Exercise vs Lipo vs Arm Lift - how can I fix under arm flab? (Photos)

Question

48yo female 164lbs, 5’11. I have lost around 30 lbs. I work out 4 days a week, cardio and strength. I have always had under arm flab since I was in my 20s. My muscles are definitely becoming more defined in My arms. I am still on my weight loss journey - maybe 9-10 more lbs. Would I be able to get away with just more exercise/strength training to get rid of the flab under my arms (it has definitely reduced some since working out)? Or at minimum Lipo?

Guray Yesiladali, MD, FEBOPRAS · Answer

What you are describing is primarily related to skin redundancy rather than muscle tone alone.
When you strengthen the underlying tissues, the overall contour of the arm can improve. However, tightening the muscle does not reduce the amount of skin that surrounds it.
You can think of it like a pillow. If you compress the filling inside, the pillow may look smaller, but the fabric covering it can begin to wrinkle or appear looser. Similarly, reducing fat or building muscle improves volume, but it does not shrink the skin envelope.
In your case, there is no absolute indication that surgery is mandatory. The decision depends entirely on how much the remaining laxity bothers you.
Liposuction alone is not the appropriate solution when skin laxity is present. Removing fat without addressing the skin can sometimes make the looseness more visible.
If a definitive correction is desired, brachioplasty (arm lift) is the procedure that addresses excess skin directly. However, it is very important to complete your weight loss journey and reach a stable weight before surgery. Being at a stable weight directly affects the long-term durability of the result.
I wish you continued success on your journey and clarity in choosing the option that best aligns with your expectations and long-term goals.
&mdash; Güray Yeşiladalı, MD

Laura Roider, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your photos. Unfortunately, it is impossible to exercise or liposuction away loose skin. Which exercise and liposuction are great at removing excess fat. 
Based on your photos you have fairly tone arms with mild residual fat and moderate excess skin. I would recommend achieving your goal weight and then consulting with a plastic surgeon to discuss skin removal options.

Luis A. Mejia, MD · Answer

Hello, thank you for your question.. From the photo you send and after evaluating your case, there are some excess of skin on your arms area... an Arm lift is needed to crrect this and improve it.

Exercise vs Lipo vs Arm Lift - how can I fix under arm flab? (Photos)

Answers (3)

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