Getting an Arm Lift in Milwaukee: What You Need to Know

There are many reasons why one might have extra skin on their arms.

Sometimes, the skin between the elbow and underarm area will begin to sag as a consequence of aging. Other times, one may simply be predisposed to have excess skin in that area. In further cases, a person may have lost a considerable amount of weight, causing areas of their skin to hang loose where fat once was.

Regardless of the reason for the excess skin, many find it to be unsightly or uncomfortable. As a result, some seek to remove this skin in a procedure called an “arm lift.”

An arm lift, or brachioplasty, reshapes and contours the arm by removing excess skin and fat. 

If you’re seeking an arm lift in the Milwaukee, Wisconsin area, there are a few things you should know before your first meeting with a plastic surgeon. In this article, we’re going to break down what you should expect from the procedure before, during, and after recovery — and finally, how to find the best plastic surgeon for an arm lift in Milwaukee.

What is an arm lift?

While we’ve already covered the general idea of an arm lift, it’s important to learn the specifics before undergoing the procedure.

Brachioplasty is an outpatient procedure lasting about 2 to 3 hours. At the start of this time, an incision is made in an area predetermined to leave minimal noticeable scarring. From there, excess skin and fat is removed, which will occasionally include liposuction if the surgeon deems it appropriate.

Finally, the surgery is completed, the incision is closed, and the patient is allowed to recover.

How should I prepare for an arm lift?

The best preparation is finding the right surgeon. 

We’ve previously covered how to find the best plastic surgeons in areas like Milwaukee. Our arm lift-specific advice is similar: the keys to finding the best plastic surgeon for arm lifts in Milwaukee are accreditation, communication, and trust.

To summarize these points, accreditation is the process through which plastic surgeons and facilities prove they meet and exceed industry standards.

Checking accreditation for a plastic surgeon is easy; simply look to websites like Healthgrades, which show not only a surgeon’s education but their certifications as well. For example, the Healthgrades page on Milwaukee-based surgeon Dr. Mark Bosbous shows his entire educational history, his certification, and an average rating of five stars from over one hundred reviewers.

Next, you must communicate with your surgeon about your desires for an arm lift. Talk to your surgeon about why you are getting an arm lift. Are you concerned about the look of your arms? Are you having hygiene issues? These are questions that could impact your procedure, and it’s important that you discuss all of your specific desires before undergoing your procedure.

You should be comfortable talking to your surgeon. As surgery can involve a lot of back-and-forth, you should be able to express your interests to your surgeon and feel that you are heard. If you do not feel you are being listened to, it’s time to seek a different surgeon.

If you’re still seeking out a plastic surgeon for your arm lift, there are numerous websites like the aforementioned Healthgrades that gather testimonials from previous patients. Do your research and talk with your surgeon and their team — from there, you’re bound to find success!

What does recovery from an arm lift look like?

Your arms will be very delicate for the first few days following your procedure.

At the beginning, you will need to keep your arms elevated and wear compression garments. These reduce swelling and assist in the healing process.

However, recovery is usually relatively quick, with patients able to return to work and light activity after just over a week, and their normal lives after only three or four weeks.

Recovery time will change based on the exact needs of your arm lift. Thankfully, a talented surgeon like Dr. Mark Bosbous will walk you through the whole recovery process, allowing your peace of mind as you return to your everyday life.

Conclusion

If you’re considering an arm lift in or around Milwaukee, get in contact with our team. We would be more than happy to schedule a consultation and create a surgery plan designed around your needs.