How Brachioplasty Can Tone and Sculpt Your Arms

Hold your arm up and give an enthusiastic wave to your neighbor. Does that thought make you want to cringe? When we age or lose a significant amount of weight, our upper arms can sag with excess fat. If you have arms with what are lovingly referred to as “bat wings,” just waving to your neighbor can make you want to hide under extra layers of clothing. Dr. Jane Rowley is the leading board-certified surgeon in Lubbock with the training and expertise to tone and sculpt your arms. After an arm lift (also known as a brachioplasty), Lubbock patients may find themselves waving to both friends and strangers just to show off their new arms.  

What an Arm Lift Does

Brachio means arm, and plasty means to mold or to form. An arm lift removes both fat and extra skin on the underside of the upper arm area. While it may seem simple just to remove fat, this procedure requires the artistic touch of a skilled and experienced surgeon like Dr. Rowley. An arm lift includes a careful sculpting of the arm to ensure the taper in size from shoulder to wrist looks smooth and natural. An improved contour of the arms can boost confidence and give you the freedom to wear what you want without worrying about arm flab.

The Ideal Arm Lift Candidate

Building muscle in our triceps and biceps is fairly straightforward, but getting the lean, toned look to go with it is another story. The effects of gravity become more apparent with age, and the upper arms are known for revealing unwanted saggy skin. Lifting weights and doing push ups are great strength exercises, but they won’t get rid of any excess skin. Brachioplasty will remove the sagging skin to create a more flattering shape for your arms. If you have excess skin and fatty tissue on your upper arms that do not change with exercise, you could be a good candidate for arm lift plastic surgery. 

Some patients have noticeable sagging skin on their arms after losing weight. Without the fat to fill it out, the arm skin loses elasticity and is left to hang. The unsightly flab is enough to put a damper on the triumph you feel when you reach your weight loss goals. Whatever your reasons are for wanting to trim your upper arms, keep in mind that the ideal arm lift candidate will need to meet the following criteria:

  • You are at a healthy, stable weight
  • You are in overall good health with no medical conditions that would increase surgical risks 
  • You do not use nicotine, or you can stop for an extended period of time
  • You have realistic expectations about what the procedure can achieve
  • You do not have excessive fat in your upper arms

It is important to understand that just like most types of plastic surgery, an arm lift cannot be done without leaving a scar. If you have only a minimal amount of sagging skin, brachioplasty may not be the best option for you. Patients with more extensive amounts of excess skin tend to be the best candidates for the surgery. Talk to your doctor about what you hope to achieve with the procedure.

Preparing for Brachioplasty

During your arm lift consultation, be prepared to go over your medical history and any drugs or supplements you may be taking. Your doctor will examine your arms and determine whether the excess skin and fat is significant enough to warrant the procedure. You will need to clearly communicate your hopes and expectations for the surgical results. Don’t be afraid to ask questions; this is your chance to get a thorough understanding of the procedure and how it can personally benefit you. If you smoke, it is important that you plan to stop for several weeks before and after your surgery. Additionally, do not take aspirin or other anti-inflammatory drugs as they may put you at greater risk for bleeding.

Should You Add Liposuction? 

Liposuction itself does not get rid of any excess skin; it removes fat to trim and shape the arm. Because removing fat often leaves an excess of skin, pairing liposuction with brachioplasty may be necessary for more dramatic results. For patients who only need a minimal reduction in size and whose skin is firm and elastic, liposuction alone may be sufficient. Consult with your plastic surgeon about the best combination of procedures for you. 

What Happens During Surgery?

Brachioplasty is an outpatient procedure performed by your plastic surgeon with the use of general anesthesia. An arm lift typically takes about one hour to complete. During surgery, the surgeon will make an incision that runs between the elbow and the armpit area on the back of each arm. Next, loose skin and fat is removed to create a sculpted appearance for the upper arms. Dr. Rowley does not place drains in her arm lift patients, and she uses absorbable sutures. Watch the video below to hear more from Dr. Rowley about the arm lift procedure.

Recovery After Your Arm Lift 

After plastic surgery, Lubbock patients should plan to have someone drive them home from their operation and stay with them for at least the first 24 hours. You need to have someone with you as you start your recovery and work through the side effects of anesthetics. Pain and discomfort after brachioplasty are typically limited to some mild to moderate soreness, bruising, and swelling. These symptoms should resolve within several days, but in the meantime, you may use the prescription pain medication your doctor prescribes. Your surgeon will ask that you try to keep your arms elevated and as straight as possible. You will be fitted for compression garments for your arms as well. It is important to rest and follow your surgeon’s instructions carefully for a successful recovery.

One of the more challenging parts of your recovery may be the restrictions on lifting anything heavy or raising your arms above shoulder level for three to four weeks. You might have to get used to asking for help, especially with tasks such as washing your hair or caring for small children. 

