Arm Lift (Brachioplasty)

A good candidate for an arm lift is typically an individual who has significant upper arm skin laxity. This procedure is well-suited for adults of any age, provided their weight is relatively stable and they are not significantly overweight. It’s important for candidates to be healthy, without medical conditions that could impair healing or increase the risk of surgery. Patients should be nonsmokers, as smoking can affect the healing process and increase surgical risks. Additionally, it’s crucial for candidates to have a positive outlook and realistic expectations about the outcomes of an arm lift. This mindset helps in achieving satisfaction with the results and understanding the extent of the changes that the surgery can bring.

Arm lift surgery, like any surgical procedure, comes with a set of potential risks. These include anesthesia risks, bleeding, infection, blood clots, damage to deeper structures, fat necrosis, seroma, wound breakdown, as well as numbness or changes in skin sensation, among others. Finally, unsightly scarring is a significant consideration. While Dr. Sohn uses advanced surgical techniques that aim to minimize scarring, the degree and appearance of scars can vary based on individual healing processes and other factors. It’s important for anyone considering an arm lift to be aware of these risks and to discuss them thoroughly with Dr. Sohn during the consultation process.

The results of an arm lift surgery are generally long-lasting, especially if you maintain a stable weight and good fitness levels. While it is natural for your body to lose some firmness as you age, the majority of the improvements gained from the surgery should remain relatively permanent. To ensure the success and longevity of your surgery, it’s crucial to follow Dr. Sohn’s post-operative instructions and advice closely. This adherence plays a key role in sustaining the outcomes of the procedure over time.

Scarring is an expected outcome of an arm lift surgery, with the visibility and degree of scars varying among individuals. Factors influencing scar appearance include your skin tone, with different tones responding differently to the healing process, and any personal history of raised scars or keloids, which can lead to more prominent scarring. Additionally, how much the scarred area is exposed to the sun can affect scar visibility, as sunlight can darken scars. The exact location of the incisions also plays a significant role in how noticeable the scars are. Understanding these factors can help set realistic expectations about post-surgical scarring. It’s important to discuss these aspects with Dr. Sohn to gain a clear understanding of how they might apply to your specific case.

Yes, an arm lift can indeed be combined with other body contouring procedures, a practice common in both cosmetic and reconstructive surgery. This approach allows for a more comprehensive transformation and can be particularly beneficial for patients looking to address multiple areas of concern. During the initial consultation, Dr. Sohn will assess your overall health, your specific goals, and the areas where you wish to remove excess skin or fat deposits. Depending on these factors, an arm lift can be effectively combined with a body lift, tummy tuck, thigh lift, or breast lift. Additionally, facial procedures like a facelift or brow lift can be performed in the same surgical session, although Dr. Sohn will carefully consider the total operative time and recovery implications. This comprehensive approach to cosmetic surgery can provide more pronounced and satisfying results for those looking to enhance multiple body areas simultaneously.