In warmer climates such as south Florida, people commonly wear short sleeves or sleeveless attire. Patients often complain of being self-conscious of their loose, flabby arms. This looseness and sagging can be extreme after extensive weight loss, such as after bariatric surgery. An arm lift (brachioplasty) involves removing the excess skin and fat along the length of the upper arm, creating a firmer, smoother, more youthful looking arm. Although liposuction may be utilized to reduce fullness, it is rarely sufficient to correct this problem.
The key element is the tailoring of the skin. Unfortunately, this leaves a scar running down the length of the upper arm. However, recent advances allow us to place the scar on the inside back surface where it is much less noticeable, and the newer T-shaped scar technique, which may be appropriate for less extensive deformities, leaves a much shorter scar along the upper half of the arm. So if the appearance of your arms limits your clothing style or activities, consider the possibility of an arm lift.
View the full gallery of before and after photos of the various procedures performed by Dr. Richard Schwartz.