It is best to wait for your surgeon’s approval before jumping back into your exercise routine. You may be able to go on walks or do some light cardio before resuming strength training. Try to resist the temptation to push yourself too hard when you get back to the gym; if a certain type of movement hurts, don’t do it! Once you do start building muscle in your arms again, the tone and definition will be much more noticeable without the excess skin and fat.

What About Scars? 

Brachioplasty leaves visible scars on the arms. The length of the incision depends on how much skin and fat needs to be removed, so scars will look different on each individual patient. If you are considering an arm lift, chances are you have already thought about the end result and you would be happy to trade in your drooping arms for a couple of scars. 

Scars may appear red or bumpy for the first part of your recovery, but the good news is they will smooth out and fade in color as time passes. Still, it can be challenging to get used to seeing scars on your arms, even if they are only visible from the back. If this is a concern for you, consider some of the things you can do to minimize the appearance of arm lift scars. 

  • Choose a well-qualified plastic surgeon. You can increase your chances of getting the best results from plastic surgery before you ever enter the operating room. By selecting a surgeon with the right qualifications and experience, you will minimize your risk of complications, including ending up with unsightly scars. Board certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery is a must when it comes to choosing a doctor. This certification is only given to surgeons who have proven to be skilled experts in their field. An experienced board-certified plastic surgeon will be able to make precise incisions in the correct locations to minimize the appearance of scars. For more information on why you should choose a board-certified surgeon, watch the video below.
  • Follow all post-operative instructions. You may feel like you’ve been given a lot of information regarding your recovery period. Your doctor will advise you as to which activities to avoid, when to take certain prescriptions, and even when you are allowed to shower after surgery. For proper wound healing and scar minimization, it is essential to follow all of these instructions precisely. Changing your bandages, keeping the surgical area clean, and watching for signs of infection are important steps to take after brachioplasty. And remember, never hesitate to contact your surgeon’s office for any questions or concerns.  
  • Take care of yourself. It may seem simple, but self-care after plastic surgery is one of the best ways to heal scars. Arm lift patients should avoid things like sun exposure and nicotine use. Keep your skin hydrated by drinking plenty of water each day. Getting enough rest and fueling your body with nutrient rich foods are also important for proper wound healing. Taking good care of yourself also means being patient with your body as it recovers. Scars can take months to fade, so try to focus on enjoying your new and improved arm size instead.
  • Take care of your scar. If you can’t stay out of the sun, be sure to use plenty of sunscreen on your arms to protect the scars. It is also important to avoid causing tension or pulling on the incision area, as this can stretch the scar. Over the counter products such as silicone sheeting or silicone-based creams may promote scar healing. 

Getting Back into Your Life  

Your recovery period will range from one to several weeks depending on how extensive your procedure is. Each patient will have a unique experience with recovery from brachioplasty. Some people experience discomfort, bruising, or swelling. Plan to take at least a week off work or other obligations to allow time for your body to heal. Expect to be back to your normal activities in three to four weeks. You can start an exercise routine about six weeks after your surgery, but the complete resolution of swelling can take up to eight weeks.  

Rejuvenating Results 

Other plastic surgery procedures may get more attention, but brachioplasty is one that can also make a vast difference on the right patient. Sagging underarm skin is a common problem, especially among women. If you have lost a significant amount of weight or have noticed more skin sagging with age, an arm lift may be the right way to achieve your cosmetic goals. 

The results of your arm lift are visible immediately, and after surgery the scarring will fade significantly over time. On the right patient, an arm lift can make a dramatic difference in appearance and give the arms a new youthful look. Activities like waving, clapping, and exercising will be more enjoyable. Shopping for clothes will be more fun as you find that you won’t have to hunt for sizes that fit your arms. Hiding your arms in long sleeves or baggy clothing will be a thing of the past. And best of all, you will feel a greater sense of self-confidence because you will no longer be preoccupied with the worry over your arms appearance.

Say “Goodbye” to Arm Flab

Selecting an expert, board-certified plastic surgeon is one of the most important factors to impact the success of your brachioplasty. Lubbock patients who choose Dr. Jane Rowley benefit from her decades of experience and her surgical expertise. Dr. Rowley will discuss options and procedures thoroughly with you. With her decades of experience, aesthetic talent, and candid communication, Dr. Rowley is the surgeon you can trust with your cosmetic goals.  If you’re ready to wave “goodbye” to the sag and jiggle of today and “hello” to the toned, lean, and sculpted arms of tomorrow, call our office to schedule your personal, no-obligation consultation. 

Get Rid of Flabby Arms With an Arm Lift in Lubbock

Americans seem to be increasingly interested in looking younger and more beautiful all the time. Popular diets, fitness trends, and plastic surgery play a huge role in what we see on social media as well as everyday lifestyles. In Lubbock, you can also see a growing emphasis on losing weight and being healthy. This has led to a greater number of patients seeking an arm lift in Lubbock. 

