Why have my arms drooped 9 months after arm lift surgery? (photos)

Question

I am 63. I had arm lift surgery 9 months ago. After 4 months the results were looking good. I wore a compression garment for the first 5 months. It is now 9 months post surgery, and the arms have dropped noticeably, and the results are no longer satisfactory. My weight has remained constant, and so has my health. My doctor only explained that the procedure was performed properly, and has not acknowledged that there is an issue.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for raising the concern about your arms drooping nine months after undergoing an arm lift or brachioplasty. I have carefully reviewed your medical history and images, and here's my evaluation:
It's my professional opinion that the drooping of your arms can be attributed to a combination of genetic factors related to your skin and the natural aging process. While the arm lift surgery seems to have been performed appropriately, your age of 63 years has led to decreased collagen and elastin levels in your skin. Elastin is essential for skin resilience, especially post-surgery. Unfortunately, your arm skin hasn't regained optimal firmness.
To address this issue, a more assertive approach is recommended. This would involve a combination of aggressive arm liposuction and a revision of your arm lift procedure. Extending the incision from your armpit to your elbow would enable more effective removal of excess arm skin. It's important to note that isolated arm liposuction might worsen the condition rather than improve it. Consequently, a comprehensive approach involving the removal of excess skin and fat is advisable.
I hope this recommendation provides a path forward in addressing your arm drooping concerns. Please feel free to reach out if you need further clarification.
Best regards,
Dr. Katzen

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

From the photos it appears that you have healed appropriately from the surgery.  You may be noticing that the tissues have less elasticity due to the natural aging process.  If there is extra fat you may find improvement with liposuction.  Regular exercise including weight training will help you to maintain your results.

Ryan Rebowe, MD · Answer

Although the skin was likely tightened properly, your skin remains elastic and can continue to stretch following the procedure. This may result in a skin deformity similar to your preoperative exam. At this point, if you are unhappy with the look of the arm, a re-tightening of the skin with another skin removal procedure is likely necessary, although it is admittedly difficult to tell from the provided pictures.

Randal Haworth, MD, FACS · Answer

The results are supposed to be long lasting. In my experience, this issue can be corrected with a revision brachioplasty.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Jaybee1959,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what went wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment or ask for a second opinion. Only after a thorough examination, you can get proper recommendations and advice.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Why have my arms drooped 9 months after arm lift surgery? (photos)

Answers (7)

Answer: Revision brachioplasty

Answer: Revision brachioplasty

Answer: Arm lift results

Answer: Arm lift results

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Why have my arms drooped 9 months after arm lift surgery? (photos)

Answers (7)

Answer: Revision brachioplasty

Answer: Revision brachioplasty

Answer: Arm lift results

Answer: Arm lift results

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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.