Size 4, 133 pounds. I HATE my arms! What treatment options would be best? (Photo)

Question

I am 48 years old and my arms have always been MUCH larger than the rest of my body. I have run marathons, lifted heavy weights. Even in the best shape of my life, they don't go away. What is my best option? Size 4, 133 pounds.

Lars Enevoldsen, MD · Answer

There is really only one good option for you and that is a brachioplasty or arm lift.  The procedure will require the removal of skin and fat in order to narrow and tighten your upper arms.  The older, traditional way of doing this results in the removal of not only the excess skin and fat but also all the blood vessels, lymphatics and nerves contained in the area.  This can result in an increased risk of fluid collection, numbness and swelling in the forearm.  My preferred technique is to suction out all the fat in the area to be excised so that only skin is left and then cut away the skin only.  This preserves all the underlying structures, reducing the risk of complications and eliminates the need for drains.  The tradeoff will be a long scar from armpit to elbow.  Ask your surgeon about using Brijjits and Embrace to help with the appearance of the scars.

Harry T. Haramis, MD, FACS · Answer

Unfortunately, arms can be extremely stubborn.

Many patients will benefit from Vaser ultrasound liposuction to remove the bulky fat and tighten skin to a degree.

However, you most likely will also need skin removed via arm lift (brachiaplasty)

An exam and consultation with a plastic surgeon is recommended to confirm this as well as discuss your options and expectations.

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

The best treatment for you would be a brachioplasty.  An incision is made at the axilla and goes down to the elbow.  I also use liposuction at the same time to feather the transition between the lifted and no lifted areas.  This takes 2 hours to perform under general anesthesia and costs $8,000.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Based on the one poster photo you were candidate for a brachioplasty or arm lift. Best of virtual console with for a better understanding. Expect fees to arrange from $8000-$10,000. Again, best of virtual consult with.

Size 4, 133 pounds. I HATE my arms! What treatment options would be best? (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Hanging arm skin option

Answer: Hanging arm skin option

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Everything you need to know about Arm Lift

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Size 4, 133 pounds. I HATE my arms! What treatment options would be best? (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Hanging arm skin option

Answer: Hanging arm skin option

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Arm Lift

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