The extreme at the other end of the spectrum is the growing rate of obesity in America. When weight gain gets out of control and is beyond the aid of diet and exercise, some people turn to more drastic measures for help. When weight has been high and is then quickly lost, the body ends up with stretched out loose skin. But weight loss isn’t the only culprit behind saggy skin. Excess skin can become loose as a result of age or heredity. An arm lift in Lubbock—or brachioplasty—can have a dramatic effect on the right patient to tone and reshape the upper arms. 

Why Consider an Arm Lift in Lubbock

An arm lift is an effective plastic surgery procedure for many types of patients. It enhances contour and gets rid of excess skin to give the arms a younger, more toned appearance. According to the most recent statistics published by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the number of patients having brachioplasty has risen over 5,000 percent since 2000. So, what is it that makes the procedure so increasingly popular? 

Enhances drastic weight loss

When you finally reach your weight loss goal, the last thing you want to see is saggy skin where the fat used to be. Whether you have bariatric surgery or lost weight the old fashioned way, stretched skin is a common problem. Some patients feel discouraged or even doubt whether the weight loss even improved their appearance at all. An arm lift will eliminate the problematic skin to give patients the complete look they desire. Drastic weight loss is something to celebrate, and an arm lift in Lubbock offers a way to tie up the loose ends so you can truly enjoy your makeover.

Improves Proportioning

As they age, many women start to store fat in different areas of their bodies. The upper arms can sometimes look much larger than the forearms when excess fat builds up. With an arm lift, your plastic surgeon can remove the excess skin and fat to slim down the upper arm. The procedure gives patients improved proportioning in the arms, makes clothing appear more flattering, and creates a balanced look for the entire body. 

Reveals Workout Results

It is hard to feel motivated to do arm strength exercises when your muscles are hidden under excess fat and skin. With the extra bulk out of the way, your arm workouts will look and feel much more productive. Additionally, lifting weights and doing exercises like pushups will be easier without the extra padding around the upper arms. An arm lift helps to sculpt the arms and also makes workout results more visible. 

Boosts Confidence

Women who deal with large or saggy upper arms often feel insecure about their appearance. Even waving “hello” or clapping their hands can trigger feelings of self-consciousness. Instead of avoiding friendly waves or hiding their arms in loose blouses, brachioplasty patients can enjoy using their arms freely without worrying about flab showing. The results of an arm lift in Lubbock can spark a boost of confidence that radiates into almost every area of a patient’s life. When you feel good about your appearance, it allows you to let go of insecurities and focus on the things you really care about.

Are You a Good Candidate?

Do you avoid wearing arm revealing clothing because you don’t like the way your upper arms look? Do you refuse to wave your arms because you’re self-conscious of the skin that hangs down? If the answer is yes, brachioplasty could be of great benefit to you. If you meet the criteria below, you may be a good candidate for the procedure. 

  • You have excess arm skin due to significant weight loss or aging
  • You do not smoke or are willing to commit to a nicotine-free lifestyle before and after surgery
  • You are committed to a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise and a well-balanced diet
  • Your general health is good, and you have no medical conditions that would increase risks
  • Your weight is relatively stable and in a healthy range

Brachioplasty does leave a scar running down the underside of the arm, which will be visible when the arms are lifted or exposed. A good candidate for the procedure will have a significant amount of extra skin hanging down. Your surgeon will be able to tell you if your arms would benefit from an arm lift in Lubbock. It is important to remember that any plastic surgery is not a substitute for a healthy diet or routine exercise. Instead it provides a supplement to achieve your desired body shape when you already maintain a healthy lifestyle.

What Happens During Surgery?

On the day of your surgery, you will be administered general anesthesia to keep you comfortable. Your surgeon will remove excess fat and skin from the underside of your arms through an incision that runs between the elbow and the underarm. The length of the resulting scar will depend on how much skin and fat had to be removed. 

Often the process of tightening the arm skin is paired with liposuction to remove fat deposits in the same area. Consult with your doctor to decide if adding liposuction to your arm lift will help you achieve your desired results. There are no drains for brachioplasty patients and the sutures are absorbable. To learn more about what to expect from an arm lift in Lubbock, watch the video below:

The Results

For the best possible results, you will want the best plastic surgeon. Lubbock patients should seek for a doctor who is highly skilled, board-certified, and has plenty of experience. After an arm lift, your arms will look smoother and more toned. The results will be evident immediately following your procedure, but may take 6-8 weeks to be completely visible. Some patients express concern about the extent of scarring from an arm lift. The placement of the incision, the skill of your doctor, and the neatness of the closure will all have an effect on the appearance of scarring. The changes in your arms may seem subtle on their own, but your body will look more youthful and slender overall after your brachioplasty procedure.

