The skin on the upper arms is particularly susceptible to laxity. Significant weight loss, or simply the effects of gravity and aging, can lead to drooping, excess skin and fat that hangs from the underside of the arm—often referred to as "bat wings." This issue is challenging to correct with exercise alone.

At The Plastics Atelier in Omaha, we specialize in Arm Lift (Brachioplasty) surgery, a procedure designed to excise this excess skin and fat, resulting in smoother, firmer, and more toned upper arms that are proportionate to your body.

Why Consider an Arm Lift?

An Arm Lift is the most effective way to address the consequences of skin laxity on the arms, providing both aesthetic and functional improvements:

• Aesthetic Improvement: Creating a slender, more defined contour that allows you to feel confident wearing short sleeves, sleeveless shirts, and swimwear.

• Contour Restoration: Removing the loose, hanging skin that obscures muscle definition.

• Comfort and Fit: Eliminating chafing and allowing clothing to fit better.

The Surgical Technique

The technique used for a Brachioplasty is customized based on the amount and location of excess skin and fat. Dr. Hall focuses on achieving the tightest possible contour with the most inconspicuous scarring.

1. Traditional Arm Lift (Full Brachioplasty)

This technique is used for patients with moderate to severe skin laxity extending from the armpit to the elbow.

• Incision: A long incision is placed on the underside of the arm (medial aspect), running from the armpit down to the elbow.

• Goal: Provides the most dramatic tightening and removal of the largest amount of excess skin and fat.

2. Minimal-Incision Arm Lift (Limited Brachioplasty)

This technique is reserved for patients whose skin laxity is confined to the upper third of the arm, near the armpit.

• Incision: A much shorter incision is made entirely within the armpit (axilla).

• Goal: To achieve moderate tightening with a scar that is fully concealed in the armpit fold.

3. Liposuction Integration

In many cases, liposuction is performed first to remove the bulk of fatty deposits, followed by excision to tighten and remove the redundant skin envelope. This combination provides the best definition and smoothness.

Recovery and Scarring

A successful Brachioplasty requires meticulous care and adherence to recovery protocols.

• Downtime: Most patients can return to light activity and desk work within 1 week.

• Lifting Restrictions: Patients must avoid lifting anything over 5 pounds and avoid strenuous arm movements for 4 to 6 weeks to protect the incision lines.

• Scarring: The scar from a traditional arm lift is permanent but is carefully positioned on the inner or posterior surface of the arm to be less visible when the arms are at rest. Scar care protocols are provided to encourage the best possible healing.

If you are ready to achieve the sleek, firm upper arms you desire, we invite you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Hall at The Plastics Atelier in Omaha, Nebraska.