Overview
The upper arms can develop hanging skin, commonly called “bat wings,” from significant weight loss and natural aging. An arm lift, also known as a brachioplasty, is one of the 5 most popular after weight loss surgeries, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. At Contour Plastic Surgery & MedSpa in Downers Grove, IL, Dr. Paresi helps patients improve the contour of their upper arms by performing arm lifts that first remove excess skin, then tighten the underlying muscle and tissues for smooth, slim arms. To learn more about arm lift surgery and how it can improve your confidence, patients in the Chicago area can schedule a consultation with Dr. Paresi at his office in Downers Grove, IL.
Limited Incision Brachioplasties
In some cases, patients are a candidate for a limited incision brachioplasty. This involves an incision that is shorter in length than the standard armpit to elbow brachioplasty incision. The incision can be located just in the armpit area or half the distance from the armpit to the elbow. To be a candidate for this shorter incision, patients must only have skin excess only on the proximal aspect of the arm.
Use of Liposuction in Brachioplasties
Most patients that are interested in a brachioplasty have some residual fat around the arms. In these cases, the arms are treated with circumferential liposuction before the skin excision. This allows for better arm contour and more skin removal due to the decrease in arm circumference. The also allows for better arm definition and visibility of the shoulders.
Arm Lift (Brachioplasty) Results
Surgical Technique
After Surgery
Arm Lift (Brachioplasty) FAQs
Liposuction or Lift?
What About Scarring?
It’s important that patients understand scarring is a part of this procedure. It is recommended that patients avoid sun exposure during the first year to protect the incisions from any additional discoloration. Most patients believe the scars are a small trade-off for a new, shapelier arm. We will discuss scar care to help assist in the healing process.
Combination Surgery?
It is common for arm lift patients to combine this surgery with another procedure. Some common techniques often combined during what is known as an “upper body lift” include liposuction, abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) and breast surgery (breast lift). During your consultation, each surgery will be discussed and recommendations will be made on whether these procedures should be done at the same time.
How Toned Will I Look?
Still have a question?
At Contour Plastic Surgery & Med Spa, our expert team is here to guide you every step of the way. We’re happy to answer your questions and help you feel confident in your choices. Contact us today to schedule your consultation — your journey to looking and feeling your best starts here!
