Minimizing the Appearance of Scars

It is important to realize that, just like with any plastic surgery, an arm lift leaves a scar. For most brachioplasty patients, the benefits of the procedure far outweigh any concerns about scarring. First of all, scars are much easier to conceal than overly large, saggy upper arms. Secondly, plastic surgery scars fade with time and proper care. The length of the surgical incision varies depending on how much skin your plastic surgeon removes. For patients with greater amounts of excess skin, the incision will need to be longer. However, if you are a good candidate, a scar should not deter you from having an arm lift in Lubbock. Your plastic surgeon can evaluate your arms to determine whether the procedure will help you reach your cosmetic goals. Consider the following ways to minimize the appearance of scars:

  • Follow all post-operative instructions: Choosing a highly-skilled and experienced plastic surgeon benefits you the most if you follow all of their instructions. For example, if your doctor’s orders include a ban on showering for a few days, then it’s in your best interest to follow those directions. Strictly adhering to their advice will help you avoid infection and other complications. And, it will give your incisions the best chance to heal properly so you end up with minimal scarring. 
  • Stay out of the sun: It can be tempting to show off your new arms in a tank top and spend some time in the sun after brachioplasty. But, it is more important than ever to keep your arms (or at least the incision sites) out of the sun as your body recovers. UV rays are very damaging to newly formed skin and scar tissue. As nice as that sunshine feels, it can cause arm lift scars to appear darker than the rest of your skin. If you must be outside, wear sunscreen or cover your scars with medical tape to protect them from the sun.
  • Learn about scar healing products: There are many products on the market that claim to help promote scar healing. Creams, lotions, gels, and other treatments can minimize the appearance of plastic surgery scars in some cases. Drugstores also sell silicone sheeting strips as an alternative method for scar healing. Your doctor can recommend certain options if you are interested in trying products to help minimize your scars after your arm lift in Lubbock.

Scarring is an unavoidable part of plastic surgery. The question you have to ask yourself is, would you rather live with a thin scar or sagging upper arms? A well-qualified plastic surgeon will keep your incisions as short as possible and make sure they are in the least conspicuous place. This way, scars are only visible when the arms are raised. For most patients, the boost in confidence, enhanced appearance, and improved body proportions more than make up for the scarring that comes with an arm lift in Lubbock.       

Recovering From an Arm Lift in Lubbock

Arm lifts typically take less time in the operating room than more extensive surgeries like breast augmentation. The procedure takes about one hour on an outpatient basis. Patients usually have compression bandages on for about two weeks to help minimize swelling. Some discomfort, swelling, and bruising are common during the early stages of recovery. Your doctor will prescribe pain medication to keep you comfortable. Most people can expect to resume regular activities in about five to seven days. However, you should not participate in any strenuous activity or heavy lifting until your incision site is completely healed. 

Brachioplasty FAQs

Learning everything you can about your plastic surgery procedure is key to getting the most out of your experience. Well-informed patients enjoy feeling more calm and confident about their surgery because they know what to expect at every stage. To help jumpstart your research, here are some answers to questions that are commonly asked about brachioplasty:

  • Is an arm lift painful? During the procedure itself, patients do not feel any pain at all because of the effects of anesthesia. Some mild pain and discomfort is not uncommon during the first few days of recovery, but they can be managed easily with prescribed pain killers.
  • Will liposuction alone work for my arms? Liposuction gets rid of stubborn fat, but it does not eliminate the excess skin that hangs from the upper arms. The two procedures work well together to sculpt the arms and reduce their size. In fact, a study published in Plastic Reconstructive Surgery revealed significantly enhanced cosmetic results and an improvement in the quality of life for brachioplasty patients who also had underarm liposuction. 
  • How much skin is removed? The amount of skin excised depends on how much excess skin the patient has. If your plastic surgeon removes too much, it can cause the skin to be overly tight and can even separate the incision.  
  • Can brachioplasty be combined with other procedures? For most patients, an arm lift works well when done in conjunction with other plastic surgery procedures. If your arms sag due to age or weight loss, it is likely there are other areas of your body that may also have lost their youthfulness.  

Discover Greater Confidence

If age or weight loss has not been kind to your arms, you don’t have to live in long sleeves forever. When considering an arm lift in Lubbock, be sure to do your research so you can find the best plastic surgeon. Lubbock is home to Dr. Jane Rowley, a board-certified plastic surgeon who carefully listens to the concerns and expectations of her patients. At Rowley Plastic Surgery, our goal is to educate and work with each patient so they can have the best results possible. Call our office to schedule a no-obligation consultation and discuss your options in discovering greater confidence in your physical appearance.

