Do I need to exercise before an arm lift? If not, will it affect my result?

Question

I am planning to have an arm lift this summer and I want to know if I can/should do exercises for my upper arms prior to the surgery. I used to have very muscular arms but due to a neck injury and no exercise, they have become extremely saggy. My loose skin also feels thicker/beefier than the loose skin on my friend's arms who has lost 100lbs. Any ideas about whether this would affect an arm lift for me?

Mathew A. Plant, MD, FRCSC · Answer

The better shape you are in before surgery, the better the result your surgeon can give you. This applies to all plastic surgery, not just brachioplasty. There are limits to how much can be safely liposuctioned at the same time as skin excision so the thinner your skin flaps are going into surgery the more toned you will look coming out.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Before your arm lift for arm reduction surgery, you should be as healthy as possible. If you're not currently exercising I would suggest some form of cardiac exercise. This will get you "healthier" for the upcoming surgery.  In regards to arm exercise, I do not think arm exercises are particularly necessary. An experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon should be able to sculpt your arms to achieve optimal results.  Please seek a plastic surgeon with significant experience in arm lift or brachioplasty surgery. Sincerely, Dr.Katzen.

Joubin Gabbay, MD · Answer

I believe that the healthier you are before surgery, the better you'll do.  In the case of arm lifts, I feel that this is particularly true.  General weight loss will maximize the amount of extra skin that can be removed, good cardiovascular health will help prevent against anesthesia and postoperative complications and good muscular tone can optimize the aesthetic outcome.  I congratulate you for considering the benefits of exercise in preparation for your arm lift - consider it a valuable investment in your operation.  I wish you the best!

Ira H. Rex III, MD · Answer

Exercising before and arm lift should not have any real effects on the results. The amount of muscle that could be gained or lost is relatively insignificant compared to the way your skin will stretch under the new tension.

Justin Yovino, MD, FACS · Answer

I see no issue with you exercising to your hearts content. It's always better to be in shape for your procedure.

William Andrade, MD · Answer

Provided you are healthy enough to start an exercise regimen, there shouldn't be harm in trying to improve your arm tone before having arm lift surgery.  If you are unsure, you could ask your family doctor, or if you have already seen a plastic surgeon, ask their advice about planning for surgery.

Robert Drielsma, MBBS, BSc, FRACS · Answer

Exercise in the lead up to surgery can only be of benefit! If you achieve greater muscle tone in the lead up to surgery its likely you will achieve a better aesthetic outcome.  General fitness and a good diet will also help to ensure your surgery goes to plan and minimizes the risk of complications.  That said, some areas of the body, particularly the arms just don't respond to exercise.  Excess, sagging skin of the upper arms can often only be addressed with surgery.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question. Exercise, will certainly help tone up the biceps/triceps prior to the procedure, and can only help improve the long-term appearance of your upper arms. There is no downside. Best wishes for a successful arm lift, that you will be very pleased with.

Nicolas M. Hynes, MD · Answer

A good question. Of course it is always desireable to be in good shape before a surgical procedure, so exercise is definitely recommended for that reason.  However, exercise tones muscles, not skin. In an arm lift (or brachioplasty), it is the loose skin that is removed and tightened.  Exercise does not tighten skin.In short, the cosmetic result will not be affected by exercise.  Hope that helps!Dr. N. Hynes

Umeng David Thao, MD · Answer

It doesn't hurt to exercise for your overall health and also for your arm lift procedure. The most important thing is to consult with a board certified plastic surgeon.

Do I need to exercise before an arm lift? If not, will it affect my result?

Answers (12)

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