Loose skin on the upper arms is commonly associated with significant weight loss, but the aging process, genetics, and stubborn pockets of localized fat can also create the appearance of “bat wings.” Regardless of the cause, it may be a good time to consider an arm lift if:

You are troubled by sagging, drooping upper-arm skin

Your skin has lost its elasticity

Your loose skin has a crepe-like appearance

You’ve lost a significant amount of weight and have excess, stretched skin

You experience chafing, rashes or irritation

You aren’t comfortable wearing clothing that exposes your upper arms (short sleeves, sleeveless garments, dresses, tank tops, bathing suits, etc.)

You understand an arm lift is not a substitute for a healthy diet or exercise

You have realistic expectations

For an optimal outcome, it’s recommended that patients are at or near their goal before undergoing arm lift surgery. This will allow Dr. Huettner at Manhattan Plastic Surgery NYC to sculpt seamless results that complement the rest of your body. Maintaining a stable weight is also important to preserve the tone and definition of your arms after surgery.

At Manhattan Plastic Surgery NYC, your arm lift surgery will be highly personalized depending on your unique needs, expectations and anatomy. Before beginning, Dr. Huettner will carefully mark the treatment area to ensure an accurate and reliable outcome that addresses your specific concerns. Arm lifts can be performed in a few different ways, but the technique Dr. Huettner uses will be based on your skin’s elasticity, the amount of excess skin and fat being removed and your aesthetic goals. Often, the arm lift procedure includes liposuction to remove localized deposits of fat for a more smooth and aesthetically pleasing result.

A traditional arm lift utilizes a strategically placed incision that extends down from the armpit to an area close to the the elbow, allowing Dr. Huettner to contour the fatty tissues, sculpt a more defined shape and effectively remove unwanted skin. She will then pull the skin taut and suture it in place, creating a firmer and more toned upper arm. This technique is often used for patients with a significant amount of extra skin for more dramatic results.

For patients with a smaller amount of excess arm skin, Dr. Huettner may use a less invasive approach known as a limited incision arm lift. Rather than utilizing a long incision along the length of the upper arm, this technique uses a smaller incision in the underarms, allowing Dr. Huettner to achieve good results and minimize visible scarring.

The type of arm lift that is right for you will depend on a variety of factors, which Dr. Huettner at Manhattan Plastic Surgery NYC will discuss with you in detail during a consultation. As an expert in creating balanced, proportioned and artistic results, your arm lift procedure will be tailored just for you to ensure a smooth, seamless appearance that complements and enhances your overall appearance.

After your arm lift procedure, the area will be tender and sore, but most patients are able to manage any post-operative discomfort with over-the-counter medications. Your arm movement may also be reduced following your surgery, as bandages, dressings or compression garments may be used to control swelling and bruising. To prevent excess fluid from accumulating, a drain may also be used. During this time, it’s important to limit vigorous activity, but most patients can return to work or school one to two weeks after the procedure.

Dr. Huettner at Manhattan Plastic Surgery NYC will advise you on returning to physical activity and provide detailed aftercare instructions for cleaning your incisions, managing any symptoms you experience and minimizing scarring. The visibility of your scars will depend on which technique was used, although these will become less noticeable as your body heals and continue to improve over time. If you have any questions or concerns during your recovery period, Dr. Huettner provides you with a direct line of communication. She believes in giving each patient her undivided attention and the one-on-one care they deserve, facilitating a better plastic surgery experience and improving treatment outcomes.