When Should My Arm Lift Scars Begin To Fade?

While losing a great deal of weight can certainly be a life-changing accomplishment, many after weight loss patients find it difficult to enjoy the results of their hard work due to lingering excess arm skin. Loose, stretched arm skin that remains after weight loss often leaves patients feeling self-conscious and unable to wear certain styles of clothing or participate in social situations comfortably. For this reason, countless weight loss patients turn to arm skin removal surgery as a final step in their physical transformation.

plastic surgeon, Dr. Timothy Katzen is known worldwide for his innovative and effective surgical skin removal techniques and is a highly sought-after expert in the field of weight loss body contouring. Among the most popular skin removal procedures is arm lift surgery. Arm lift surgery gives men and women an opportunity to achieve more natural, appealing, toned arms that should be shown off with confidence. Read on to learn more about arm lift surgery by the exceptional team at J. Timothy Katzen, M.D. Beverly Hills.

What is a brachioplasty?

Brachioplasty, more commonly referred to as arm lift surgery. A brachiopush is a plastic surgery skin removal procedure designed to improve the appearance of the arms, and improve arm function and mobility. The development of excess skin on the upper arms – from the elbow to the shoulder – often occurs as a result of significant weight loss. In some cases, men and women may notice an increasing amount of loose, hanging skin on their arms as they age or as a result of genetics. In either case, a brachioplasty is an effective solution to remove excess arm skin, (sometimes called “bat wings,”) for a tighter, slimmer, more natural-appearing look. In addition, arm lift surgery can improve patients’ upper body mobility and also help with recurrent skin conditions, including rash, chafing, and infection.

How does arm lift surgery work?

In most cases, arm lift surgery is performed as an outpatient procedure, this means patients are able to return home the same day as the surgery and begin their recovery. When combined with additional procedures, perhaps as part of a full upper body lift or mommy makeover, Dr. Katzen may recommend that the patient stay overnight for monitoring.

Generally speaking, an arm lift in Beverly Hills, CA usually takes about 2 – 3 hours to complete, depending on whether additional surgeries are being performed, and involves an incision on the upper arm. The precise length and position of the incision will depend on the amount of excess arm skin and fat that needs to be removed. In many cases, Dr. Katzen will also use arm liposuction to remove small deposits of fat in the upper arm, giving the patient an even smoother, more even, and more beautiful result. Once the arm skin has been removed, the remaining arm skin is pulled taut and secured with sutures.

Arm lift recovery can take several weeks or even months. Patients should expect to wear compression garments and keep their arms elevated as much as possible. Physical activity and exercise will likely be off-limits for up to six weeks. Patients are encouraged to engage in short, frequent walks to keep mobile, promote healthy healing, and avoid complications.

What do arm lift surgery scars look like?

As with any surgery, the appearance of scars can vary from patient to patient and depend on genetics, age, skin health, your plastic surgeon’s skill, and other factors. When it comes to the arm lift specifically, the length and position of the incision and resulting arm scar can vary based on how much excess arm skin needs to be removed. Dr. Katzen shares in patients’ desires to have minimal visible scarring and takes great care to place his incisions in areas where they can be concealed or camouflaged. However, patients should have realistic expectations about their arm results and understand that some level of visible arm scarring will result after arm lift surgery. That said, most patients agree that the stunning improvement in their arms is well worth the presence of an arm scar.

How long does it take for arm lift scars to fade?

Most patients will notice their arm lift incisions beginning to heal after a few weeks. In some cases, arm scars may take several months to become soft and flexible. With proper care, including the use of topical creams and ointments, the arm scars should continue to fade over time. For many people, the fading process can take up to a year or longer. It is important to be patient and continue to follow Dr. Katzen’s postoperative recommendations. This includes avoiding sun exposure.

Can an arm lift be combined with other procedures?

Absolutely! Many patients choose to pair their arm lift surgeries with additional procedures for an even more dramatic transformation in Beverly Hills, CA. Some of the most common procedures performed alongside brachioplasty include:

• Tummy tuck

• Butt lift

• Breast augmentation

• Breast lift

• Liposuction

• Upper body lift

• Lower body lift

• Mommy makeover

During your initial consultation, Dr. Katzen will discuss your concerns and goals at length during your consultation, Dr. Katzen will recommend a customized surgical plan that best meets your needs and helps you to achieve your ideal look.

If you are tired of feeling self-conscious and hiding your arms, call the friendly team at J. Timothy Katzen, M.D. Beverly Hills to schedule your one-on-one consultation with award-winning skin removal plastic surgeon Dr. Timothy Katzen today, and learn more about how arm lift surgery can help you finally achieve the body of your dreams!

Call today to schedule a consultation. Physical or virtual consultations can be arranged. Options include FaceTime, Zoom, Skype, or WhatsApp virtual consultation. Call Dr. Katzen today for your consultation to achieve the arms of your dreams.

BEFORE AND AFTER