(312) 787-5313 Menu

What is an arm lift?

When significant weight loss occurs, the skin on the upper arms can become loose and saggy and cause the dreaded “bat wings” that keep on waving after you’ve said goodbye. An arm lift in Chicago, or brachioplasty, removes excess arm skin and fat, giving you slimmer, firmer arms and the confidence to wear sleeveless shirts and dresses again.

Board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Otto Placik has helped thousands of patients from Chicago and the neighboring suburbs improve the appearance of their upper arms with an arm lift. In addition to arm lift surgery, Dr. Placik offers a variety of body contouring procedures to help men and women just like you look and feel their best.

Please contact us online or call our Chicago or Arlington Heights plastic surgery offices for more information on an arm lift, including prices.

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon in Chicago

Dr. Otto Joseph Placik Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon

Dr. Placik is a board certified plastic surgeon in Chicago and an active member of The American Society of Plastic Surgeons. He received his medical degree from Northwestern University where he also completed residencies in general and plastic and reconstructive surgery.

Read more >>

About Arm Lifts

Patients who experience dramatic weight loss often find that the skin on their upper arms doesn’t contract to fit their new slimmer shape or show off their muscle tone. Even without a significant change in weight, the natural effects of age and gravity can bring about a loss of elasticity in upper arm skin, particularly in women. Achieving a sleeker, more contoured look to the arms can improve the silhouette of your entire body.

How is an arm lift performed?

There are different ways to perform an arm lift, and Dr. Placik will decide which method is best for you after a physical examination. Typically, an incision will be made from the armpit to the elbow on the inside or back of the arm in order to remove the excess skin and fatty tissue. Dr. Placik then sutures and dresses the incision. To achieve even better results, Dr. Placik may include liposuction near the upper arm or the surrounding transition areas as well. Some patients may be able to get satisfactory results with a mini-arm lift or minimal scar technique, which requires a smaller incision and removes less skin.

Chicago Arm Lift Diagram

Arm Lift
Actual
Patient Not a Model

Arm Lift Recovery

A Chicago arm lift will require the use of general anesthesia, although patients typically go home the same day as their surgery. After surgery, you will have dressings wrapped around the upper arms to protect the incisions and Dr. Placik may write a prescription to help control any pain or discomfort you experience during your recovery. Despite some initial swelling, most patients return to work and other daily activities within a week or so after an arm lift. The appearance of the scars will continue to improve over time, but are typically not noticeable since they’re located discreetly on the inside of the arm, where they’re hidden by the body.

Arm Lift FAQ

Am I a good candidate for arm lift surgery?

The best candidates for an arm lift in Chicago are not significantly overweight and simply want to enhance their existing figure by removing excess arm skin. Nonsmokers who are in good health and have realistic expectations about their procedure will see the most satisfactory results. Patients must accept the presence of a visible scar.

Can other body contouring procedures be performed at the same time as an arm lift?

Patients with excess skin in the upper arms will usually have excess skin in other areas, particularly as the result of significant weight loss. Other post-weight loss body contouring procedures include a thigh lift and a tummy tuck. Dr. Placik will discuss options for combining surgeries during your consultation.

How much does an arm lift cost?

The cost of an arm lift will vary based on the type of surgical approach Dr. Placik determines will best meet your cosmetic goals. The addition of other body contouring procedures into your surgery will also affect the total fee. The surgery costs will include the anesthesiologist’s fee, Dr. Placik’s surgical fee and the fee associated with the use of the surgical center. Dr. Placik and his staff strive to provide excellent value and can help you with [url] cosmetic surgery financing [/url] to make your procedure even more affordable.

Will my arm lift results be permanent?

The results from an arm lift should last a very long time as long as the patient remains committed to a healthy lifestyle and long-term weight maintenance. Significant fluctuations in weight or continued loss of skin elasticity due to age may affect the results over time.

What are the risks of an arm lift?

Just like with any surgical procedure, there are some potential risks related to arm lifts. Although an arm lift is a relatively safe and routine procedure, some of the side effects that can occur are bleeding, infection or negative reaction to anesthesia. Dr. Placik will take the time to thoroughly discuss all possible complications with you before your surgery to ensure you’re well-informed.

Dr. Placik promises you his best possible care and attention. If you would like to schedule a private consultation to learn more about an arm lift, please contact us online or call us at 847-398-1660.

Loading...

Rate Us!

Please take a moment to rate your experience with our team.

Yelp - Chicago Yelp - Arlington Heights Google Facebook
Rate Us