Brachioplasty / Arm Lift Removes Bat Wing Skin After Weight Loss*

Our patient is a White female in her 40s who achieved a significant weight loss, going from a highest weight of 250 lbs to 175 lbs at the time of surgery, yet was left with loose, hanging skin along her upper arms commonly referred to as “bat wings.”  Despite maintaining her weight loss and staying active, the excess arm skin continued to shift, rub, and affect how clothing fit, concerns that cannot be corrected with exercise alone.  She chose to undergo an arm lift, also known as brachioplasty, to remove the redundant skin and create a smoother, more proportionate arm contour.  Under general anesthesia, Dr. Timothy Katzen carefully evaluated the pattern of skin laxity and marked the arms while she was standing to ensure the surgical plan matched natural arm movement.  During the procedure, an incision was placed along the inner arm, extending from the armpit toward the elbow as needed, allowing the excess skin to be removed in a controlled manner.  The deeper tissue layers were tightened to provide long-term support, and the remaining skin was re-draped to achieve a firmer, more refined shape.  When appropriate, gentle liposuction can be used to blend the contour near the armpit for a natural transition.  After surgery, a compression garment was used to help control swelling and support healing. Recovery includes expected bruising, swelling, and temporary numbness, with restrictions on lifting and overhead activity while the incisions mature.  These photos were taken 3 months after surgery and demonstrate remarkable early results with improved arm definition, reduced skin laxity, and a silhouette that better reflects her weight loss success.