From Flab to Fab: What Arm Lift Plastic Surgery in Lubbock Can Do for You

The appearance of your upper arms is probably something you never imagined you would care much about. Maturing in age has its benefits but it also comes with some drawbacks, and worsening arm flab can be one of them. The upper arms can also be a source of frustration for people who have lost a significant amount of weight. Reaching your weight loss goal is supposed to be something to celebrate, but it can be hard to feel like you’ve achieved the look you want when you still see “bat wings” in the mirror. Whether you dislike your arms because they’ve started to sag with age or they didn’t bounce back after your weight loss, brachioplasty, or arm lift plastic surgery in Lubbock, is a convenient way to get rid of that flabby look. You don’t have to hide your arms by wearing long sleeve shirts year-round anymore. For the right candidate, an arm lift can turn the arms from flabby to fabulous. 

What Does an Arm Lift Do?

If you are doing your research about brachioplasty, you have probably lived with sagging arms long enough to know that diet and exercise do not solve the problem. No amount of pushups, arm circles, or weight lifting will get rid of the excess fat and skin that hangs off the arms. With Lubbock plastic surgery, your arms can finally have the shape you desire. Not all arm lifts are exactly the same since patients have varying degrees of tissue that needs to be removed. In general, you can expect your plastic surgeon to create a better contour of your arms from the elbow to the armpit. The goal is to give you slimmer arms that appear more toned and are better aligned with the proportions of the rest of your body. 

What Does Arm Lift Surgery Involve?   

An arm lift is a fairly straightforward plastic surgery in Lubbock. The operation takes about one hour under general anesthesia in outpatient surgery. Your doctor will make an incision either on the inside of your upper arm or on the backside, and then remove the excess skin and fat.  Internal sutures may be used to tighten and reshape the underlying tissue. Dr. Jane Rowley does not place drains, and the sutures are absorbed by the body. Although liposuction alone cannot eliminate hanging arm skin, some patients opt to add liposuction to their brachioplasty procedure to target specific fat deposits on their arms. Talk to your doctor to determine whether combining liposuction with your arm lift will give you the best results.  

Brachioplasty patients are sent home from surgery with compression wraps that should be worn for up to 2 weeks. Your arms will be noticeably slimmer right after your operation, but you should be able to see the full results within 6 to 8 weeks, after any swelling and bruising has subsided. If you can maintain a stable, healthy weight, your Lubbock plastic surgery outcome can last a very long time. 

Is Brachioplasty Worth It?

One of the most important considerations for brachioplasty patients is whether they are comfortable with scarring on their arms. Just about every type of Lubbock plastic surgery will leave a scar, but arm lift scars tend to be longer and more noticeable than with other procedures. The way your scars will look depend on the location and amount of sin and fat that is removed. Brachioplasty scars are not as easily hidden as the ones you might get from breast augmentation or a tummy tuck, but many patients feel the benefits of arm lift plastic surgery in Lubbock far outweigh the costs. A board-certified plastic surgeon with brachioplasty experience can help you decide if the procedure is right for you.  

Dr. Jane Rowley has been performing brachioplasty for over 20 years. She is always honest and candid in her consultations with patients, and will only recommend the procedure for those who will see the best results. She says:

“Patients really need to have a significant amount of excess skin to be happy with the results after this operation. There is a fairly significant scar that can be noticeable in clothing, but on the right patient, the results can be dramatic.”

When you are trying to make a decision about Lubbock plastic surgery for your arms, it can also be helpful to talk to other patients or read online reviews. 92 percent of RealSelf brachioplasty patients say the procedure is “worth it.” One reviewer said:

“My verdict on the arm-lift is that it is very much worth the cost. I feel much more confident now that my wings are gone and while the scars are a pretty big trade-off, in the end I would still opt to have the surgery as opposed to spending forever with big, flappy arms.”

Arm Lift Plastic Surgery in Lubbock With Dr. Rowley

You don’t have to live with embarrassment or insecurity about your appearance. If you are tired of hiding your arms because of excessive hanging skin or fat, an arm lift could give you back the confidence you deserve. Dr. Jane Rowley is the most experienced plastic surgeon in Lubbock, and she can tell you whether an arm lift is the best way for you to achieve your aesthetic goals. To learn about your plastic surgery options, schedule your no-obligation consultation with Rowley Plastic Surgery today. 

Wave Goodbye to Arm Flab with Brachioplasty

Hold your arm up and give an enthusiastic wave to your neighbor. Does that thought make you want to cringe? When we age or lose a significant amount of weight, our upper arms can sag with excess fat. If you have arms with what are lovingly referred to as “bat wings,” just waving to your neighbor can make you want to hide under extra layers of clothing. Dr. Jane Rowley is the leading board-certified surgeon in Lubbock with the training and expertise to tone and sculpt your arms. After arm lift plastic surgery, Lubbock patients may find themselves waving to both friends and strangers just to show off their new arms.  

