What is an Arm Lift?
An arm lift, also known as brachioplasty, uses a variety of advanced cosmetic procedure techniques to remove excess skin and fat deposits from the upper arm, leading to a restored, youthful, and fit look. Manhattan plastic surgeon, Dr. Kenneth Rothaus, is highly trained and experienced in arm lift surgery and other body contouring procedures and techniques. In order to lift the arm, an incision was typically made from under the elbow along the inner arm to the upper arm. Dr. Rothaus rarely uses that approach, however, because of the significant scar. He most frequently performs a limited incision brachioplasty with the incision hidden entirely in the axilla (arm pit) in combination with devices such as the SmartLipo™ laser, the SlimLipo™ laser or the ThermiTight® radiofrequency device. Adding energies such as a laser or radiofrequency will help in achieving for greater success.
Who is a Good Candidate for Brachioplasty?
The best candidates for an arm lift procedure are men or women who have loose and hanging skin from the underside of the upper arm. This skin keeps these individuals from wearing short sleeves or fitting clothing. Patients must be at or near their goal weight. This surgery is not reserved for weight loss patients alone. As we all know, aging and gravity can also have a negative effect on the arms, even in those patients who have never gained and lost large amounts of weight. Patients who are in good health and wish to have their arms toned and tightened may also consider this procedure.
What is the Procedure for an Arm Lift?
A brachioplasty procedure is performed to improve the appearance of the upper arms. Dr. Rothaus will evaluate the skin quality and laxity and determine how much fat and skin should be removed to attain the results the patient desires. Patients with minimal excess skin may require only a minor incision. Massive weight loss patients with excessively loose and hanging skin will require a more extensive approach. The excess skin is trimmed and removed during surgery. Often, the procedure is combined with liposuction, laser lipolysis, or a radiofrequency procedure to achieve the desired result.
What is Brachioplasty Recovery Time?
Swelling is expected after brachioplasty surgery, although this varies between patients. The swelling starts to resolve during the first one to two weeks after surgery. A compression garment or sleeve will usually be needed to control this swelling and help keep the arm protected. Most patients can resume modest arm activity in three weeks. While scarring is unfortunately a part of this procedure, our doctor will provide a scar treatment plan so that the incision heals in a healthy and quick manner.
Plan Your Procedure
Recovery Time: 10-14 days
Average Procedure Time: 1-2 hours
Procedure Recovery Location: Outpatient
Real Patient Testimonials
Not only is Dr. Rothaus incredibly experienced and knowledgeable, he is also incredibly personable. It’s so refreshing to have a doctor who is not only amazing at what he does, but also has your best interests at heart. I sincerely value that I’m being told all the facts before making any decisions. Highly recommend him!
Get Toned Arms Today
If you are in the process of completing your weight loss journey, or if aging and gravity has caused loose skin to hang from your arms, we encourage you to contact our office and schedule a consultation with our talented staff today. As a board-certified plastic surgeon experienced in body contouring surgery, our doctor creates tighter, youthful-looking arms with lasting results. Rothaus Plastic Surgery serves patients living in New York, the Upper East Side, Manhattan, Westchester, and nearby communities in New York.
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About Dr. Rothaus
Kenneth O. Rothaus, MD is a board-certified Manhattan and Westchester plastic surgeon offering cosmetic and reconstructive surgery for the face, breast, body, and skin. Educated at Yale College and Harvard Medical School, Dr. Rothaus’ general and plastic surgery training was at the Columbia and Cornell campuses of the New York Presbyterian Hospital. Dr. Rothaus values the wants and needs of his patients and strives to give them the best experience possible.
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