Arm Lift
in Scottsdale, AZ

in Scottsdale, AZ

Table of contents:

Table of contents

At Natural Results Plastic Surgery, we offer a state-of-the-art arm lift to help our patients get a sleeker, younger-looking arm contour. Aging, fluctuations  in weight, and genetics can all cause the skin on the upper arms to sag and lose its firmness. Fortunately, with advancements in cosmetic surgery, it is now possible to firm, remove excess skin, and contour the upper arm for a smoother appearance. Our board-certified surgeon, Dr. Carlos Mata has the skills and the commitment to help patients enhance the appearance of their arms. We want everyone who comes to us to feel confident about themselves – inside and out.

What Is an Arm Lift?

A brachioplasty, or arm lift, is a surgical procedure that aims to tighten and improve the appearance of a patient’s upper arms. Our surgeons remove extra fat and skin from the area during the procedure, often extending from the underarm to the elbow. The aim  is to make the arms look younger and firmer by improving their shape. This procedure is ideal for patients with loose skin and extra fat that won’t go away with good nutrition and physical activity. Besides, it is beneficial for people who have dropped many pounds or for those getting older and seeing changes in their bodies that way.

An arm lift procedure does not cause important changes in arm muscle tone. Nevertheless, if the patient wants more fat taken out to improve the outcome of the surgery, it can be combined with liposuction. To reduce the chance of visible scarring, incisions are usually made on the inner part of the arm. These go from the armpit all the way down to the joint at the middle part of the arm.

Arm Lift Techniques

At Natural Results Plastic Surgery, we offer two main techniques for arm lifts. These differ in terms of incision placement, how we access the surgical area, and how much tissue we remove and tighten:

Full Arm Lift (Brachioplasty)

A full arm lift procedure, which is medically known  as brachioplasty, aims to get rid of the so-called “bat wings” by tightening and removing excess skin from the upper arm region. An incision is made from the armpit to the elbow so our surgeon can trim away any extra fat and skin.

The surgery is carried out under deep sedation, allowing patients to breathe on their own. Ideal candidates are those with significant skin and/or fat excess on the upper arms.

Mini Arm Lift

A mini arm lift surgery is a type of cosmetic surgery that removes a small amount of excess skin to improve the appearance of slightly saggy skin. It is less invasive than a full arm lift and involves minor incisions in the armpit. For optimal results, Dr. Mata may suggest

having this procedure alongside Magic Tight and Vaser Liposuction. Those who have minor to moderate sagging skin are the best candidates for a mini arm lift. This procedure works well on patients with mild to moderate amounts of loose skin on their arms.

Arm Lift Procedure Explained

At the initial consultation, Dr. Mata thoroughly assess the patient to ascertain whether they are better suited for a full arm lift surgery (a brachioplasty) or a mini arm lift procedure. Our surgeons go over the patient’s objectives, medical background, and the type of anesthesia required. In addition, they may take photos of patients before surgery so they can see the difference afterward and give them a price for the whole procedure.

Next, the patient receives a comprehensive check-up to identify any medical concerns. Our expert orders numerous tests, such as blood work and an electrocardiogram (EKG), if necessary, to confirm it is safe for the patient to proceed with surgery.

An arm lift has a number of medical contraindications, such as:

Marking and Anesthesia: On the surgery day, the surgeon marks the areas on a patient’s arms to indicate where he will make incisions. If a patient is getting a full-arm lift surgery, incisions are made from their elbows up to their armpits. For a mini-arm lift, incisions are made only in their armpits. After that, an anesthesiologist administers the appropriate anesthesia to ensure patient comfort.

Incisions and Adjustment: Next, our surgeon makes incisions based on the pre-surgery markings. During a full arm lift, he trims away any extra skin and removes additional fat if necessary. If a patient is having a mini arm lift, he removes only tiny amounts of excess skin before sculpting tissue underneath. In some cases, Vaser Liposuction and Magic Tight are used to enhance the results.

Closing the Incisions: After achieving the desired arm contour, the specialist uses sutures to close the incisions. The surgery usually takes two to four hours, depending on its complexity and the technique used. To aid healing and minimize swelling, patients are fitted with compression garments.

Initial Consultation & Testing

At the initial consultation, Dr. Mata or Dr. Benjamin thoroughly assess the patient to ascertain whether they are better suited for a full arm lift surgery (a brachioplasty) or a mini arm lift procedure. Our surgeons go over the patient’s objectives, medical background, and the type of anesthesia required. In addition, they may take photos of patients before surgery so they can see the difference afterward and give them a price for the whole procedure.

