Is arm reduction a possibility for me? (photos)

Question

I have Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, and this loose skin under my arm is really starting to bother me my skin is also loose on my neck but doesn't show as much. I try to tone my under arms all the time and no matter how much I try it doesn't work

Rajat Gupta, MD, MS, DNB · Answer

For the lose skin around the arms, arm lift can be a good option to treat it. We excise the extra skin but there are scars involved. The scars are however not visible if you stand straight, but will be visible if you raise your arms. If you want a non-surgical method, then RF Skin Tightening and Body HIFU can be used. However, non-surgical methods will not have same effect as the surgical methods. Similar treatments can be used for lose skin on the neck, for which the scars are behind the ear and hardly show.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello stefanielynea,
Thank you for reaching out with your question about the feasibility of an arm reduction given your diagnosis of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS). Understanding how EDS might impact surgical outcomes is crucial in making informed decisions about cosmetic procedures.
Ehlers-Danlos syndrome is indeed a condition that affects the connective tissues in the body, including the skin. One of the hallmark characteristics of EDS is skin that is hyper-elastic (very stretchy) and often has poor recoil qualities. This aspect of the condition can significantly impact healing and the effectiveness of certain plastic surgery procedures.
Given these factors:
Arm Lift Caution: In general, an arm lift (brachioplasty), which involves removing excess skin and tissue, might not be advisable for individuals with EDS. This is due to concerns about wound healing and the quality of the skin, which might not respond as expected to the surgical intervention.
Liposuction Consideration: While arm liposuction could potentially reduce the volume of fat in the arms, the effectiveness in terms of skin retraction might be limited. In EDS, the skin's reduced ability to contract might result in less than desirable outcomes, even with advanced techniques like VASER liposuction or J-Plasma.
Surgical Decision: It's critical to have a thorough consultation with a plastic surgeon who has experience working with patients with EDS. They can provide a detailed assessment and discuss realistic expectations considering your specific type of EDS and your individual health status.
It's also important to collaborate with your healthcare team managing your EDS to ensure any potential surgery is aligned with your overall treatment plan and to minimize health risks.
While I understand the desire for cosmetic improvement, it’s essential to prioritize your health and safety, given the complexities associated with EDS. Exploring non-surgical options and focusing on lifestyle measures that can improve the tone and health of your skin might also be beneficial.
I hope this information helps you in making a well-informed decision about your options. Wishing you the best as you explore the most suitable and safe approach for your needs.
Good luck, and take care.
Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Dallas Buchanan, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Very interesting and unique question. Although there are multiple subtypes of EDS, they all have problems with connective tissue. Because of this, the skin does not heal or scar normally and for this reason, cosmetic surgery is not usually offered due to the increased risk of complications, wound healing problems, and high rates of recurrence of the initial condition that prompted the surgical intervention. Hope this helps!

Deepak K. Naidu, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  There are several different subtypes of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome that impacts your skin elasticity as well as how well your body can heal after surgery.  People diagnosed with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome are at higher risk of wound healing complications as well as hypertrophic, thickened scarring.  
Unfortunately, surgical options will be limited for these reasons.  However, topical treatments such as radiofrequency or cryotherapy may help you achieve your desired goals.

Ali Soueid, FRCS ( Plast) · Answer

at your stage the skin excess is not significant to need excision however liposuction might be a good option followed by radio frequency treatments to tighten the skin. alternatively coolsculpture might also deliver good results.

Is arm reduction a possibility for me? (photos)

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Answer: Plastic surgery with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome

Answer: Plastic surgery with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome

Answer: Liposuction

Answer: Liposuction

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Is arm reduction a possibility for me? (photos)

Answers (6)

Answer: Plastic surgery with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome

Answer: Plastic surgery with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome

Answer: Liposuction

Answer: Liposuction

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