Brachioplasty (Arm Lift Surgery) in Shreveport

One of the more common signs of aging is sagging skin. As you age, your skin will begin to produce less collagen (the protein that keeps your skin tight). This can produce several unwanted effects across the body.

One of the places where sagging skin can become a problem is your upper arms. Even with a great diet and strict exercise routine, your upper arms may start to look flabby. This is not because of fat deposits or muscle weakness (though those can also occur for some people) but, rather, due to excess skin that sags off your arms.

Weight fluctuations, aging, and genetics can cause your upper arms to have a drooping, sagging appearance. In extreme cases, this can create the appearance of hanging flaps of skin that stretch from your arms to your chest (‘bat wings’). Exercise can strengthen the underlying muscle of the upper arm, but it can’t address skin laxity.

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What Is Brachioplasty?

Brachioplasty (arm lift surgery) removes excess skin and tightens the arm tissues to restore a youthful appearance to your upper arms.

What Are the Benefits of an Arm Lift?

Tightens Sagging Arm Skin

Brachioplasty can remove excess skin and tighten the remaining skin on your upper arms. This reduces the appearance of aging and keeps your skin firm and tight.

Tightens Sagging Arm Skin
Creates More Defined Arms

Creates More Defined Arms

Some muscle laxity tends to occur with age. Arm surgery can tighten lax tissue to create more defined arm contours. This reduces the chances of further tissue sagging over time.

Creates Smoother, Smaller Arm Contours

Arm lift surgery can create smoother arm contours with a reduced circumference. Brachioplasty patients often feel more confident in a wider range of clothing options, including sleeveless outfits.

Creates Smoother, Smaller Arm Contours

What Is the Arm Lift Process?

  • Arm Lift Consultation

    All patients must meet with Dr. Bridges for a consultation to assess their current condition and discuss their aesthetic goals. This ensures that you and your plastic surgeon are on the same page.

    To make your consultation easier, please bring medical records or notes with information on the following:

    • Any previous surgical procedures you have undergone (medical or cosmetic)
    • Any medical conditions you have
    • Any family history of medical conditions
    • Any medications, herbal supplements, or nutritional supplements you take
    • Any other relevant information that may affect your surgical operation or recovery

    Dr. Bridges will examine your physical condition during your consultation to determine whether an arm lift can provide your desired results.

  • Brachioplasty Procedure

    Arm lift surgery is conducted under general anesthesia.

    The procedure begins with an incision that stretches from elbow to shoulder. There are several placement options available, such as along the inner arm or back of the arm. Your surgeon will determine the ideal incision location based on your goals.

    Once the incision is made, excess fat may be removed via liposuction if necessary.

    The next step is to tighten the tissues using internal sutures. This process secures the arm muscles and provides the structure necessary to keep the new contours in place.

    Then, your surgeon will tighten the skin over your new arm contours and trim away excess skin. Finally, the incisions will be closed and sealed with temporary stitches.

What Should I Expect After My Brachioplasty?

Recovery

What Is Recovery Like After Brachioplasty?

Immediately after your surgery, you will need to wear a compression garment around your upper arms. This helps reduce swelling and speeds the arm lift recovery process. Some patients will need small drains attached to their incisions to prevent fluid accumulation and unnecessary swelling.

Bandages will be removed a day or two after surgery. You’ll need to continue wearing your compression garment around the clock for several weeks until your swelling and bruising subside. Your stitches will be removed within two weeks.

You will need to rest and refrain from working for five to seven days after surgery. After that, you should be able to return to work so long as your job is not physically demanding. It may take several weeks before you are ready to resume physically demanding tasks or exercise.

Results

When Will I See My Brachioplasty Results?

Immediately after surgery, you will see a significant change in your arm contours. However, your final results will not be visible for some time due to swelling and post-surgical inflammation.

Most patients will see their final results within six weeks as swelling subsides.

Pain

Is Arm Lift Recovery Painful?

In the first few days after surgery, you may feel some pain, especially when moving your arms. Some mild discomfort may continue for a week or more. Swelling may cause some loss of feeling in the inner arm region.

These symptoms typically recede over six weeks. Pain during this period can be treated with prescription medication as needed.

Scars

Does an Arm Lift Leave Scars?

This surgery will result in scarring, but brachioplasty scars can usually be concealed within the natural contours of your arm. Arm lift scars will naturally fade over time, and proper care can cause them to fade faster.

Patient Testimonials

"I have had several procedures done and have always been satisfied with the results and the attention and concern of Dr. Bridges and his staff.*"

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Frequently Asked Questions About Arm Lift Surgery

  • How much is an arm lift?

    Your arm lift cost will vary depending on the extent of your procedure, the fees charged by the anesthesiologist, and your surgeon’s fees. Dr. Bridges will provide you with your personalized brachioplasty cost during your consultation once he understands your goals and desires.

  • Who is a candidate for brachioplasty in Shreveport?

    In general, candidates for an arm lift include:

    • People with significant upper arm skin laxity
    • Adults with stable weight and who are not significantly overweight
    • Adult without significant medical conditions
    • Non-smokers or those willing to quit for an extended time before and after arm lift surgery
    • Individuals with realistic expectations

    People who have lost significant amounts of weight may want an arm lift to help them achieve more ideal arm contours. If you're wondering how to get rid of loose skin on your arms, brachioplasty may be right for you.

  • How can I prepare for my procedure?

    Dr. Bridges will provide you with specific instructions for the days immediately before your procedure.

    Preparing for brachioplasty may include:

    • Avoiding medications that could complicate your surgery or recovery
    • Not smoking for several months before and after your surgery
    • Arranging for assistance following the operation
  • Can my brachioplasty be combined with other procedures?

    Yes. Brachioplasty is often combined with liposuction and may also be combined with other body contouring plastic surgery options like body lift surgery or tummy tuck surgery.

  • What dietary changes can make my brachioplasty recovery easier?

    To make your recovery after arm lift easier, Dr. Bridges recommends that you drink plenty of water and limit your intake of salty foods. Some salt is essential while recovering, but too much can raise your blood pressure and make your recovery more difficult.

    You should also avoid alcohol and nicotine products.

    Fresh fruits and vegetables coupled with lean meat is a good diet for the first few weeks after your brachioplasty.

  • How long will my arm lift results last?

    So long as you maintain a stable weight, your arm lift results will be effectively permanent. Brachioplasty cannot stop further aging, so your arms will continue aging naturally after your surgery. Most patients report beneficial results for several decades after their procedure.

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