An arm lift has a number of medical contraindications, such as:

The Surgery

View our before
& after gallery

Add-On Procedure:
Liposuction

When getting an arm lift surgery, many patients also decide to have liposuction. This procedure can be an option for those who want to get rid of excess fat deposits and enhance the overall contour and definition of the arms. During this surgery, small tubes are used to remove fat cells from carefully mapped-out areas. This technique allows for precise sculpting and can be done on different body parts, such as the belly, sides, and legs, for a more symmetrical appearance. The recovery period might be extended if the two procedures are done simultaneously. Nonetheless, the outcomes can be highly satisfying.

Recovery After an Arm Lift

Immediate Recovery

Our medical staff keeps a close eye on them as they come out of anesthesia and begin the healing process. Patients may experience discomfort and pain during this period. However, we will provide the necessary medications and care to alleviate these symptoms. Patient will go home the same day with their caregiver.

Initial Weeks

We advise our patients to wear a compression garment during the initial month after an arm lift procedure. These provide light backing for the arms, helping alleviate post-op swelling and discomfort at incision sites. Antibiotics might also be prescribed preventatively. Sutures are typically removed 7 to 10 days post-surgery. However, we recommend our patients avoid any strenuous physical activities, sports, and exposure to heat sources such as solariums and saunas for at least two weeks.

Long-Term Results

On average, it takes approximately three to four months for swelling to go down completely after an arm lift. However, individual recovery times may vary. Final results can only be thoroughly evaluated or appreciated once this swelling has gone away entirely. We recommend that our arm lift patients have regular check-up appointments to oversee recovery progress and ensure that their arms heal properly. To get the best possible long-term results, patients should continue following all care instructions our surgeon provides.

Candidates for an Arm Lift

An arm lift is designed to enhance the appearance of the upper arms. Identifying ideal candidates for this procedure is crucial to ensure successful outcomes. Here are the key criteria:

Significant Upper Arm Skin Laxity

This procedure is ideal for adults with significant loose and sagging skin in the upper arms. Such conditions often arise from aging, genetic factors, or substantial weight loss.

Stable Weight

Those who want to maintain long-term results should maintain a stable weight that is relatively close to their ideal body weight. Significant weight loss can adversely affect the arm shape.

Good Health

Good candidates are patients in good health with no medical conditions impairing healing or increasing the risks of surgery. These conditions may include diabetes, heart disease, or immune system disorders.

Non-smokers

Nicotine can hinder healing and increase the chance of complications. It is usually recommended that patients give up smoking well in advance of their operation date.

Positive Outlook

Patients should possess a positive mindset and reasonable expectations about the results of an arm lift. Understanding what the procedure can and cannot do is essential for being happy with the outcome.

Benefits of Arm Lift Surgery

Arm lift surgery has several advantages for people who want to enhance the look of their upper arms. Here are a few of the main benefits:

Enhanced Aesthetic
Appearance

Improved Contour: Arm lift surgery removes loose skin and excess fat deposits in the upper arm. Thus, it tones and tightens the arms’ appearance for a youthful look.

Reduction of Sagging: This surgical procedure effectively addresses sagging skin, often referred to as “bat wings,” providing a smoother and tighter arm appearance.

Physical
Comfort

Reduced Irritation: Removing the extra skin can help relieve any pain or irritation that results from the skin rubbing against clothing or other areas of skin.

Ease of Movement: Firmer arms can make it easier to move around and do physical things because there is less extra skin getting in the way.

Increased Confidence
and Self-Esteem

Body Image Improvement: By obtaining a more pleasing arm silhouette, patients frequently experience increased self-confidence. They feel at ease when sporting tops or dresses without sleeves.

Positive Self-Perception: More attractive arms can make patients feel better about their overall look and themselves.

Cost of an Arm Lift in Scottsdale

The average arm lift cost in Scottsdale, AZ, ranges from $6,000 to $12,000. The fee covers everything associated with the surgery – equipment, operating room use, supplies, anesthesia, and any needed follow-up care. Still, Various factors can affect the price, including how complicated a case is and whether a patient combines an arm lift with additional procedures such as liposuction. To receive a detailed explanation of the arm lift surgery and an individualized cost estimate, patients should set up an appointment with Dr. Mata.

Natural Results Plastic Surgery Is the Best Destination for an Arm Lift in Scottsdale

Natural Results Plastic Surgery in Scottsdale is the top choice for arm lift procedures, offering exceptional care and outstanding results. Led by Dr. Carlos Mata, aka Dr. Scottsdale, a Harvard-trained, board-certified plastic surgeon, the clinic provides personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s needs. His expertise in body contouring ensures precise and aesthetically pleasing outcomes that can address excess skin and fat. The state-of-the-art facility and compassionate staff create a comfortable and supportive patient environment. Choose Natural Results Plastic Surgery for a trusted and transformative arm lift experience, prioritizing safety, comfort, and satisfaction.

Arm Lift videos

We accept a wide range

Traveling from out