An arm lift, or brachioplasty, removes hanging skin from the upper arms ("bat wings") that result from aging or weight changes. Many people firm up their triceps through diet and rigorous exercise but still are frustrated by flapping flesh.

Dr. James R. Benjamin offers a newer treatment in the battle against arm flap called SmartLipo™, a combination of laser and liposuction, He will evaluate your upper arms to assess the amount and location of the fatty tissue as well as the degree of skin laxity. If you have relatively good skin tone, SmartLipo™ alone may be all that is recommended for contour improvement. While SmartLipo™ can be performed to reduce the amount of fatty tissue in the upper arms, there will be little if any skin tightening effect. Excess fat is generally only removed by SmartLipo™ from the inner aspect of the arm through small incisions located along the inner elbow and the posterior aspect of the armpit. If the skin is loose and has poor tone, an arm lift is the only procedure that will lead to a significant contour improvement. SmartLipo™ is commonly performed prior to Brachioplasty to maximize the aesthetic result.

You may be a candidate for an *upper arm lift* if you have sagging skin on the upper arms due to aging, genetics or weight loss. A reduction or elimination of excess skin from the upper arms is the intended result of an *upper arm lift.*

At the Renew Medical Surgical Center, Dr. James R. Benjamin makes an incision from the inside of the elbow to the armpit, trims away excess skin and sews the tightened area back together. SmartLipo™ also may be used to "vacuum" fat from trouble spots. You should be aware that a long scar is involved, but it will fade over time (not disappear) and is hidden on the inside of the arm.

If you have dropped a lot of weight and if fat is the only concern - not just excess skin - SmartLipo™ alone may be advised to minimize scarring. In addition to improving appearance, this procedure also can help treat rashes that develop due to excess upper-arm skin sticking to the armpit and chest. Slimmer arms also boost mobility in some people, allowing you to increase exercise.

If you are interested in any cosmetic procedure, please feel free to get your questions answered by contacting Dr. James R. Benjamin. Please call us today to schedule your complimentary consultation.