Trying to decide between an arm lift and liposuction can feel overwhelming, and each procedure has its own unique benefits. Age, genetics, and weight changes can all leave your upper arms loose and sagging, and it’s vital to understand which procedure will meet your specific needs.
At Wellesley Plastic Surgery, Dr. Arthur Shektman has the skill and experience to help you choose between an arm lift and liposuction. Read on to discover how each procedure works, their key differences, and how Dr. Shektman can offer you the information and expertise you need to make an informed decision.
What Causes Loose or Flabby Arms?
Drooping, loose skin and tissue under the upper arms is a common body change due to lost skin elasticity from aging and after weight loss. Flabby upper arms can take on a batwing-like appearance and hang down when you raise your arms to wave goodbye or reach for something.
What Is an Arm Lift (Brachioplasty)?
An arm lift, or brachioplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes fat and tightens sagging skin on the upper arms.
To perform an arm lift, Dr. Shektman uses incisions on the underside of the upper arm to remove excess tissue and smooth the skin. Incisions are closed using stitches or internal sutures, which will be absorbed into your body as the wound heals.
What Is Arm Liposuction?
Arm liposuction removes pockets of fat that haven’t responded well to exercise and dieting. During upper-arm liposuction, Dr. Shektman makes small incisions and inserts a thin tube (cannula) to loosen fatty tissue and extract it.
Key Differences Between an Arm Lift and Liposuction in Boston
Both brachioplasty and liposuction can redefine upper arm contour for a leaner appearance, but they also have key differences, including:
- Cause of Sagging: Arm lifts address loose hanging skin, whereas liposuction targets excess fat deposits.
- Surgical Invasiveness: Liposuction involves fewer and smaller incisions than brachioplasty.
- Type of Anesthesia: General anesthesia is typically required for arm lift surgery, but upper arm liposuction can be performed under local anesthesia or light sedation.
- Recovery time: The time needed for recovery is longer for arm lifts compared to liposuction.
- Risk of Scars: Since arm lifts require more extensive incisions, this surgery may cause more noticeable scars than liposuction.
During your consultation, Dr. Shektman will examine your upper arms carefully and discuss the best approach to achieve the results you’re looking for.
Who Is a Good Candidate for an Arm Lift?
You may be a good arm lift candidate if you:
- Have loose, excess skin in your upper arms
- Are at a stable weight
- Don’t have medical conditions that add risk of surgical complications
- Do not smoke or can quit smoking before surgery
Who Is a Good Candidate for Arm Liposuction?
You may be a good arm liposuction candidate if you:
- Want a more contoured arm appearance
- Are within your current target body weight
- Have committed to maintaining a healthy lifestyle with exercise and a nutritious diet
- Desire support in your fitness goals
Recovery Time: Arm Lift vs. Liposuction
Recovery time for an arm lift and liposuction can look similar, but in general, arm lift recovery takes longer.
After an arm lift, most patients take about a week off work to recover. You will need to avoid exercise, heavy lifting, or stress on your upper arms for at least four weeks, and Dr. Shektman will assess you after six weeks and let you know if you can resume all normal activities.
Liposuction recovery varies, but most patients can return to work after five to eight days. Full recovery typically takes six weeks. Dr. Shektman will advise you as to when you can resume your normal physical activities after either procedure.
Risks and Considerations
Any surgery or cosmetic procedure comes with risks, including infection, scarring, anesthesia complications, and damage to nerves or blood vessels. However, your risk lowers dramatically when surgery is performed by a skilled and experienced surgeon like Dr. Shektman, who minimizes risk through precision and personalized care.
Which Procedure Will Give You the Best Results?
An arm lift and liposuction can each offer improved contours to your upper arm, but their results depend on a few factors. If excess skin is your main concern, an arm lift may give you the best results. However, if stubborn fat deposits are causing sagging upper arms, liposuction might be the better choice. To determine which procedure will benefit you most, schedule your consultation with Dr. Shektman.
Schedule Your Consultation with Dr. Arthur Shektman Today!
You don’t need to decide on your own: Dr. Arthur Shektman meets with each of his patients to discuss their concerns and aesthetic goals. As one of Massachusetts’ best board-certified plastic surgeons, he provides a customized treatment plan for each patient, ensuring exceptional care and satisfaction. Please call (781) 239-0680 or complete our online form to arrange your consultation today.