Am I a candidate for arm liposuction or do I need an arm lift? (Photo)

Question

I’m 31 years old. I was wondering if I would be a good candidate for arm liposuction or if I would need to get an arm lift? I do have a bit of loose skin in my arms along with fat.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

You can consider an arm lift with J Plasma for tightening.  This will remove the fatty pockets and help address skin laxity. This would be preferable to the long scar of the the arm lift, even if you are left with a little skin laxity.  I've included a video I hope you find helpful.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question regarding whether you would be a good candidate for arm liposuction or if you might need an arm lift. It's great that you're considering options to enhance the appearance of your arms.

It's hard to tell from the photos provided if you have any stretch marks on your arms. If you do have stretch marks, this typically indicates less skin elasticity, which might make you a better candidate for an arm lift (brachioplasty). An arm lift would not only reduce excess skin but also tighten and contour the remaining skin for a more toned appearance.

At 31 years old, you are relatively young, and your skin likely retains some natural elasticity. This means that your skin might partially "snap back" post-procedure, but not 100%. If you don't mind the scar, which is typically placed on the inner aspect of the arm to be less visible, I would recommend considering the brachioplasty to achieve the best contouring result.

However, if the idea of a scar is concerning, another option to consider is arm liposuction combined with a procedure like BodyTite. BodyTite uses radiofrequency-assisted lipolysis to tighten the skin while removing fat. This can be a good compromise to see how well your skin retracts with the aid of technology designed to enhance skin tightening, especially when combined with tight compression garments post-procedure.

I recommend discussing these options with a board-certified plastic surgeon who can evaluate your skin quality and the amount of fat and skin that needs to be addressed. This consultation will help determine the most suitable approach to meet your aesthetic goals and ensure you are satisfied with the results.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Ramin Behmand, MD, FACS · Answer

An arm lift can result in a noticeable scar, especially in a highly visible area. Therefore, the benefits of the procedure should outweigh the presence of the scar. In your case, I don't believe this trade-off would be favorable. For liposuction to be effective on the arms, it's preferable to have skin with good tone and minimal laxity. While your arm skin appears aesthetically pleasing, it seems to have adjusted well to some weight loss. Consequently, I would also recommend avoiding liposuction. In summary, I would advise against either procedure at this time. Your skin is beautiful, and sometimes the pursuit of improvement may not be necessary when you're already in a good place.

Dr. B.

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

At 31, your skin should contract.  I would recommend liposuction and wear a compression garment for several months to allow the skin to contract.  If the skin does not contract you would need a transverse brachioplasty.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

It would be difficult to decide whether liposuction only would give you satisfactory result. In person consultation with an experienced board certified  plastic surgeon would give you a chance to discuss both options. Good luck.

Am I a candidate for arm liposuction or do I need an arm lift? (Photo)

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Answer: Liposuction

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Answer: Liposuction vs. arm lift

Answer: Liposuction vs. arm lift

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Am I a candidate for arm liposuction or do I need an arm lift? (Photo)

Answers (10)

Answer: Liposuction

Answer: Liposuction

Answer: Liposuction vs. arm lift

Answer: Liposuction vs. arm lift

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Everything you need to know about Liposuction

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