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Also known as an arm lift. If you're tired of that loose, floppy arm skin from weight loss, get your arms back with this procedure.
A brachioplasty more commonly known as an “arm-lift”, is an operation performed to remove excess skin and fat from the upper arm. Aging and weight loss can contribute to sagging of arm skin, which is most noticeable with arm elevation.
For many people in Tacoma and Puyallup, losing weight is only the first step in the pursuit of the ideal figure. Sometimes (especially among those whose skin has lost elasticity due to age or excessive stretching) the hanging skin that remains isn’t exactly what the person who invested so much time and work into getting in shape had in mind.
Patients who have significant skin laxity localized to the upper arms from weight loss. Patients typically are not candidates for liposuction and other skin tightening devices such as Renuvion. Patients also must be comfortable with a long linear scar on their upper arms that will be noticeable to others.
To reshape and tone the arm skin, Dr. Patel usually makes an incision along the inside of the arm, extending from the underarm area (armpit) to the elbow. Scars are usually hidden while arms are resting at one’s side. Liposuction is often added to this procedure to improve final shape and contour. Depending on skin excess and elasticity, liposuction alone may provide sufficient improvement.
Dr. Patel performs arm lifts under general anesthesia as an outpatient procedure. We instruct arm lift patients to wear a compression garment for several weeks post operatively to continue to maintain the contour that Dr. Patel created. Light arm movement is encouraged soon after surgery but strenuous upper body activity is limited for several weeks after surgery. Patients may drive and return to work once they discontinue narcotic pain medicine.
Some patients may not require a brachioplasty but still dislike the appearance of their upper arms due to excess subcutaneous fat in the upper arms, which is resistant to diet and exercise. They may be an appropriate candidate for liposuction and Renuvion. Renuvion is a device that helps with soft tissue contraction. Appropriate candidates are at or near their normal weight and desire change in the contour of their arms or liposculpture. Liposuction of the arms is intended to produce a permanent improvement in the contour and proportion of the arm. A more flattering shape to the arm out of clothing is another goal of liposculpture.
Liposuction is done on an outpatient basis. General anesthesia is used for safety and comfort. Small suction tubes (cannulas) are inserted through very small incisions at the elbow and armpit area where they will be inconspicuous. Fat is then removed by applying suction to the cannula. Renuvion is then applied to the deep tissues to provide additional soft tissue contraction.
Patients go home with a compression sleeve garment covering the treated areas. Compression is advised for at least month to reduce the swelling and to promote skin shrinkage and contouring. Initial discomfort is controlled with oral medication. Bruising and swelling typically subside within two to four weeks. The final result takes shape over the course of two to three months.
"I've never had a flat stomach, even before I had my two sons via c-sections 20+ years ago. It's not that I never tried. Believe me, I tried! I would build muscle, but you wouldn't see it under the "tummy tire" or "muffin top" that was always there. Last summer, a good friend and I were talking (for the umpteenth time) about how awesome it would be to have a tummy tuck done. She had gone to a consult with another doctor a few months prior about having the procedure done. So I decided it was time that I either did something about it or stop talking about it forever! I found Dr Patel's name through my dermatologists office and made a consultation appointment right then. I knew from the moment Dr Patel walked in that he was the one who could help me. He had such a friendly, yet professional way about him that put me at ease right away. When my husband got home that night I told him all about Dr Patel and how much I really liked him. My husband asked, "When's the surgery?" Preop, surgery and recovery went smoothly. I was well informed ahead of the surgery so I was relaxed and completely at ease when I arrived at the surgery center. During the first few weeks of my recovery, Dr Patel was only a text or phone call away when I had questions. I am now a little over 4 months out from surgery and I couldn't be happier with the results! I can actually tuck my shirt into my pants with a confidence I've never before felt. I've even gone down 3 pant sizes. Shopping for clothes has been fun! I am so very glad I finally made the decision to have the surgery. And I'm especially glad Dr Patel was the one to do it. Thank you."
"Choosing Dr. Tarak Patel for my "mommy makeover" was one of the best decisions I've ever made. The entire experience, from the first appointment to the follow-up care, was seamless and supportive. Dr. Patel and his team ensured that every aspect of the process, including scheduling, the surgery itself, and the recovery, was handled with the highest level of professionalism and empathy. Dr. Patel's bedside manner sets him apart; he's genuinely caring and attentive, making sure I felt comfortable and informed at every stage. The results of my breast augmentation and abdominoplasty are truly beautiful—beyond what I had imagined. The skill and precision Dr. Patel exhibited in crafting these results speak volumes about his expertise. The aftercare was exceptional, with Dr. Patel and his team readily available to answer any questions and ensure my recovery was smooth. I am deeply thankful to Dr. Patel for not just the physical transformation, but also for the confidence boost that has come with it. If you are contemplating a transformation, I cannot recommend Dr. Patel enough. His professionalism, coupled with his compassionate demeanor, makes him a standout. Thank you, Dr. Patel, for everything!"
"Dr Patel was a breath of fresh air. The care he provided and knowledge was immeasurable. I have never had a Dr come in after the appt time (3min) and apologize for the wait. I had stitches bust over the weekend after surgery and he met me on Sunday to fix the stitches. I had Brachioplasty and Mastopexy - this was no small surgery. The continued care that I received and the results are amazing. To be confident and comfortable in a tank top for the first time in my life is priceless. I have Dr Patel to thank for this, it was not an easy decision, but one made easy with him in my corner. I will be forever grateful!"
"Dr. Patel is not just an incredibly talented plastic surgeon, but he is also very relational and makes his patients feel like part of his family. I highly recommend him!"
"In my job, I work with surgeons on a regular basis and I have never met one who is as talented, kind and caring as Dr. Patel. He genuinely cares about each and every one of his patients. He goes the extra mile to make sure you understand your surgical options and explains the whole process from before surgery all the way to recovery and he does it in easy to understand language, not doctor speak. I have had 2 procedures done with Dr. Patel including a tummy tuck and breast augmentation and both experiences were fantastic. I never felt like I was alone in the process from making the decision to have surgery through recovery and even after that. I can call the office or Dr. Patel directly if I have any questions whatsoever and he always responds. I would highly recommend him and I have to many friends and family."
"My entire experience from the moment I visited Dr. Patel’s office, I was warmly greeted by his staff and from my post op care to follow up I truly felt like his number one patient. Dr. Patel seriously listened to me and understood what I wanted.
My eyes had been bothering me for years and I wanted a clean refreshed look. He completely delivered on what he promised. He has given me a new lease on life and I’m sincerely grateful. I whole hardily thank him and his staff their outstanding surgery procedure and the new me. I smile daily when I look in the mirror! I consistently recommend Dr. Patel to family and friends without hesitation."
"I am extremely grateful for your kindness in providing me with a tummy tuck. You have made my unimaginable dream for the past 35 years come true and with incredible results at that. You’ve given me a fabulous look, freedom from having to cover up my ugly tummy, and the list goes on. My husband is definitely marveled at the results. Thank you for all the laughter during every appointment that I had with you. It was absolutely a blessing to have you as my surgeon."
"I am very thankful for the huge improvement!! Thank you so much for your professionalism; it is so evident that you really care about your patients and go out of your way to make sure all my questions are answered, and just making sure your patients receive great service from you! That is not a common thing anymore; so thank you very much!!!!"
Taking the first step many times is the hardest part of the process. If you are ready for change and want to learn more about our procedures, come see Dr. Patel for a free personalized, no-pressure consultation.
