Arm lifts, also referred to as brachioplasty, are one of the fastest growing cosmetic procedures performed today. Since 2000, the procedure has seen a 4,000% growth, according to statistics from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Why the increased interest in “arm jobs”? Positive results from the procedure are a driving force.
What is Brachioplasty?
Brachioplasty is used to remove excess skin and fat from the underside of the upper arm for a firmer, more toned appearance. The best candidates for this procedure include adults with significant skin laxity in the upper arm, or those who have recently lost a large amount of weight that has left them with sagging skin.
Liposuction may be used during the procedure to remove excess fat from the area, and then the skin is tightened and extra skin is removed completely. The procedure may be performed under general anesthesia, Pain is minimal and bruising and swelling generally subsides in a few days to a few weeks. Patients may be advised to wear compression garments for a period of time to promote healthy blood flow and faster healing.
Dr. Geoffrey Leber performs the brachioplasty procedure on an outpatient basis at his Scottsdale Surgery Center. Surgery typically takes two to three hours to complete, and patients go home the same day. Patients are able to see initial results immediately after the procedure.
What about Scarring?
Scarring is often the primary concern for patients considering brachioplasty. The traditional procedure involves an incision stretching from the elbow to the armpit. Dr. Leber performs the procedure so that the scar is located on the underside of the arm. This makes scarring nearly invisible when the arm is at rest or extended from the body.
Dr. Leber also offers a mini-brachioplasty or “short-scar” procedure that provides excellent results with a smaller incision that can be hidden under short-sleeved clothing. The procedure is an option for patients who do not require as much skin and fat removal to achieve positive results.
While scarring is inevitable with any brachioplasty procedure, it is not as obtrusive as many patients fear. Most also consider a permanent scar to be an acceptable trade-off for firmer, more attractive upper arms.
Brachioplasty is one of the many cosmetic options offered by Dr. Geoffrey Leber at his plastic surgery office located in Scottsdale, Arizona. The procedure offers positive results with minimal recovery time afterward. For more information about arm lifts, or other cosmetic procedures, contact Dr. Geoffrey Leber’s office today at (480) 945-5522 or visit our contact page.
By Dr. Geoffrey E. Leber, MD – Follow me on Google+