The upper arms can be a problem for a lot of people. Factors like aging can cause significant skin sagging around the upper arms due to skin laxity. Fluctuations in weight can also cause fat to accumulate in the arms and the skin to stretch, leading to flabby, bumpy arms. At Queen Plastic Surgery in Charlotte, NC, we offer arm liposuction and arm lift surgery to help rejuvenate and refine the appearance of your arms. If you are bothered by your upper arms, here is what you should know about each procedure to help you decide which one is right for you.
Aging, weight fluctuations, and genetic factors are the main culprits affecting the appearance of the upper arms. Weight loss, in particular, can be difficult, as the arms may now have visible stretch marks in addition to a loose, flabby appearance. In addition, small deposits of fat can remain in the upper arms, giving the skin’s surface a bumpy, uneven appearance. Some of the most common upper arm issues include:
Arm liposuction can be an effective option for addressing specific aesthetic concerns in the upper arms, though it has its limitations. Liposuction is a body-contouring procedure that can reshape specific areas of the body by removing excess fat. The procedure uses small incisions to access the fat in the arms and can give the upper arms a smoother, more toned appearance: the benefits of upper arm liposuction include:
One of the most common misconceptions we see during consultations is that liposuction can tighten loose upper arm skin. Liposuction removes fat, but it does not significantly improve skin laxity. Patients with substantial skin excess following weight loss often achieve better results with an arm lift, sometimes combined with liposuction. Patients who have undergone major weight loss or have stretched, wrinkled upper arm skin will not achieve the results they desire from the procedure. Arm liposuction is ideal for people who:
An arm lift is a more comprehensive option for body contouring compared to arm liposuction. An arm lift can both eliminate loose skin and remove stubborn fat from the area. In some cases, an arm lift may require the use of arm liposuction.
During an arm lift, incisions are made along the side or back of the upper arms so that loose skin and fat can be excised. Excess fat may be removed through liposuction. The remaining arm skin is then tightly wrapped around the upper arm muscles to create a more contoured and defined appearance that looks smooth and tight. The benefits of an arm lift include:
An arm lift is a more invasive option and requires more recovery. The recovery period can also be more uncomfortable compared to liposuction. This procedure is best reserved for patients with moderate to severe arm sagging.
If the primary issue you have is bulky upper arms and more definition due to excess arm fat, arm liposuction may be your best option. If you have noticeably loose and dangling skin or visible wrinkles and lumps along your upper arms, an arm lift may be the best choice. The best way to know which procedure is best for you is to schedule a consultation with a skilled and experienced plastic surgeon who can determine which option will provide you with your ideal results.
Dr. Haque is a board-certified plastic surgeon with the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) and is affiliated with the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (ASAPS), and the American College of Surgeons (FACS), who has been recognized as one of the top surgeons in Charlotte, NC. He completed his plastic and reconstructive fellowship at Saint Louis University and continually studies new advancements and cutting-edge treatments to ensure he provides our patients with the best possible care and results.
If you want to refine the shape and appearance of your arms, contact Queen Plastic Surgery today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Haque in Charlotte, NC. He can answer any questions you may have about arm liposuction and arm lift surgery and help you restore the natural beauty of your upper arms.
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