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Arm Lift Techniques: Incisions Methods for Different Needs By James E. Murphy, MD on February 09, 2015

A woman outdoors on a summer dayAt Murphy Plastic Surgery & Medical Spa, we proudly serve the greater Reno area, offering advanced surgical and non-surgical treatments to enhance the appearance. Body contouring surgery is especially popular for tightening and toning loose skin and flab, making patients look far better as a result.

The arm lift (brachioplasty) is one such body contouring procedure that can make a great difference. Let's consider the various ways that it can be performed to help patients.

About Arm Lift Surgery

Arm lift surgery is a procedure that is performed in order to improve the overall appearance of the shoulder area and the tricep area of the arm. With major weight loss and advanced age, this part of the arm can droop, sag, and appear flabby. The arm lift surgery is an ideal way of creating a more toned and trim appearance for the upper arms, removing excess fat and stretched skin.

The arm lift can be adjusted to the needs of the patients based on their situation. The techniques below give a general idea about the versatility that surgeons have when performing an arm lift.

Traditional Arm Lift Incisions

During a traditional arm lift, the incision begins in the arm pit area and then extends toward the elbow along the underside of the arm and tricep. Through this incision, excess tissue is removed and underlying structures revised. The skin is then pulled tighter and sutured together for a more appealing appearance.

This traditional arm lift is ideal for many patients who seek out this body contouring procedure.

Minimal Incision Arm Lift Surgery Technique

During a minimal incision arm lift, the incision is hidden entirely in the arm pit, with all tissue removal and adjustments done in the arm pit alone. Since the incision is limited in size and location in this form of surgery, it's most ideal for people who require very minimal body sculpting and contouring needs.

Arm lift Using Liposuction Alone

If a patient only has a little bit of fat or flab in the shoulder and tricep area, the ideal treatment option may be liposuction alone. Liposuction involves the use of careful suction to remove specific pockets of fat. By removing some problematic pockets of fat, the shoulder and tricep area may look more toned and trim.

Liposuction is a common part of all body contouring procedures, including traditional arm lift surgery. The use of arm lift alone for surgery tends to be ideal for patients who have tried to tone their arms but exercise and a good diet still have no effect on just a bit of fat in the upper arms.

Extended Arm Lift Surgery Incision

Extended arm lift surgery is performed on people who have lost a considerable amount of weight through natural means or through bariatric surgery. This is often part of a total body lift to address massive weight loss.

During an extended tummy tuck, the incision tends to begin at the side of the chest, extended up into the arm pit and down to the elbow along the underside of the arm. This allows major revision and body sculpting to be achieved, which is necessary when a person has lost a considerable amount of weight.

Contact Murphy Plastic Surgery & Medical Spa

To learn more about arm lift surgery and your many options for advanced body contouring and sculpting, be sure to contact our cosmetic skin care and plastic surgery center today. We at Murphy Plastic Surgery & Medical Spa will be more than happy to answer all of your questions and address your concerns in greater detail.

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Dr. James Murphy

Murphy Plastic Surgery & Medical Spa

Dr. James Murphy is a highly trained, board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon who has been in practice 25 years. He serves patients throughout Reno and Lake Tahoe and is affiliated with several prestigious organizations, including: 

  • American Society of Plastic Surgeons 
  • American College of Surgeons 
  • American Medical Association 
  • Reno Surgical Society

Schedule your consultation today by contacting us online or call (775) 322-3446. Se habla español. If you would like to text us during business hours, we can respond via text to you. You can also send pictures to us with questions.

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