Understanding the cost of plastic surgery can be challenging, especially if you’ve never undergone a plastic surgery procedure before. Arm lift surgery in Beverly Hills is an extremely common procedure for patients who have been through a dramatic weight loss and now want to get rid of excess hanging skin (sometimes called “bat wings”) on their upper arms.
Below, we take a look at arm lift cost and general procedure details, which may help you further understand this surgery and whether it’s right for you.
How Much Is an Arm Lift?
Arm lift cost varies due to several factors unique to each patient and surgical plan. It’s essential to book a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon to get an accurate estimate. Here are some primary cost considerations.
Surgeon’s Expertise
An experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon will likely charge more than a less-experienced surgeon. This isn’t a bad thing, though. More expertise ensures a safer and often more satisfying outcome.
Surgical Facility
Some arm lift surgeries take place in outpatient surgery centers, while others are performed in hospital settings. The surgical facility type can influence the cost. Hospitals generally charge more due to higher overhead and equipment costs.
Location
Where you have your arm lift surgery performed can affect cost. Some regions have higher plastic surgery costs due to local demand and overall cost of living, while more rural regions may offer lower prices.
Anesthesia Fees
For an arm lift procedure, general anesthesia is typically used, and this fee varies depending on the anesthesiologist’s rates and time in surgery. Board certified anesthesiologists generally charge more due to their extensive training and experience.
Does Insurance Cover Arm Lift Surgery?
Insurance usually does not cover the cost if you would like to get an arm lift to improve your appearance. This is because it is generally classified as a cosmetic procedure rather than medically necessary surgery.
However, if the excess skin on your upper arm causes severe irritation or other health issues, there may be a chance that some insurance plans could help cover part of the surgery. It’s best to contact your insurance provider directly and discuss whether any part of an arm lift may qualify for coverage.
Arm Lift Procedure Overview
An arm lift, also known as brachioplasty, is a plastic surgery procedure designed to remove excess skin and reduce stubborn fat deposits on the upper arm.
During this body contouring procedure, a plastic surgeon carefully removes excess sagging skin and repositions tissue to create a more toned arm appearance. Arm lift surgery is ideal for individuals who maintain a stable weight and have not achieved desired results through exercise and diet alone.
Arm Lift Procedure Steps
Step 1: Anesthesia
Before the procedure begins, general anesthesia is administered to ensure you remain comfortable and pain-free during surgery. General anesthesia is often recommended for arm lifts due to the procedure’s duration and complexity.
Step 2: Incision Placement
The surgeon makes an incision along the inner or back of the upper arm to access excess skin and fat. The incision length and placement depend on the amount of skin being removed and the technique chosen for the arm lift procedure.
Step 3: Removal of Excess Skin and Fat
Once the incision is made, the surgeon removes excess skin and may use liposuction to target stubborn fat deposits if necessary. This step helps improve the shape and appearance of the upper arms.
Step 4: Tissue Tightening and Closure
The remaining skin is carefully repositioned and tightened to create a more contoured look. Sutures are used to close the incision, and bandages are applied.
Step 5: Recovery Process
After surgery, you will receive specific instructions on caring for your incisions and what to expect during your initial arm lift recovery. Most patients experience some swelling and discomfort, but these symptoms typically subside with proper care and rest.
Arm Lift Surgery Cost & Procedure FAQs
Is arm lift surgery safe?
Yes, arm lift surgery is generally safe when performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon in an accredited surgical facility. Like any surgery, however, there are some risks, including infection, scarring, and anesthesia complications. Choosing a qualified surgeon reduces these risks and helps ensure a safe and satisfying outcome.
What does the recovery process look like?
Recovery from an arm lift involves wearing compression garments and following your surgeon’s guidelines to ensure proper healing. You may experience swelling and discomfort for a few weeks. It’s essential to rest and avoid strenuous activities. Drink plenty of water, and eat a healthy diet as you heal.
Will I have visible scars after an arm lift?
Most patients will have a scar along the inside or back of their upper arm, though its visibility fades over time. Surgeons aim to place incisions where they are less noticeable, but individual healing and skin type can affect scarring.
How much does arm lift surgery cost near me?
This is a good question to ask at your consultation appointment for arm lift surgery. The arm lift cost for both arms can vary greatly, so inquiring directly with your chosen surgeon will give you the most accurate answer.
Can I combine an arm lift with other body contouring procedures?
Yes, an arm lift can often be combined with other body contouring procedures, like a tummy tuck or liposuction to achieve more comprehensive results.
Book Your Consultation with Dr. Galanis
Whether you are only interested in arm lift surgery or you’d like to combine arm lift surgery with other body contouring procedures to reduce excess loose skin and fat, we can help.
Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Charles Galanis performs a wide range of breast surgeries and body contouring procedures at his Beverly Hills practice. Please contact us today to request a consultation with Dr. Galanis. We look forward to hearing from you!
