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An arm lift is a surgical procedure used to improve the appearance of the upper arm when diet and exercise cannot. Dr. Douglas Steinbrech is a board-certified plastic surgeon who regularly performs arm lift procedures in New York, NY.
Substantial weight loss, weight gain, or the effects of genetics and aging can loosen and weaken the skin and tissues and cause fat deposits to develop in unwanted areas. One of the most common areas of the body to visibly show these unwanted changes is the upper arm. Loose, sagging skin between the armpit and elbow can make patients feel unattractive and uncomfortable. Unfortunately, this cannot be reversed with diet and exercise alone. For many patients, an arm lift procedure is a solution to their problem.
An Arm Lift Procedure with Dr. Steinbrech
Dr. Steinbrech performs arm lifts on patients from New York, New Jersey, and across the United States. The procedure is done under local anesthesia, IV sedation, or general anesthesia at a conveniently located New York, NY hospital or surgery center. Typical procedure time is 1-3-hours.
Once the patient is comfortable and sedated, an incision is made on the inside or back of the arm. *Because each patient’s procedure is tailored to meet individual goals, Dr. Steinbrech discusses specifics regarding incision location, pattern, and length during initial consultations. Following the incision, the following steps complete the procedure:
- Loose, sagging skin and excess fat are removed via excision and possibly liposuction
- The tissues are tightened and secured using absorbable sutures
- The skin is smoothed out over the tissues and the incision is closed using sutures that will later be removed
Once the procedure is complete, dressings are applied to the incision and the arm is wrapped in an elastic bandage to protect the incision and minimize swelling.
Results Following an Arm Lift
Generally, an arm lift procedure results in the following:
- Smoother, tighter skin
- Arms that have a more natural, toned appearance
- Improved self-perception
In most cases, these results are seen immediately after the surgery-related swelling goes down. Patients who maintain their weight and live a healthy, active lifestyle can look forward to long-lasting or potentially permanent results.
Good Candidates for an Arm Lift
Men and women who have lax skin in their upper arms due to weight gain, weight loss, aging, and/or genetics can benefit from an arm lift procedure. Good candidates for the procedure include, but are not limited to the following:
- Adults who maintain their weight
- Healthy, non-smoking adults
- Adults with realistic expectations and a positive mindset
Before deciding to undergo surgery, it is important for candidates to understand that an arm lift is not able to achieve perfection, though with good technique it can come close.
An Initial Consultation with Dr. Steinbrech
Patients interested in an arm lift will have an extensive initial consultation, which includes the following:
- A thorough review of your medical history
- A thorough physical examination, in which your doctor may take pictures for review
- A discussion regarding goals, non-surgical options, and expected surgical results
Dr. Steinbrech will also go into great detail when answering questions and addressing concerns.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
As is the case with all surgeries, there are risks associated with an arm lift, including infection, hematoma, numbness at or near the surgical site, swelling of the hands, and fluid accumulation.
Additional risks are those associated with surgical anesthesia. These risks will be explained by Dr. Steinbrech. If they occur, side effects are typically temporary.
Swelling, bruising, and minimal discomfort are symptoms that may present immediately after surgery. Prescribed pain medication may be taken to control discomfort. Swelling and bruising will begin to dissipate within two week. Elevating the arm will help to alleviate swelling.
Sutures may be removed by Dr. Steinbrech one week after surgery.
Dr. Steinbrech strategically places incisions on natural skin folds and/or areas of the arm that may be covered with clothing. Though a scar will result, it is generally well concealed and will fade in time. At your initial consultation, Dr. Steinbrech will show you before-and-after pictures and tell you what to expect regarding scarring. In almost all cases, the positive outcomes of surgery far outweigh the chance that a noticeable scar may develop.
Depending on your condition and goals, liposuction may be combined with your arm lift. Generally, liposuction is indicated for patients who have stubborn fat deposits that cannot be excised.
The time frame for returning to work occurs on a patient-by-patient basis and will be discussed with you at your initial consultation.
Most patients are able to return to physical activity 4-6-weeks after surgery.
Yes, smoking interferes with the body’s healing processes and should be stopped prior to and after surgery. Patients who resume smoking after surgery may jeopardize their results.
The best way to know if you are a candidate for an arm lift is to schedule your initial consultation. A review of your medical history and lifestyle, a physical exam, and a discussion regarding your goals and expectations will help Dr. Steinbrech determine if an arm lift can help you and if you are a candidate for one.
Of course! Before-and-after photos are an invaluable way to show you what you can expect after surgery. Because he has a long list of satisfied patients, Dr. Steinbrech will be able to show you before-and-after photos of patients who had a condition similar to yours.
HOW CAN I MAXIMIZE MY RESULTS?
Results will be discussed before and after surgery. There are things you can do to ensure your body heals properly and your results are long–lasting or permanent, including:
- Maintaining your weight and health through a proper diet and exercise program
- Applying sunscreen to your surgical site for six months after surgery
- Following the plan and instructions that were given to you by Dr. Steinbrech
WHAT SHOULD I BRING TO MY INITIAL CONSULTATION?
Before going to your initial consultation it is important that you know what your goals and expectations are. In addition, you bring the following:
- A list of questions for Dr. Steinbrech
- A list of potential concerns
If you like, you can also bring photos for comparison purposes.
How can I make an appointment for an initial consultation?
Dr. Steinbrech, one of America’s top plastic surgeons, is a specialist in body and arm lift procedures. If you are ready for your initial consultation at his office in New York, NY, please give us a call at (347) 983-9560.