Spring has arrived to Iowa and residents are starting to pack away the winter sweaters and break out the spring clothing. If concerns about the appearance of your upper arms are getting in the way of your anticipation of spring, perhaps an arm lift is in your future. This surgical procedure reverses the “bat wing” appearance that is common with age and weight fluctuations, creating a smoother arm contour you will be proud to flaunt in your sleeveless fashions.
Aging and the Upper Arm
Time takes an unfortunate toll on the upper arm. As we age, our bodies produce less of an important protein known as collagen. One of the functions of collagen is to maintain the firm suppleness of the skin. When collagen levels are depleted, the result is acute skin laxity, which can be especially apparent on the underside of the upper arm.
At the same time, isolated areas of fat can accumulate in this area, further exacerbating the “bat wing” look. For some women, the problem becomes pronounced enough to keep them from wearing short sleeves and sleeveless fashions with confidence.
What an Arm Lift will do
An arm lift is a surgical procedure that reverses these trends and sculpts a slimmer, smoother upper arm. The procedure removes the excess, hanging skin, as well as the excess fat and tissue in the area. The result is a smoother, more youthful upper arm contour that will help you regain confidence in your appearance.
The success of your arm lift procedure will depend on the experience and skill of the plastic surgeon you choose. Dr. Andrews has performed many arm lifts and can tailor your procedure to your specifications. In some cases, surgical excision of the redundant skin is all that is needed to create beautiful results. In other cases, Dr. Andrews might combine the excision process with liposuction to further enhance the sleeker upper arm profile.
Procedure Basics
Arm lifts are usually performed under general anesthesia as an outpatient surgery. An incision is made along the underside of the upper arm that may extend from the chest-wall to the elbow. However, patients who do not require as much correction may be able to get full results through a shorter incision.
Through the incision, Dr. Andrews will remove the extra skin and tissue as necessary. He will take great care in suturing the incision to create the least conspicuous scar possible. The placement of the incision will also be made with the intention of minimizing visible scarring.
Bruising and swelling are common after this procedure, but oral medication will keep you comfortable in the first few days after your surgery. Recovery from an arm lift usually takes a couple of weeks, although you will likely be ready to resume light activities within a week. You will be given instructions in caring for your incision to ensure it heals well.
Long-Lasting Results
An arm lift provides dramatic, long-lasting results that will extend for many years. It is possible over time that the effects of aging will once again take their toll and you may find you need a touch-up procedure to maintain your positive effects. Skin rejuvenation procedures are also available to restore the skin in the area to a smoother, more youthful appearance.
Don’t worry about the warmer days ahead because you are self-conscious about your appearance. Contact Dr. Andrews Plastic Surgery today at 319-800-6877 to find out if you are a candidate for an arm lift.
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