What Causes Excess Arm Skin?
The upper arms are one of the first areas to show ageing and weight changes. Skin laxity in this area — often called “bat wings” — results from ageing, significant weight loss, or genetics. The skin on the inner upper arm is naturally thin, making it particularly prone to sagging.
Exercise can tone the underlying biceps and triceps muscles, but cannot tighten loose skin. When excess skin is the primary concern, an arm lift (brachioplasty) is the surgical solution.
The Arm Lift Procedure
Dr. Saba Al Marush performs arm lift surgery by removing the excess skin and fat from the inner upper arm. The incision runs from the armpit to the elbow along the inner arm. For patients with excess limited to the upper portion of the arm, a shorter incision confined to the armpit area may be possible.
If excess fat is present alongside loose skin, Dr. Saba combines liposuction with skin excision for optimal contouring.
Ideal Candidates
- Significant loose, hanging skin on the upper arms
- Stable weight — not currently losing weight
- Good overall health
- Realistic expectations about scarring (the inner arm scar is the trade-off for a tighter arm contour)
Recovery
- Compression sleeves worn for four to six weeks
- Arms elevated when resting for the first week to minimise swelling
- No heavy lifting for four to six weeks
- Return to desk work in one to two weeks
- Scars begin red and gradually fade to pale lines over 12 to 18 months
Scar Management
The inner arm scar is the most visible trade-off of brachioplasty. Dr. Saba uses layered closure techniques and recommends silicone scar sheets post-operatively to produce the thinnest, flattest scar possible. The scar is positioned along the inner arm, hidden from front and back views.
Consult with Dr. Saba Al Marush about arm lift surgery.