Loose and jiggly skin on the underside of the upper arms is a frustration for many people. This condition is often given the derogatory name “bat wings”, and it becomes more visible as the arms are raised. This unsightly flab may produce such feelings of self-consciousness that people avoid wearing sleeveless garments or swimsuits. Imagine feeling so embarrassed about your upper arms that you are compelled to wear long sleeves in our south Florida heat.
Diet and exercise are not the answer. No matter how many hours are spent working out in the gym, severe upper arm sagging is unlikely to significantly improve. However, upper arm lift surgery can be a real game changer.
What is arm lift surgery?
Arm lift surgery contours and reshapes the underside of the upper arms to give patients a more toned appearance. Known as brachioplasty, this surgery removes flabby, excess skin and fat from the armpit to the elbow. The fat can be removed with liposuction, and underlying muscles can be tightened. Arm lift surgery is a real confidence booster for patients who have been embarrassed to show their upper arms.
What causes saggy upper arms?
Two main factors can contribute to saggy upper arms – age and significant weight loss. Skin laxity is often part of the aging process. The skin loses elasticity as the body produces less collagen and elastin. The epidermis layer of the skin thins, and the result is sagging, jiggly skin. Hormonal changes as women age, genetics, and the amount of UV sun exposure also play a role.
Significant weight loss or major weight fluctuation is another key factor resulting in saggy upper arms. Skin is more likely to sag after rapid weight loss. Skin that has lost elasticity from carrying excess weight is not able to snap back, or return, to its former position after significant weight loss. No amount of exercise is going to resolve this problem. A surgical procedure is the only way to remove the loose skin.
Will there be scars?
Dr. Keusch will strategically place incisions along the inner and back portion of the upper arms. Scars will be most visible directly following surgery, when there is some redness and swelling along the incision. With proper wound care, scars will diminish over the recovery period. Texture, smoothness, and color should improve over time, but some scarring may always be visible.
When will I see results?
Many patients see results right away, especially if sagging was pronounced. After initial swelling and bruising subsides, arms will appear more toned and contoured. Results are long-lasting if the patient maintains a stable weight and good general fitness.
Choose a Top Surgeon
Dr. Cristina Keusch, founder of Boca Raton Plastic Surgery Center, is a Board Certified plastic surgeon. She has been honored as a Castle Connolly Top Doctor since 2004. Contact our office for a consultation.