Procedure to slim down arms? (photo)

An exam is needed to know for sure but you may be a candidate for liposuction to improve your contour concerns on your arms. Because the area is relatively small you may be able to have it performed under local anesthesia. Visit with a board certified plastic surgeon near you to learn more.

Thank you for your question regarding arm contouring procedures. Based on the photo you’ve provided, it’s difficult to determine whether your arm shape is due to excess fat, skin, or muscle alone. For a more accurate evaluation, I recommend uploading additional photos with your arms raised and positioned to your sides, both from the front and back. Alternatively, an in-person consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon would provide the most definitive answer.

If your concern is primarily related to excess fat without significant skin laxity, a procedure like VASER Hi-Def Liposuction could be an excellent option. This advanced technique not only removes fat but also allows for precise contouring, which can help define and "chisel" the arm muscles, giving a more toned appearance.

However, if you also have excess skin in addition to fat, a brachioplasty (arm lift) may be the better solution. This procedure removes both the excess fat and skin, achieving a smoother and slimmer arm contour. Keep in mind that a brachioplasty will leave a scar, typically along the inner arm, but most patients find the trade-off worth it for the improved arm shape.

Once more photos or an in-person consultation are provided, it will be easier to determine the most suitable approach for your specific goals.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

You need a formal evaluation by a licensed plastic surgeon and expert in arm lifting to determine what is best for you and your goals.
I treat problems of the upper arm in different ways depending on the nature of the problem. For those with firm, healthy, elastic upper arm skin, I use liposuction cosmetic surgery to sculpt and reduce the size of the upper arms to match the lower arm. Once the excess fat is removed, the skin shrinks to the fit the slimmer arm underneath. Liposuction of other body areas can be performed at the same time, as needed.
For patients with loose, sagging skin under their arms (or "bat wings") due to aging, gravity, or significant weight loss, liposuction will actually worsen the appearance of the arms. To properly reshape the arms, I tailor the skin to fit the underlying arm by surgically removing excess skin and fat. This procedure is called a brachioplasty (arm lift). A "mini brachioplasty" does not offer as much improvement as a full arm lift but is an option for patients with loose skin near the armpit or arm fold, leaving only a small scar in the arm crease.
Whether I perform liposuction, a full brachioplasty, or a mini arm lift, my goal is to give patients slimmer, more attractive upper arms. I suggest consulting with a board-certified plastic surgeon and expert in arm lifting. - Dr. Cohen