After weight loss, skin laxity is a common and undesirable problem. In my San Francisco Bay Area Plastic Surgery clinic, many patients seek to complete their weight loss journey with the removal of excess skin. Whether their weight loss is due to bariatric surgery, GLP-1 treatment or diet and exercise, all patients desire the same outcome – to eliminate the burden of loose, saggy skin.
Arm Lifts are used to remove the excess skin that is left behind after massive weight loss, like in the patient shown above.
Tummy Tucks are the most common post-bariatric plastic surgery with Breast Enhancement coming in second. The extremities are next with Arm Lifts or Brachioplasty leading Thigh Lifts.
My weight loss patients often express that they have done the work, but want to tighten up the results and eliminate the reminders of their former selves. That’s where I, a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, can help. After a thorough in person consultation, a treatment plan is developed to address the most troublesome areas – the arms, belly, breast, face and thighs. Today, we will focus on Brachioplasty also referred to as bat wing surgery or more commonly an Arm Lift.
The margin of the triceps muscle can be seen in the Brachioplasty before picture above; however, it is much cleaner in the after picture when the excess skin is removed.
The Benefits of Brachioplasty
There are many benefits to Arm Lifts, and both form and function can be improved. Here is an outline of the most commonly achieved improvements. Individual results may vary, so it is important to consult with an experienced, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon to review the goals and risks specific to your case.
- Excess Skin is Removed: The primary goal of Brachioplasty is to remove the excess arm skin. With weight gain, the skin stretches; however, with weight loss skin doesn’t fully shrink. By removing the excess, the skin no longer sags and waves about.
- Smoother Arm Contours: The most obvious change after an Arm Lift is the improved arm contours. With the excess skin removed, the skin is tighter and conforms to the underlying muscle contours. This gives a more athletic form to the arms.
- Increased Comfort With Activity: Floppy arm skin is uncomfortable. The weight and momentum of the skin can be felt in simple activities like waving, but is more pronounced with increasing physical activity, often discouraging vigorous exercise.
- Looks Better in Clothes: The skin left over after weight loss is often bulky, making fitting into sleeves difficult and uncomfortable. Removing the skin excess thins the arms and allows a better fit in clothing.
- Enhanced Self-Esteem: By removing the excess skin, improving the arm contours, increasing the comfort of physical activity and improving the fit of clothing, Arm Lifts can lead to a boost in confidence and improved self-esteem.
- Improved Skin Hygiene: By reducing skin folds, skin-on-skin irritation is reduced. This means fewer rashes and infections. Additionally, since some of the armpit skin is removed, axillary sweating is reduced.
Arm Lift Consultations
This patient had fairly elastic skin that had recoiled fairly well after her weight loss; however, Arm Lift Surgery provided her with an even better result.
If you are considering Arm Lift Surgery, an in-person consultation is the next step to determine the best treatment. Be certain to consult with an experienced Board Certified Plastic Surgeon near you. They will evaluate your arms, discuss your goals, and determine if you are a good candidate for Brachioplasty. In the San Francisco Bay Area call (925) 943-6353, and schedule your personalized consultation appointment, today.
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