What is a brachioplasty? Many patients who have recently undergone a major weight loss, or are starting to notice their skin is sagging with age, have come in asking how they can get rid of their “batwing.” While some over-the-counter products and non-surgical procedures can help, surgery is often needed to correct this stretched skin. In Houston brachioplasty, also known as Arm lift surgery, is a procedure used to tighten and remove excess skin under the upper arm, between the shoulder and the elbow. Board-certified plastic surgeons, Dr. Cara Downey and Dr. Jamal Bullocks, are experts in helping patients get the look they desire with body contouring procedures. For over 15 years, they have helped hundreds of men and women in Houston and its surrounding areas achieve the body shape and sleek silhouette they have always desired.
How much does an arm lift cost in Houston? The average cost of your brachioplasty in Houston typically ranges between $5,000 and $10,000. The total cost for your arm lift will depend on factors such as your surgeon’s fee, the location of your procedure, and other miscellaneous medical expenses. At Heights Plastic Surgery, we accept cash and all major credit cards. We are also happy to offer financing through CareCredit® for patients. Because an arm lift is typically more about cosmetic appearance and is less of a medical necessity, it is not covered by most insurance plans.
Am I a good candidate for a brachioplasty? At Heights Plastic Surgery, good candidates for a brachioplasty experience the following concerns: Loose, sagging skin around the upper arms A “batwing” effect on the upper arms Excess fat of the arms Ideal candidates for a brachioplasty are in good general health and have realistic expectations of their potential results. Patients will be required to be near or at their ideal body weight to qualify for an arm lift. The best way to determine if you are a good candidate for an arm lift is to schedule your private consultation with Dr. Downey or Dr. Bullocks.
What arm lift techniques can you perform? An arm lift is an outpatient procedure that typically takes about two to three hours to complete. To begin, an anesthetic will be administered to ensure you are comfortable and pain-free throughout your surgery. Dr. Downey or Dr. Bullocks will then perform a combination of any of the following arm lift techniques. The surgical techniques Dr. Downey or Dr. Bullocks will use during your arm lift will be discussed while developing your personalized treatment plan during your one-on-one consultation. Traditional. Dr. Downey or Dr. Bullocks removes excess fat, skin, and tissue from a long, continuous incision made from the armpit to the elbow. Extended. This technique uses an incision that extends towards the chest or the wrist, depending on which area has loose skin or requires contouring. This technique may be required for patients with a large amount of excess skin. Hidden. Also known as a limited-incision brachioplasty, a hidden or “mini” arm lift involves a small incision along the underarm crease and is often used for mild to moderate sagging. Liposuction. Liposuction is often used during an arm lift to reshape the arm of patients with good skin elasticity, little-to-no excess skin, and a small amount of fat.
What does recovery look like after a brachioplasty in Houston? Following a brachioplasty Houston patients will be fitted with compression garments. These garments will need to be worn for up to three months, as they aid in reducing your swelling and promoting your healing. Dr. Downey or Dr. Bullocks may also provide you with prescription medication that can help manage your pain. You will be able to resume taking full-body showers about two days following your arm lift. We ask that you avoid putting your arms above shoulder height for at least one to three weeks to ensure your incisions heal properly. Most patients return to work after about one to two weeks, depending on the nature of your job. Houston Brachioplasty Plastic Surgeons Dr. Downey or Dr. Bullocks will likely clear you to resume normal daily activities and mild exercise, including long walks, after about three weeks. We ask that you wait about six to eight weeks to resume more strenuous activities such as yoga and running. At six to eight weeks, your scars should begin to fade and continue to gradually improve over time. While you will see most results of your arm lift after just six weeks, ultimate results will not become apparent until all swelling subsides and the skin has settled into its new position.
