What Can I do About Excess Arm Skin After Massive Weight Loss?
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There is almost nothing more rewarding than losing a significant amount of weight to improve your health and feel better about your appearance. However, many people are left with excess skin in areas like the upper arms. Loose skin makes it challenging to fully enjoy your weight loss results.
Fortunately, there are ways to deal with this issue. Below, our board-certified plastic surgeons at Forma Plastic Surgery explore the possibility of arm lift surgery in Scottsdale, AZ. We hope to provide patients with a better understanding of their options and how we can help achieve their ideal body contours.
How does massive weight loss affect the arms?
Massive weight loss, whether it is the result of bariatric surgery or diet and exercise, can leave patients with loose skin from the elbows to the upper arms (sometimes called "bat wings"). Excess skin causes many potential problems in your day-to-day life, including:
- Chafing, rashes, or even infection
- Restrictions in range of motion
- Difficulty finding tops that fit properly
- Self-consciousness about your appearance
An arm lift (brachioplasty) is a cosmetic surgery that involves excess skin removal in the upper arms, improving the appearance and function of the area.
Is surgery the only way to address loose skin?
In some cases, people can improve their upper arm skin through nonsurgical treatments. Of course, these methods are not suitable for everyone and do not provide the same dramatic results as arm lift surgery in Scottsdale, AZ. Our skilled surgeons work with each patient to determine the best course of treatment, whether it is an arm lift or an alternative procedure.
During an arm lift, Forma Plastic Surgery may also recommend liposuction to remove small fat deposits left behind from weight loss. Fat removal is not always possible with noninvasive methods, making surgery the best choice for many patients.
How does excess skin removal work?
An arm lift is an outpatient procedure, which means our patients return home on the same day. Those who combine their arm lifts with another treatment (like a tummy tuck) may require an overnight stay in the surgical facility.
Once the general anesthesia takes effect, our surgeons make an incision in the arms to access the excess skin. The length and location of the incisions depend on how much tissue needs to be removed. Rest assured that we place incisions in inconspicuous areas, so any scarring is not easily seen.
Forma Plastic Surgery closes the incisions with sutures and then applies compression bandages or a garment to help with healing. We also provide detailed postoperative instructions to ensure a smooth, comfortable recovery.
Do results from an arm lift look natural?
We understand that some people are concerned about how their arms will look after surgery. Our experienced surgeons take great care to ensure your results look natural and balanced with the rest of your body. When massive weight loss has left patients with disproportionate arms, an arm lift can create a more toned, proportionate look. No "bat wings" that get in the way of an active lifestyle.
Ask about excess skin removal
Loose or hanging skin on your arms can be a nuisance, but you don't have to live with this problem forever. Now, you can complete your weight loss journey with arm lift surgery in Scottsdale, AZ. Forma Plastic Surgery understands the unique challenges involved with weight loss and can create the toned body you have worked so hard for. Call now to schedule an assessment with our team.