Arm Lift in Houston & Webster, TX
Also serving patients in Friendswood, League City, Pearland, and Clear Lake
Also serving patients in Friendswood, League City, Pearland, and Clear Lake
If you feel self-conscious about sagging, excess skin on your upper arms, an arm lift, or brachioplasty surgery, could be the solution. This cosmetic procedure is especially beneficial for individuals who have experienced significant weight loss or aging, both of which can leave behind loose skin that exercise and a healthy weight cannot fix.
At Kim Carpin Plastic Surgery, board-certified cosmetic surgeon Dr. Kimberly Carpin specializes in providing personalized care with attention to detail. Her artistic background and years of surgical training allow her to deliver customized, natural-looking results that enhance each patient’s unique anatomy. Whether you’re looking to improve your appearance or restore confidence, Dr. Carpin’s patient-centric approach ensures a safe, supportive experience. Schedule a consultation today to learn more.
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Removes excess skin and fat from the upper arms for a firmer, more toned appearance
Reduces sagging skin, improves arm contours, and restores confidence
Typically 2-4 weeks for most activities; full recovery in several months
1.5 to 3 hours under general anesthesia
Long-lasting improvements when paired with a stable weight, healthy diet, and lifestyle.
An arm lift is a surgical procedure that removes excess fat and skin from the upper arms, typically in the triceps or underarm region. An arm lift is usually performed on patients who are close to their ideal weight but are unable to tone their arms despite regular exercise.
Patients may develop hanging skin after major weight loss or with aging. Unfortunately, diet and exercise alone often may not tone this problem area. Patients with hanging arm skin are often uncomfortable wearing sleeveless clothes or bathing suits. This procedure will improve the shape and contour of the upper arm, giving you the confidence to show your toned arms.
Arm lift surgery is performed in the operating room under heavy sedation or general anesthesia. The procedure takes about two to three hours. If necessary, liposuction will be performed first to thin excess fat from under the skin.
An incision is made to remove the skin from under the arm to create a tighter and more toned appearing upper arm. The incision placement will depend on the degree of skin laxity. A moderate amount of skin laxity may require only an incision along the underarm crease. Greater skin laxity may require an incision concealed in the underside of the upper arm, starting from the underarm to just above the elbow.
The excess skin is then removed, and the arm skin is tightened and contoured. In some cases, a small drain is placed to collect fluid. Absorbable sutures are placed to close the incision. A light dressing is applied, and a special garment is worn to reduce swelling. Patients are free to go home the same day.
Arm lift surgery targets several common concerns, including:
By addressing these issues, arm lift surgery helps patients achieve firmer, more youthful-looking arms.
An arm lift not only enhances the appearance of the arms, creating a more toned and youthful contour, but can also boost confidence by allowing you to wear sleeveless clothing with pride. By addressing loose skin and localized fat, an arm lift provides a smoother, firmer appearance that complements your overall body silhouette. Additionally, it can improve comfort and mobility by eliminating the chafing or discomfort often associated with excess arm skin.
Ideal candidates for arm lift surgery are individuals who are at a stable weight and in good overall health. Patients should have realistic expectations and be non-smokers or willing to quit before and after surgery to support the healing process. This procedure is not recommended for those with uncontrolled medical conditions or those who cannot undergo general anesthesia. A consultation with Dr. Carpin will include a review of your medical history and a personalized treatment plan.
Patients typically experience pain, swelling, bruising, and occasional numbness. Patients usually require about one week free from work. Drains are typically removed after 1-3 weeks. It is important to avoid exercise and heavy lifting for about four to six weeks. Compression garments are worn during this time to support healing. Swelling will take several months to completely resolve, revealing your sculpted result. Scars initially are pink and can take one to two years to fade.
Patients who undergo arm lift surgery will notice a significant improvement in the appearance of their upper arms, with smoother contours and less sagging skin. Scars are designed to be concealed in the underarm or inside of the arm. These results are long-lasting, especially when paired with a stable, healthy weight and lifestyle. The improved appearance often boosts confidence and allows for more wardrobe options.
Dr. Carpin performs arm lifts in Houston, also serving patients in Friendswood, League City, Pearland, and Clear Lake.
Please schedule a consultation with Dr. Carpin to discuss if you are a surgical candidate, and to review the risks, benefits, alternatives, and expected outcomes of the procedure. Our entire team will work diligently to provide a seamless experience that translates into beautiful results.
Arm lift surgery costs from $7,000 to $9,000, depending on the type of procedure. A consultation with Dr. Carpin is needed to obtain a quote for surgery.
Yes, an arm lift can be combined with other surgical procedures. Some patients may choose to have an arm lift performed as part of a Mommy Makeover, during liposuction procedures, or along with other body-enhancing procedures. Dr. Carpin will discuss all of your options during your consultation.
Choosing a qualified plastic surgeon, such as Dr. Carpin, starts with research. It is important to research surgeons who specialize in arm lifts. They should be board-certified, have samples of their work, and also be able to provide you with references if requested. They should also answer your questions and be able to provide you with recommendations if you are not a suitable candidate for an arm lift.
When performed by an experienced plastic surgeon, an arm lift is a safe and effective procedure. However, similar to other invasive surgical procedures, there is a risk of bleeding, infection, scarring, and possibly an undesired aesthetic result. In consultation, Dr. Carpin will discuss all of the pros and cons of the procedure and advise you of other possible treatments as well.
Non-invasive procedures are typically less successful at tightening and toning hanging arm skin. Muscle training/exercise may help to tone the upper arm. Liposuction alone improves the arm contour in patients with minimal skin laxity. However, an arm lift is the best approach for addressing moderate to significant sagging skin.
Results from an arm lift can last for years. However, it is important to maintain your weight and exercise regularly as well. Dramatic weight gain and subsequent loss can undo the results of an arm lift. Body-weight exercises, as well as lifting light weights, can help maximize your results once cleared by Dr. Carpin.