What Brachioplasty Does

Brachio means arm, and plasty means to mold or to form. An arm lift removes both fat and extra skin on the underside of the upper arm area.  While it may seem simple just to remove fat, this procedure requires the artistic touch of a skilled and experienced surgeon. Brachioplasty includes a careful sculpting of the arm to ensure the taper in size from shoulder to wrist looks smooth and natural. An improved contour of the arms can boost confidence and give you the freedom to wear what you want without worrying about arm flab.

The Ideal Arm Lift Candidate

If you have excess skin and fatty tissue on your upper arms that do not change with exercise, you could be a good candidate for arm lift plastic surgery. Lubbock men and women interested in the procedure should also meet the following criteria:

  • You are at a healthy, stable weight
  • You are in overall good health with no medical conditions that would increase surgical risks
  • You do not use nicotine, or you can stop for an extended period of time
  • You have realistic expectations about the procedure   

Preparing for Brachioplasty

During your arm lift consultation, be prepared to go over your medical history and any drugs or supplements you may be taking. Your doctor will examine your arms and determine whether the excess skin and fat is significant enough to warrant the procedure. You will need to clearly communicate your hopes and expectations for the surgical results. Don’t be afraid to ask questions; this is your chance to get a thorough understanding of the procedure and how it can personally benefit you. If you smoke, it is important that you plan to stop for several weeks before and after your surgery.

Should You Add Liposuction?

Liposuction itself does not get rid of any excess skin; it removes fat to trim and shape the arm. Because removing fat often leaves an excess of skin, pairing liposuction with brachioplasty may be necessary for more dramatic results. For patients who only need a minimal reduction in size, liposuction alone may be sufficient. Consult with your plastic surgeon about the best combination of procedures for you.

Recovery After Your Arm Lift

After plastic surgery, Lubbock patients should plan to have someone drive them home from their operation and stay with them for at least the first 24 hours. You need to have someone with you as you start your recovery and work through the side effects of anesthetics. Your surgeon will ask that you try to keep your arms elevated and as straight as possible. You will be fitted for compression garments for your arms as well. It is important to rest and follow your surgeon’s instructions carefully for a successful recovery.

Getting Back into Your Life

Your recovery period will range from one to several weeks depending on how extensive your procedure is. Each patient will have a unique experience with recovery from brachioplasty. Some people experience discomfort, bruising, or swelling. Plan to take at least a week off work or other obligations to allow time for your body to heal. Expect to be back to your normal activities in 3 to 4 weeks. You can start an exercise routine about 6 weeks after your surgery, but complete resolution of swelling can take up to 8 weeks.  

Rejuvenating Results

The results of your arm lift are visible immediately, and after surgery the scarring will fade significantly over time. On the right patient, an arm lift can make a dramatic difference in appearance and give the arms a new youthful look. Shopping for clothes will be more enjoyable as you find that you no longer have to hunt for sizes that fit your arms.

Selecting an expert, board-certified plastic surgeon is one of the most important factors to impact the success of your plastic surgery. Lubbock patients who choose Dr. Jane Rowley benefit from her decades of experience and her surgical expertise. Dr. Rowley will discuss options and procedures thoroughly with you. If you’re ready to wave “goodbye” to the sag and jiggle of today and “hello” to the toned, lean, and sculpted arms of tomorrow, call our office to schedule your personal, no-obligation consultation.

Tone Up Your Arms With an Arm Lift in Lubbock

Americans seem to be increasingly interested in looking younger and more beautiful all the time. Popular diets, fitness trends, and plastic surgery play a huge role in what we see on social media as well as everyday lifestyles. In Lubbock, you can also see a growing emphasis on losing weight and being healthy.

The extreme at the other end of the spectrum is the growing rate of obesity in America. When weight gain gets out of control and is beyond the aid of diet and exercise, some people turn to more drastic measures for help. When weight has been high and is then quickly lost, the body ends up with stretched out loose skin. But weight loss isn’t the only culprit behind saggy skin. Excess skin can become loose as a result of age or heredity. An arm lift in Lubbock—or brachioplasty—can have a dramatic effect on the right patient to tone and reshape the upper arms.

Are You a Good Candidate?

Do you avoid wearing arm revealing clothing because you don’t like the way your upper arms look? Do you refuse to wave your arms because you’re self-conscious of the skin that hangs down? If the answer is yes, brachioplasty could be of great benefit to you. If you meet the criteria below, you may be a good candidate for the procedure.

