Which Is the Best Procedure for You?
When it comes to improving the appearance of your upper arms, you might be wondering whether an arm lift or arm liposuction is the right choice for you. In this blog, we’ll explore these two popular procedures, focusing on how they can address common concerns like excess fat and loose skin in the upper arms.
Chester Consultant Plastic Surgeon Anca Breahna is dedicated to assisting patients in reaching their aesthetic aspirations, offering a variety of surgical options including arm lift and arm liposuction
Excess Fat and Loose Skin on the Arms
Many people find that despite exercise and a healthy diet, they still struggle with certain areas of their body. One common area of concern is the upper arms. You might notice that your arms have surplus loose skin or excess fat that doesn’t seem to go away, no matter how much you work out.
Excess fat and loose skin on the arms can manifest in several ways, often affecting both appearance and, in some cases, functionality. The specific look and feel can vary depending on the individual’s overall body composition, age, and skin condition.
Appearance of Excess Fat
- Location: Excess fat on the arms typically accumulates in the upper arm region, particularly around the triceps area. This can lead to a fuller, rounder appearance of the upper arms
- Texture: The skin in areas with excess fat may appear softer and less toned. In cases where there is a significant amount of fat, the arms might have a dimpled or cellulite-like texture
- Shape: Arms with excess fat might lack definition and appear less contoured. The natural muscle tone and shape can be obscured by the fat layer
Appearance of Loose Skin
- Sagging: One of the most noticeable features of loose skin on the arms is sagging, often referred to colloquially as “bat wings.” This sagging skin can hang from the lower part of the upper arms and can be more pronounced when the arms are raised or in motion
- Texture and Elasticity: Loose skin may have a wrinkled or crepe-like texture, lacking the firmness and elasticity of younger, tighter skin. This change in texture is often due to a reduction in collagen and elastin fibres in the skin
- Volume: Unlike excess fat, loose skin does not add volume. Instead, it can create a deflated or droopy appearance, especially noticeable in individuals who have experienced significant weight loss
In many cases, individuals may experience a combination of both excess fat and loose skin. This can result in arms that appear bulky due to the underlying fat, compounded by a sagging or drooping appearance from the skin laxity. The overall look can vary significantly from person to person, influenced by factors like the extent of weight loss, age-related changes, and genetics.
Excess skin and fat can sometimes interfere with arm movement or cause discomfort during physical activities. The appearance of the arms can be a source of self-consciousness or dissatisfaction for some, impacting their choice of clothing or participation in activities that might expose their arms.
It’s important to note that the appearance of excess fat and loose skin can vary widely among individuals. Factors such as skin tone, overall health, lifestyle, and genetics play a significant role in how these conditions manifest.
Factors Contributing to Saggy Upper Arms
When you’re facing the issue of saggy upper arms, it’s helpful to understand what causes this common concern. Several factors can lead to the development of saggy skin and excess fat in this area. Let’s look at some of the key contributors.
- Ageing: As you get older, your skin naturally loses some of its elasticity. This is a normal part of ageing. Over time, you might notice that the skin on your upper arms becomes looser and starts to sag. This is because the collagen and elastin fibres, which keep your skin firm, gradually break down
- Weight Fluctuations: Significant changes in your weight can also affect the appearance of your arms. If you gain a lot of weight, the skin stretches to accommodate the increased volume. Conversely, when you lose weight, especially if it’s a substantial amount in a short period, your skin might not shrink back completely. This can leave you with excess, saggy skin on your arms
- Genetic Predisposition: Sometimes, the tendency to develop saggy arms is simply down to your genes. If your family members have experienced similar issues, there’s a higher chance you might too. Genetics play a significant role in determining your skin’s elasticity and overall body shape
- Decreased Muscle Tone: Your muscle tone can also impact the appearance of your arms. If the muscles in your upper arms are not as firm or defined, it can contribute to a saggy appearance. This is often a result of not engaging in enough strength training or physical activities that target the arm muscles
- Gravity: Lastly, gravity is an unavoidable force that affects all parts of your body over time. The constant downward pull can contribute to the sagging of skin, including in the upper arm area
Arm Lift and Arm Liposuction – Surgical Solutions for Excess Fat and Saggy Skin
When you’re considering ways to improve the appearance of your upper arms, two procedures often come to mind: Arm Lift (Brachioplasty) and Arm Liposuction. Both have their unique approaches and are suited to different needs. Let’s break down each procedure to help you understand them better:
Arm Lift (Brachioplasty)
- Definition and Overview: An arm lift, or brachioplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to remove excess skin and fat from the upper arms. This procedure is particularly effective for those who have sagging skin that cannot be addressed through exercise alone
- Procedure Details: During an arm lift, Anca makes an incision, typically running from the underarm to the elbow. Through this incision, excess skin and fat are removed. The remaining skin is then tightened and sutured back into place, resulting in a more toned and contoured arm appearance
- Ideal Candidates: You might be a good candidate for an arm lift if you have significant sagging skin on your upper arms, often due to weight loss or natural ageing. It’s important that you’re in good overall health, a non-smoker, and have realistic expectations about the outcome
Arm Liposuction
- Definition and Overview: Arm liposuction is a cosmetic procedure aimed at removing excess fat from the upper arms. Unlike an arm lift, it doesn’t address skin laxity but is ideal for reducing fat and reshaping the arm
- Procedure Details: In arm liposuction, small incisions are made in the arms, through which a thin tube, or cannula, is inserted. Anca then uses this cannula to break up and suction out excess fat. This procedure can sculpt the arms, making them appear slimmer and more defined
- Ideal Candidates: Ideal candidates for arm liposuction are those who have good skin elasticity and are looking to remove excess fat from their arms. It’s best suited for individuals who are close to their ideal body weight but have stubborn fat deposits in their arms that don’t respond to diet and exercise
Download Anca Breahna’s Liposuction Guide
Choose the Right Upper Arm Treatment
When you’re looking to improve the appearance of your upper arms, choosing the right treatment is key. You might be considering an arm lift, arm liposuction, or even a combination of both. Let’s compare these options to help you understand which might be the best fit for your needs.
