Stretch marks can be a persistent concern for individuals who have experienced significant weight fluctuations. When considering body contouring procedures such as an upper arm lift, also commonly known as brachioplasty, many patients wonder whether the surgery can remove or improve the appearance of stretch marks. If you are considering surgical contouring to enhance the appearance of your upper arms, explore the following insights designed to help you feel informed and set realistic expectations for results.
Understanding Brachioplasty
An upper arm lift or brachioplasty surgery is designed to remove excess skin and fat from the upper arms, creating a more toned and contoured appearance. This procedure is particularly popular among individuals who have experienced significant weight loss and are left with loose, sagging skin in the upper arm region.
Does an Arm Lift Remove Stretch Marks?
While an arm lift surgery is primarily performed for contouring purposes, it can help reduce the appearance of stretch marks depending on their location. Here’s how:
- Stretch Marks Within the Excision Area: If stretch marks are located in the excess skin that is surgically removed, they will be eliminated along with the tissue. This typically applies to stretch marks situated on the inner part of the upper arm where skin removal is most significant.
- Stretch Marks Outside the Excision Area: If stretch marks are located in areas that are not removed during surgery, they will remain, though they may appear less noticeable due to the tightening of the skin.
Following brachioplasty, patients may notice a gradual softening of remaining stretch marks as collagen production in the treatment area increases during recovery. Additionally, keep the skin well moisturized and following post-surgical care instructions can enhance healing and improve skin texture.
Who is a Good Candidate for an Arm Lift?
Brachioplasty is best suited for individuals who:
- Have excess loose skin on the upper arms due to weight loss or aging.
- Are at a stable weight and do not anticipate significant fluctuations.
- Have realistic expectations about the procedure’s ability to improve but not completely eliminate stretch marks.
- Are in good overall health and do not smoke, as smoking can affect healing.
Realistic Expectations for Skin Texture Improvement
While upper arm surgery can reduce stretch marks within the excised skin area, it is not a dedicated treatment for stretch marks. Patients should have realistic expectations and understand that:
- The primary goal of an arm lift surgery is to remove excess skin and reshape the arm, not to address stretch marks specifically.
- The remaining skin after surgery may still have some stretch marks, but their appearance can improve due to the overall tightening effect.
- A non-surgical skin resurfacing treatment may be recommended for individuals seeking additional improvements in skin texture after healing from brachioplasty.
Schedule an Upper Arm Lift Consultation
If you’re considering an arm lift and stretch marks are a concern, the best approach is to schedule an appointment with a surgeon experienced in body sculpting procedures. Conveniently located to serve Hollywood, West Hollywood and Beverly Hills, our board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Roger Tsai is a trusted body contouring expert—contact Roger Tsai, MD today to schedule a consultation for arm lift surgery.