  • You have excess arm skin due to significant weight loss or aging
  • You do not smoke or are willing to commit to a nicotine-free lifestyle before and after surgery
  • You are committed to a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise and a well-balanced diet
  • Your general health is good, and you have no medical conditions that would increase risks
  • Your weight is relatively stable and in a healthy range

Brachioplasty does leave a scar running down the underside of the arm which will be visible when the arms are lifted or exposed. A good candidate for the procedure will have a significant amount of extra skin hanging down. Your surgeon will be able to tell you if your arms would benefit from an arm lift in Lubbock. It is important to remember that any plastic surgery is not a substitute for a healthy diet or routine exercise. Instead it provides a supplement to achieve your desired body shape when  you already maintain a healthy lifestyle.

What Happens During Surgery?

On the day of your surgery, you will be administered general anesthesia to keep you comfortable. Your surgeon will remove excess fat and skin from the underside of your arms through an incision that runs from the elbow to the underarm. The length of the resulting scar will depend on how much skin and fat had to be removed.

Often the process of tightening the arm skin is paired with liposuction to remove fat deposits in the same area. Consult with your doctor to decide if adding liposuction to your arm lift will help you achieve your desired results. There are no drains for brachioplasty patients and the sutures are absorbable.

The Results

For the best possible results, you will want the best plastic surgeon. Lubbock patients should seek for a doctor who is highly skilled, board-certified, and has plenty of experience. After an arm lift, your arms will look smoother and more toned. The results will be evident immediately following your procedure, but may take 6-8 weeks to be completely visible. Some patients express concern about the extent of scarring from an arm lift. The placement of the incision, the skill of your doctor, and the neatness of the closure will all have an effect on the appearance of scarring.  The changes in your arms may seem subtle on their own, but your body will look more youthful and slender overall after your brachioplasty procedure.

Recovering From an Arm Lift in Lubbock

Arm lifts typically take less time in the operating room than more extensive surgeries like breast augmentation. The procedure takes about one hour on an outpatient basis. Patients usually have compression bandages on for about two weeks to help minimize swelling. Most people can expect to resume regular activities in about five to seven days.

Discover Greater Confidence

If age or weight loss has not been kind to your arms, you don’t have to live in long sleeves forever. When considering an arm lift in Lubbock, be sure to do your research so you can find the best plastic surgeon. Lubbock is home to Dr. Jane Rowley, a board-certified plastic surgeon who carefully listens to the concerns and expectations of her patients. At Rowley Plastic Surgery, our goal is to educate and work with each patient so they can have the best results possible. Call our office to schedule a no-obligation consultation and discuss your options in discovering greater confidence in your physical appearance.

How Plastic Surgery can Thin the Arms

Hold your arm up and give an enthusiastic wave to your neighbor. Does that thought make you want to cringe? Saggy skin on your upper arms can be part of your genetics or a result of significant weight loss. When you have arms with what are commonly called “bat wings”, just waving to your neighbor can make you want to run and hide under a few more layers of clothing. Dr. Jane Rowley, the leading board-certified surgeon here in Lubbock has the skills, expertise, and bedside manner to which you can look to tone and sculpt your arms. After she thins and tightens and tucks, you may find yourself waving to both friends and strangers just to show off your arms.

 

Here are two paths that may help you reach these goals:

 

Liposuction

This approach does not remove any excess skin on the arm; it removes fat to trim and shape the arm. Because removing fat often leaves an excess of skin, pairing liposuction with brachioplasty may be necessary for more dramatic results. For those with very elastic skin, who only need a minimal reduction in size, liposuction alone may be sufficient. Consult with Dr. Rowley on the best pairing of procedures for you.

 

Brachioplasty

Brachio means arm, and plasty means to mold or to form. An arm lift removes both fat and extra skin around the arm upper.  Although it seems simple just to remove fat, brachioplasty includes a careful sculpting of the arm to ensure the taper in size from shoulder to wrist looks natural. Dr. Rowley truly has an artist’s touch to contour the arms.
Having sagging upper arms can make you feel self-conscious and make it hard to shop for clothes that fit you well. Whether you choose an arm lift or liposuction, you can call  Rowley Plastic Surgery to schedule your personal, no-obligation consultation here in Lubbock. And before you know it, you’ll be waving “good bye” to the sag and jiggle of today and “hello” to the toned, lean, and sculpted arms of tomorrow. rowleyplasticsurgery.com

Recovery After Brachioplasty

You have plastic surgery choices that can contour and reshape areas all over your body. Breast augmentation and tummy tuck procedures are some of the most popular picks. Requests for arm lifts, called a brachioplasty, increasing in frequency each year.  When we age or lose a significant amount of weight, our upper arms can sag and develop what are commonly called “bat wings.” If you have excess skin and fatty tissue on your upper arms that do not change with exercise, you could be a good candidate for an arm lift.

