Upper Arm Lift Procedure

Upper Arm Lift Procedure

So you've finally decided to do something about that extra baggage you've been carrying in your arms. You're not alone. Every year, thousands of people have an upper arm lift procedure to correct sagging upper arms. Before you go in for a consultation, it's a good idea to have an understanding of what's involved. That way, you will have some questions for your surgeon.

The first step in any plastic surgery procedure is a personal one. You need to decide if plastic surgery can really change your life. Realistic expectations are important at this stage. You can't expect a perfect body as a result of one procedure. At best, you can hope for an improvement of your current situation. Most patients experience a boost in self-esteem and generally feel more confident in their daily activities. If your arms really bother you that much, then it's definitely time to find a surgeon for a consultation.

Finding a surgeon can be hard, but you will be rewarded with a thorough search. Check his or her background and experience, along with the state of the surgical facility. A board-certified surgeon can help eliminate most risks associated with the surgery. With the accreditation comes a degree of professionalism and skill that you can definitely expect.

The procedure

The surgery is performed in the surgeon's local office. It's an outpatient procedure requiring only local anesthesia. In some cases, general anesthesia may be required. The difference is that local anesthesia is cheaper and less complicated. In addition, with local anesthesia you will be allowed to return home immediately following the surgery.

The whole operation takes about an hour per arm. Depending on the amount of skin and flesh to be removed, it could take several hours. The surgeon makes incisions along the inner area of the upper arm. The shape of the incision is usually elliptical or triangular. The space contained between the incisions is exactly the amount of skin that will be removed. Removal of the skin allows for tighter skin and a more compact arm, but it won't get rid of the fat. That's why an upper arm lift is usually combined with liposuction. With liposuction, the surgeon will be able to remove fat easily compared to using a scalpel.

Once complete, the surgeon will suture the skin together and possibly add a drainage duct that can be removed in a few days.

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