The Goal of an Arm Lift

Dr. Shuster’s objective, with years of experience performing arm lift surgery, is to give his patients the most improved appearance possible. He believes that an arm lift isn’t just about slimming and contouring the arms; it’s also about ensuring the resulting scar is minimized when the arms are exposed.

What is an Arm Lift?

An arm lift (brachioplasty) is a surgical procedure in which Dr. Shuster tightens the upper arms and removes excess skin, restoring a more youthful and attractive physique. The patient no longer needs to feel self-conscious when raising their arms or wearing sleeveless clothing and swimwear. Arm lift surgery typically takes around 2 hours to perform, and most clients can expect to resume work within 7-10 days.

Dr. Shuster’s Approach

Dr. Shuster has a natural and intuitive understanding of anatomy bolstered by years of training and experience. His innovative approach provides clients with the results that have eluded them during months or years of working out at the gym. Traditional arm lift methods place the incision on the back of the arm, where the patient will never see it. Unfortunately, anyone standing behind them will see it. Because of this, Dr. Shuster doesn’t believe this approach will allow most women to feel confident in a sleeveless gown or blouse.

That’s why his technique places the scar on the inner part of the arm facing the body so that the resulting mark is as inconspicuous as possible during routine arm movements. He will create a well-placed incision in the natural groove along the inner aspect of the arm and will then remove any excess skin and soft tissue. This allows him to both reposition the skin and improve the support of the underlying soft tissue for an optimal outcome. Dr. Shuster finishes the procedure with his triple-layer closure method, helping the resulting scar to fade very well over time.

I had an arm lift and a breast lift with Dr. Shuster. The results are spectacular. I have never had better medical care.

Robyn L.

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Before & After

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Who is a Good Candidate for Brachioplasty?

Good candidates for brachioplasty are unhappy with the way skin hangs from their upper arms. This hanging skin may have developed as a result of weight loss, aging, genetics, or a combination of these — and it does not respond to exercise. No matter how hard you hit the gym to lift weights, the skin will not “shrink back” to the contour of the arm. Other candidacy factors include:

  • Good overall health
  • Realistic expectations of what brachioplasty can achieve
  • Adequate dedication of time for recovery
  • Willingness to follow aftercare instructions
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Dr. Shuster is a true artist! I have had two surgeries with him, and would never consider using another surgeon. From your consultation to surgery and recovery, he guides through each step. His staff is fantastic and available to you should you need anything at all! I couldn’t be more happy with my results!

Lisa M.

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Planning for an Arm Lift

As part of your consultation, we will make sure you know what to expect during the recovery. Dr. Shuster and our nurse educators will provide you with details and instruction. Dr. Shuster advises his patients to be ‘divas’ for several days and to have someone to stay with them and assist them during the initial recovery period. Most patients can resume driving one week after surgery. If you're looking to book an arm lift in Hollywood, FL, Dr. Shuster is the doctor for the job. 

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How is an Arm Lift Done?

Dr. Shuster performs all of his surgeries in the hospital, as he believes that this is the most appropriate setting for surgery. An arm lift requires general anesthesia to ensure patient comfort and well-being. The anesthesia will be administered by the anesthesia team that has worked with him for years.

Dr. Shuster’s method for brachioplasty focuses on the groove along the inner aspect of the arm. He removes skin and underlying fat to create a tight, smooth contour. In addition to removing skin, Dr. Shuster also tightens the deeper tissues, as he has found that this achieves the best results from a brachioplasty.

The arm lift procedure alone typically takes two hours, but this duration can vary depending on the steps that need to be taken and whether other procedures are being performed simultaneously.

Arm lift FAQs:

Can you combine an arm lift with other procedures?

Is an arm lift painful?

Will there be any scars after an arm lift?

Does an arm lift require general anesthesia?

Can you combine an arm lift with other procedures?

Yes, it may be possible to have other procedures performed at the same time. Some patients incorporate liposuction or other body contouring procedures; it will depend on the individual case. A consultation with Dr. Shuster is necessary to make this determination.

Is an arm lift painful?

You won’t feel anything during the procedure itself because you’ll be under general anesthesia. Once you wake up and the effect of the anesthetic fades, you will likely experience soreness and some discomfort. Dr. Shuster will have previously discussed pain management with you. In addition, you can reduce swelling and discomfort by placing your arms up on a pillow as you heal. Patients are able to tolerate post-operative brachioplasty discomfort quite well. Soreness and discomfort fade during the first week after surgery.

Will there be any scars after an arm lift?

Yes, brachioplasty leaves a scar. However, Dr. Shuster’s method dispenses with the traditional incision location on the back of the arm and instead places it in the natural crease on your inner arm. This location is much less obvious, and the scar will generally be hidden, especially when your arms are down at your sides.

Does an arm lift require general anesthesia?

Yes, an arm lift requires general anesthesia to ensure your comfort and well-being. The anesthesia will be administered by a qualified professional at a nearby accredited surgical center.

Some people are nervous about general anesthesia, especially if it is their first time having surgery. Dr. Shuster and our team will make sure all of your questions are answered and discuss any concerns you may have. We want you to feel confident as you complete this journey.

Results From Your Arm Lift

Initial results are visible immediately after surgery. You will see a difference because the flap of hanging skin will be gone. Swelling will be present until the area heals. Much of the swelling will go down after 2-3 weeks and then more within 4-6 weeks, with more subtle swelling continuing for up to six months. While you will enjoy a good result after a couple of weeks, keep these swelling timelines in mind and know that your results will continue to improve as you heal.

Results from an arm lift are considered permanent. You can maintain your new sculpted arm shape with weight lifting, healthy eating, and by maintaining a stable body weight. Of course, no one can stop the aging process or the cumulative effect of gravity. Like the rest of your skin, the skin on your upper arms will change as time passes. You may gradually notice some degree of loss of elasticity in the upper arms, but it will be far less pronounced than it would be had you not undergone brachioplasty.

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Why Choose Dr. Shuster?

Shuster Plastic Surgery is a boutique practice that places a focus on personalized attention, outstanding results, and uncompromised. Dr. Shuster not only offers honesty, expertise, and beautiful results; he also takes excellent care of you before, during, and after your procedure. He will make you comfortable and listen closely to what you want. As a third-generation, board-certified face, breast, and body plastic surgeon who has been in practice for 25 years, Dr. Shuster offers a truly exceptional patient experience. We encourage you to research to learn more about Dr. Shuster and welcome you to contact us for a consultation.

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