Which Body Contouring Option Is Right For You?
Arm Lift
Also known as Brachioplasty, an arm lift is a form of body contouring that reduces the amount of excess skin to create toned arms and reduce sagging. Sagging skin on your arms is often caused by weight loss or by a loss of skin elasticity as we age. In both instances, arm lifts can be used to remove the excess skin to make the arms sleeker and the skin firmer. An arm lift involves a surgical procedure that focuses on the upper arm. Excess skin between the elbow and the armpit is removed and a plastic surgeon tightens the underlying tissues to support the new contours of the arm. To learn more, read Body Contouring: What Is An Arm Lift? Because arm lifts remove skin, they do leave a scar on the underarm, although your plastic surgeon will try to place incisions discreetly to minimize visibility.
Arm Liposuction
Unlike an arm lift, arm liposuction does not focus on the skin of the arm but on the underlying fat. This body contouring option is used to reduce the number of fat cells within the upper arms to create a more toned appearance. Liposuction does not change or affect the skin other than very minor scarring where incisions are made to insert the liposuction device. If you do opt for liposuction, you should know that this form of body contouring is used to remove pockets of stubborn fat and create a more satisfying silhouette; liposuction is not a form of weight loss. Plastic surgeons recommend that you are within 10lbs of your goal weight before you receive liposuction. To learn more about liposuction, read What Are The Benefits And Risks Of Liposuction?
Which Is Right For Me?
The body contouring procedure you decide on will depend on what concern you are addressing: excess fat or excess skin. If your underarms have loose skin that bothers you when you move your arms, you will likely want to opt for an arm lift. But if you want to make your arms slimmer, you should consider liposuction. The other option is to opt for both: if you want to reduce the amount of fat on your arms while also reducing any excess skin, you can receive both procedures at the same time. Combining both an arm lift and liposuction will create toned arms with the recovery time of only one procedure, saving you time and money compared to undergoing each treatment separately.
Body Contouring For Beautiful Arms
If you want to get rid of fat or excess skin on your arms, Peterson MD can help you get the toned arms you dream of. During a consultation, Dr. Peterson will help you determine which procedure will get you the results you want. Dr. Peterson and the team at Peterson MD are the Okanagan’s choice for surgical body contouring procedures. We specialize in transformative cosmetic surgical producers with exceptional and lasting results. We are committed to a high standard of patient education and care and to providing surgical and non-surgical treatments to help patients look and feel their very best. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Peterson, call 1-250-868-9099 or fill out the online contact form.
FAQ
Q: Who is not a viable candidate for arm lift plastic surgery?
A: Before you are approved for plastic surgery, Dr. Peterson will conduct an exam that includes a discussion of your past and current health. You may not be eligible for body contouring if you:
- Smoke
- Are pregnant
- Are on medications that may interact with the anaesthetic
- Are considered overweight
- Have pre-existing health conditions that may interfere with recovery
Every person is different and your eligibility may be dependent on a number of factors. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Peterson to see if you are eligible for an arm lift.
Q: Are there any risks associated with arm lift plastic surgery?
A: As with any surgery, an arm lift does come with some risks. Your plastic surgeon will discuss these with you and you can decide if these potential risks are acceptable. Some of these include:
- Scarring
- Bleeding and infection
- Anaesthesia risks
- Numbness or other changes in skin sensation in the treatment area
- Damage to your nerves, blood vessels, and/or muscles in the treatment area
- Increased risk of developing blood clots
During your consultation, ensure that you address any concerns and questions you have regarding your treatment with your plastic surgeon.
Q: Are the results of liposuction permanent?
A: Yes. Liposuction removes fat cells permanently. However, fat cells in other parts of your body can still expand if you gain weight.
