It’s inevitable that if you get an arm lift before and after you’ll have loads of questions for your plastic surgeon and their team. Now, of course, there’s nothing wrong with this. In fact, it’s good. We want you to have questions!
But sometimes, getting a head start on them can be beneficial as you approach your surgery. You can naturally call our office any time or, even better, bring your list of concerns to your consultation appointment. But until then, browse these frequently asked questions about arm lift recovery, procedure steps, how to prepare, and other hot topics.
Before Arm Lift Surgery FAQs
What will I need to do before undergoing arm lift surgery?
Before your arm lift surgery, you’ll need to book a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon to determine your candidacy and discuss your goals. You should be in good overall health, as conditions like uncontrolled diabetes or heart issues may complicate surgery.
Your surgeon may require certain tests, such as blood work or an EKG, to ensure you’re fit for surgery. Additionally, you may need to stop smoking and avoid certain medications that can affect recovery.
Who is a good candidate for an arm lift?
A good candidate for an arm lift typically has excess skin on the upper arms rather than just fat. Most candidates have experienced significant weight loss (usually either through medical weight loss drugs, gastric bypass surgery, or diet and exercise) and now struggle with sagging skin.
Patients should be in good health, have realistic expectations, and understand the potential for scarring. If you have minimal skin laxity but excess fat, liposuction alone might be a better option.
How much is an arm lift?
Arm lift cost varies greatly depending on factors like the extent of the procedure, anesthesia, and the surgeon’s expertise. To get an accurate price quote, it’s important to schedule a consultation.
Is there such a thing as a scarless arm lift?
While there is no true scarless arm lift surgery (because all arm lift procedures require incisions), a mini arm lift may be an option for some patients. This procedure involves smaller incisions made closer to the armpit. It results in less noticeable arm lift scars.
You can look at scarless arm lift before and after photos (mini arm lift before and after photos) to see these scars in comparison to standard arm lift before and after scar photos. When looking at the pictures filter cases by arm lift time, male female patient, etc. Over time, proper scar care can help minimize their appearance even more.
What is a mini arm lift?
A mini arm lift is a less invasive version of the traditional arm lift plastic surgery. It is a surgical procedure designed for patients with minimal skin sagging on the upper arm. It’s sometimes called a “scarless arm lift” because the incisions are smaller, often hidden in the armpit, and less skin is removed compared to a full arm lift.
After Arm Lift Surgery FAQs
Is arm lift recovery painful?
Arm lift recovery typically involves some discomfort, but it can be managed with pain medication prescribed by your plastic surgeon. Most patients report that the first few days are the most uncomfortable. Your pain should decrease significantly after this time.
What will my mobility be like after arm lift surgery?
Your mobility will be limited after arm lift surgery, particularly with movements that involve raising your arms or using their strength (to open a jar, for example). You’ll need to avoid lifting heavy objects or raising your arms above shoulder height for a few weeks.
Most patients can resume light activities after two weeks but should avoid strenuous exercise for four to six weeks or longer to ensure proper healing.
How should I prepare for arm lift recovery?
How should I prepare for arm lift recovery?Preparing for arm lift recovery includes setting up your home with everything you’ll need to avoid reaching or stretching post-surgery. Arrange for help with daily tasks like dressing and meal prep, as your arm movement will be greatly restricted. Stock up on comfortable, loose-fitting clothes and follow your surgeon’s post-op care instructions.
What do arm lift scars look like?
Arm lift scars are typically located along the inner arm, extending from the armpit to the elbow. With a mini arm lift (sometimes called scarless arm lift), the scars are smaller and often hidden in the armpit. They will be red and slightly raised right after surgery.
How can I avoid arm lift scars?
While it’s impossible to avoid scars completely, you can take steps to minimize their appearance. Following your surgeon’s post-op care instructions is a good start. Avoid sun exposure, don’t exercise until cleared to, eat healthy, use scar massage (if cleared to), and apply silicone gel sheets regularly.
Request a Consultation with Dr. Galanis
If you’ve recently lost a considerable amount of weight and the excess skin on your upper arms is bothering you, an arm lift is your best solution. Only arm lift surgery can give you the slim arms you’ve worked so hard for. No more bat wings.
Call today to set up a consultation appointment with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Charles Galanis. We look forward to hearing from you.
