your options, expectations and limitations.

Mark K. Markarian, MD, MSPH, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question.  First off, congrats on sticking to a regular workout regimen.  Muscle toning and exercise has limited your need for any significant cosmetic surgical intervention.  You may benefit from some skin tightening but overall I think your arms look good.  All brachioplasty involves an element of skin tightening.  I rarely extend the incision past the elbow into the forearm.  The best advice would be given from an in-person consultation with a plastic surgeon.Good luck.Mark K Markarian, MD, MSPHHarvard-trained Aesthetic Plastic Surgeon

Henry Wells, MD · Answer

A brachioplasty will address sagging skin of the upper arm and when needed can extend below the elbow. There is a long scar but careful placement of the scar along the lower arm can help make the scars less noticeable. You should ask yourself if the scar is worth treating the excess skin. Frequently, it is.

Can full brachio fix saggy wrinkled skin extending past elbow into forearms? Are skin tightening &brachio ever combined?

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