Can loose skin and wrinkkles by my armpit be removed through an arm lift? (photos)

Question

Hi there, I recently posted some questions regarding armlift and wrinkled armpit etc. I thank you very much for the kind answers, but apparently, I wasn't quite clear enough in my formulation. So forgive me trying again: I have found out now, that the loose skin/fat over the breast is extra work by an armlift, as it is only included in an "Extended armlift" But, regarding removal of armpit wrinkles, if they exist, I beleave is standard by every armlift? Or isn't it? I was told at my consultation, that my armpit wrinkles couldn't be removed, because they disapear, when I lift my arm upwards.I was told, that if my armpit wrinkles was removed, then I couldn't lift my arms anymore? But I see many have them taken away?

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

Without in-person consultation it would be very difficult to give you full assurance but it is my impression that conservative skin excision using “Z” plasty would improve your current condition. You have to find a plastic surgeon with experience in this type of procedure. Good luck.

Randal Haworth, MD, FACS · Answer

The removal of armpit wrinkles can be addressed in various ways during armlift surgery. The effectiveness of addressing armpit wrinkles may depend on the specific technique used and the individual’s anatomy.

It’s important  to have a detailed discussion with your surgeon to clarify expectations, understand the proposed surgical plan, and discuss any concerns you may have. Surgeons may have different approaches based on the patient’s unique situation.

Best of luck !

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello,
Thank you for your question about addressing excess skin and wrinkles in the armpit region. You're correct that these issues can be effectively treated with surgery. The procedure you're referring to is technically known as an armpit or axillary reduction. This involves making an incision in the armpit to remove the excess skin, thereby tightening the surrounding area. It's distinct from an arm lift, arm reduction, or brachioplasty, and it's also not a torsoplasty.
During the axillary reduction, after removing the excess skin, the neighboring skin is tightened. It's a common misconception that tightening the armpit skin will permanently restrict your ability to lift or abduct your arms. In reality, after a recovery period, you will regain the ability to lift your arms normally.
The recovery period typically spans 3 to 4 weeks. Initially, you will be advised not to raise your arms, but over the following weeks, you'll be able to gradually increase arm movement. The surgery can be performed under local, IV, or general anesthesia and usually takes about two hours. Typically, drains are not required for this procedure.
I hope this response clarifies your query about treating excess skin in the armpit area and what the procedure entails. Wishing you good luck and a smooth recovery.
Sincerely,

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear ani6767,
in case of arm lift, the surgeon will remove excess skin from the arms but not the armpits as you need some extra skin for the elevation of arm. However, sometimes it is possible to improve that area. If you are considering surgery, I would suggest you consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination, you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

Some of your skin wrinkles extend onto your chest wall beyond the armpit.  Armpit excision will remove some of the wrinkles but you may also need a breast lift to take care of the other wrinkles.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Jeffrey M. Darrow, MD · Answer

You are correct that the skin of this area stretches out when you lift your arms above your head. A direct incision of those wrinkles will leave you with a scar in that area, and perhaps a small restriction of the range of motion of your arm. An extended arm lift with an incision that goes from your armpit slightly down the side of your chest may help to smooth these, but they would not be eliminated.  Best wishes.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Some excess skin can still be removed as a lift, or you can try noninvasive Morpheus in that area to tighten the skin.

Ashley Thorburn, MD · Answer

Yes, loose skin and wrinkles around the armpit area can be addressed through a surgical procedure known as brachioplasty, commonly referred to as an arm lift. An arm lift is a cosmetic surgery designed to improve the appearance of the upper arms by removing excess skin and, in some cases, fat deposits.Common reasons for considering an arm lift include:1. Sagging Skin: If you have lost a significant amount of weight, the skin around the upper arms may become loose and saggy.2. Aging: As we age, skin elasticity decreases, leading to sagging and wrinkles.3. Genetics: Some individuals may have a genetic predisposition to developing excess skin around the upper arms.4. Post-Bariatric Surgery: People who have undergone significant weight loss, whether through surgery or lifestyle changes, may experience excess skin in various areas of the body, including the arms.During an arm lift procedure, excess skin is removed, and the remaining skin is tightened to create a more toned and youthful appearance. The surgery can also involve liposuction to address excess fat in the area.It's important to note that while an arm lift can provide significant improvement in the appearance of the upper arms, it does result in scarring. The extent of scarring will depend on factors such as the amount of excess skin to be removed and the surgical technique used.If you are considering an arm lift, it's recommended to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon. They can assess your individual situation, discuss the potential benefits and risks of the procedure, and help you determine if it's the right option for you based on your aesthetic goals and overall health.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

The armpit wrinkles could be improved by excising some of the skin in that area.  Care does need to be taken as your surgeon pointed out, to not remove too much as it could impede your ability to extend your arm freely.

Can loose skin and wrinkkles by my armpit be removed through an arm lift? (photos)

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