An Arm lift is a surgical procedure that reduces excess sagging arm skin, tightens and smoothes the supportive tissue that defines the upper arm and reduces localized pockets of fat.
This procedure is done in the OR under general anesthesia. Dr. Politis starts by making the incision. The incision length and pattern during this procedure depend on the amount and location of excess skin being removed. Incisions are generally placed on the inside of the arm and may extend from the underarm (axilla) to just above the elbow. Excess fat may be directly excised or treated with liposuction. The underlying supportive tissue is then tightened and reshaped with internal sutures. Finally, the skin is smoothed over the new contour of your arm.
You may experience temporary pain, soreness, and numbness of your forearm and upper arm and/or incision discomfort.
Maximum discomfort will occur the first few days.
You may feel tired for several weeks or months.
Take a nap with general anesthesia
You can expect to be healed in 2-3 weeks. The results of this procedure are long-lasting and semi-permanent! It corrects the current state of your arms but do not prevent future skin sagging that may occur due to aging or as a result of any additional weight gain. We recommend maintaining a healthy lifestyle to prolong your results.
Have all prescriptions filled prior to your surgery. Do not take any Aspirin, Plavix, Ibuprofen, Vitamin E, Fish Oil, Coenzyme Q10 or medications containing these compounds for 14 days before your procedure.
Begin your stool softener on the day prior to surgery to avoid constipation.
Wash with Hibiclens or antibacterial soap the night before surgery, as directed. Cleanse your belly button area with a Qtip and the antibacterial soap while showering.
Do not shave the surgical site within 2 days of surgery. This includes under arms for breast procedures and the pubic area for abdominal procedures. Hair may be trimmed with an electric clipper.
Avoid using body lotions, deodorants or perfumes on the day of surgery.
Do not wear any jewelry, piercings or contact lenses.
Refrain from vigorous exercise on the day before your surgery.
Have a regular meal on the evening before surgery, and drink plenty of water. Avoid alcoholic beverages on the evening before surgery. Do no eat or drink anything after midnight the night before your surgery.
You may shower 48 hours after your operation, but no soaking in a bathtub. Lukewarm water only.
Do not remove steri-strips. They may come off naturally at 2 weeks. When they start to peel off, they are easier to remove in the shower.
Keep incisions clean and inspect daily for signs of infection.
May pad incision with dressings/gauze for comfort.
Avoid exposing scars to sun for at least 12 months.
Always use a strong sunblock, if sun exposure is unavoidable (SPF 30 or greater).
Begin scar therapy approximately 2 weeks after your operation
Start walking as soon as possible, as this helps to reduce swelling and lowers the chance of blood clots.
Do not drive for two weeks and until you are no longer taking any pain medications (narcotics).
No lifting greater than 5 lbs. for 4 weeks.
Sleep with pillows under your arms for elevation during the first week after your procedure.
Avoid strenuous exercise and activities for approximately 6 weeks.
Return to work in 2-4 weeks.
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