- Arm Lift: This procedure is best if you have a lot of loose, sagging skin on your arms. It’s about tightening and reshaping the arm by removing excess skin. If your main concern is the skin that hangs or droops, especially after significant weight loss or due to ageing, an arm lift could be the right choice
- Arm Liposuction: If you have excess fat in your arms but your skin elasticity is still good, arm liposuction might be the better option. This procedure focuses on removing fat, not skin. It’s ideal if you’re relatively close to your ideal body weight but have stubborn fat in your arms that doesn’t go away with diet and exercise
Combined Approach
In some cases, you might benefit from a combination of both procedures. This is often considered when there’s a significant amount of excess fat and also a considerable amount of loose skin. The combined approach allows for fat removal through liposuction and the removal of excess skin through an arm lift, offering a more comprehensive transformation.
Deciding on the right upper arm treatment, whether it’s an arm lift, liposuction, or a combination of both, involves careful consideration.
Factors to Consider when Choosing Between Arm Lipo and Arm Lift
Here are some factors you should think about and the importance of the consultation process with your plastic surgeon:
- Lifestyle: Your daily routine and activities play a significant role in this decision. If you’re very active and concerned about recovery time, this might influence your choice of procedure. Also, consider how each procedure aligns with your long-term lifestyle goals
- Desired Outcomes: Be clear about what you want to achieve with the treatment. If your goal is to remove excess skin for a tighter look, an arm lift might be suitable. If reducing fat is your main aim, consider liposuction. For comprehensive changes, a combined approach could be the answer
- Health Conditions: Your overall health is crucial. Certain health conditions might affect your eligibility for surgery or your ability to heal properly. Be honest about your medical history during your consultation
FAQs about Arm Procedures
What is the main difference between an arm lift and arm liposuction?
- An arm lift, or brachioplasty, primarily addresses sagging and excess skin in the upper arms, often resulting in a more toned and contoured appearance. Arm liposuction, on the other hand, focuses on removing excess fat from the arms, ideal for those with good skin elasticity who want to reduce fat and improve arm shape.
How long is the recovery period for an arm lift and arm liposuction?
- Recovery times can vary. For an arm lift, it typically takes about 2 to 4 weeks to return to normal activities, with full recovery taking up to several months. For arm liposuction, the recovery is generally quicker, with most people resuming normal activities within a few days to a week. However, full recovery and final results might take a few weeks to become apparent.
Are the results of these procedures permanent?
- The results of both an arm lift and arm liposuction can be long-lasting, especially if you maintain a stable weight and follow a healthy lifestyle. However, it’s important to remember that natural ageing and gravity will continue to affect your skin and body shape over time.
What are the risks associated with arm lift and arm liposuction surgeries?
- As with any surgery, there are risks involved. Common risks include infection, scarring, swelling, and changes in skin sensation. Specific risks for an arm lift include asymmetry and more noticeable scarring, while liposuction carries risks like uneven contours or fluid accumulation. Anca will discuss all potential risks with you during the consultation.
Can arm lift and arm liposuction be done at the same time?
- Yes, in some cases, combining both procedures can be beneficial, especially if you have both excess fat and significant skin laxity. Your surgeon will assess your individual situation and advise whether a combined approach is suitable for you. Combining procedures can often lead to more comprehensive results and may reduce overall recovery time compared to having two separate surgeries.
Further Reading about Body Procedures with Consultant Plastic Surgeon Anca Breahna
- Read more about: Best Compression Garments after Tummy Tuck Surgery
- Read more about: Internal Bra – A More Durable Breast Uplift Technique
- Read more about: Waterfall Breast Deformity after Breast Implant Surgery
- Read more about: Liposuction vs Tummy Tuck
- Read more about: What Is Drop and Fluff Process after Breast Implants
Medical References about Arm Procedures
- Brachioplasty (Arm Lift) – Cleveland Clinic
- What You Need to Know About Arm Lifts – American Society of Plastic Surgeons
- Arm Contouring After Massive Weight Loss – NCBI
- Brachioplasty – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
- Brachioplasty: A Personal Approach– Oxford Academic
Ms Anca Breahna, PhD, MSc, FEBOPRAS, FRCS (Plast) is a highly regarded Consultant Plastic Surgeon specialising in the field of Aesthetic and Reconstructive Plastic Surgery. Anca performs a range of 