 

Recovery After Your Arm Lift Surgery in Lubbock

 

Patients in Lubbock should plan to have someone drive them home from surgery and stay with them for at least the first 24 hours. You need to have someone with you as you start your recovery and work through the last effects of anesthetics. You will have a drain from your incision for excess blood and fluids caused by surgery. Your surgeon will ask that you try to keep your arms elevated and as straight as possible. You will be fitted for compression garments for your arms as well. It is important to rest and follow your surgeon’s instructions carefully for a more successful recovery.

 

Getting Back into Your Life

 

Your recovery period will range from one to several weeks depending on how extensive your procedures is. Each patient will have his or her individual experience with recovery. Some people experience discomfort, bruising, swelling. Plan to take at least a week off work or other obligations to allow time to heal. Expect to be back to normal activities in 3-4 weeks. You can start an exercise routine in six weeks after your surgery.

 

The result of your arm lift is visible immediately, and after surgery the scarring will fade significantly over time. On the right patient, an arm lift can make a dramatic difference in appearance and give your arms a new youthful look.
One of the most important factors for the success of your plastic surgery is to choose an expert, board-certified plastic surgeon. Dr. Jane Rowley has over twenty years experience helping her patients gain greater confidence in their physical appearance. Whether you are interested in a tummy tuck or an arm lift, Dr. Rowley will discuss options and procedures thoroughly with you. Find out more about her experience and caring staff at rowleyplasticsurgery.com

Who is a Good Candidate for an Arm Lift?

breast reduction, Lubbock

 

When you think about plastic surgery, the typical cosmetic procedures that come to mind are probably breast reduction or implant procedures, facelifts, and tummy tucks. Our Lubbock office supports all types of work to help you reach your goals when it comes to your body. One of those surgeries is an arm lift. For those with excess or stretched skin along the back of the arm, you may be a good candidate for removing what has lovingly been referred to by some people as “grandma arms”.

 

A good candidate includes the following:

  • You have either lost a significant amount of weight that has left you with excess arm skin
  • You have relaxed arm skin due to aging
  • You do not smoke or are willing to commit to a smoke-free lifestyle before and after the procedure
  • You are committed to a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise and a well-balanced diet
  • Your general health is good, and you have no medical conditions that would increase risks
  • Your weight is relatively stable and in a healthy range

 

If you meet all of the criteria above, you may be a good candidate for this procedure. It is important to remember that any plastic surgery, from the tummy tuck to the breast reduction, is not a substitute for a healthy diet or routine exercise, but instead a supplement to achieve the desired body shape when already maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

 

Often the process of tightening the arm skin is paired with liposuction to remove the deposits of fat in the same area. Consult with your doctor in our Lubbock office to decide if one or both of these procedures is needed  for you to achieve your desired results.
Dr. Jane Rowley is a board certified plastic surgeon who will carefully listen to the feelings and expectations of her patients. Her goal is that each patient goes into any procedure with the information needed for the best result possible. Visit the clinic and meet her caring staff. You can schedule a no-obligation consultation and discuss your options in discovering greater confidence in your physical appearance.

Increased Popularity of Arm Lifts in Lubbock

breast augmentation

 

Society seems to be increasing its obsession with staying young and looking as good as possible. In Lubbock, you can also see a growing emphasis on being healthy which includes weight loss. The extreme at the other end of the spectrum is the growing rate of obesity in America. When weight gain gets out of control and beyond the help of diet and exercise, some people are turning to more drastic measures to lose significant amounts of weight. When weight has been high then is quickly lost, the body will have stretched skin that hangs and sags. Not just weight loss can cause your upper arms to sag. Excess skin can become loose as a result of age and heredity. Brachioplasty, or an arm lift, can have a dramatic effect on the right patient to tone and reshape the upper arms.

 

Are You a Good Candidate?

If you are bothered by excess, saggy skin that causes you to be self-conscious of showing your arms, you can consider an arm lift procedure. Patients should be in overall good health and be able to tolerate anesthesia before considering surgery. Since smoking inhibits your healing, you should make sure you have stopped smoking before you schedule your surgery.

What to Expect in Recovery

Arm lifts will take less time in the operating room than a more extensive surgery like breast augmentation. The procedure takes about one hour on an outpatient basis. Patients usually have compression bandages on for about two weeks and can expect to resume regular activities in about seven days.

 

The Results

People are worried about the extent of scarring from an arm lift. Finding a highly skilled, board certified plastic surgeon will always give you better results. The placement of the incision, the skill of your doctor, and the neatness of the closure will have an effect on the amount of scarring.  Even with subtle changes in your arms, your body can have an overall look of being more slender and younger.
Breast augmentation is still one of the most popular plastic surgery choices. But, arm lift procedures are becoming more common. Dr. Jane Rowley is the board certified surgeon who will carefully listen to your surgical goals and make a plastic surgery plan to fit your individual circumstance. Learn more about the procedures we offer at rowleyplasticsurgery.com. Schedule your consultation today.