The Challenge
For many weight loss patients, the arms are often the first area they want to work on. Loose, sagging, and stretched-out skin can be uncomfortable and unsightly, especially when the arms are elevated. An arm lift can create a sculpted upper arm that complements your figure and your wardrobe.
The Dr. Shuster Approach
Dr. Shuster’s objective with the arm lift, or brachioplasty, is to give his patients the confidence to wear sleeveless dresses, tops, and anything in their wardrobe comfortably. He believes that an arm lift is not just about slimming and contouring the arms, but it’s also equally important that the resulting scar is not noticeable when the arms are exposed. Because of this, Dr. Shuster performs the arm lift by making a well-placed incision in the natural groove along the inner aspect of the arm which will lead to as inconspicuous a scar as possible. He will then remove any excess skin and soft tissue from the arm. This allows Dr. Shuster to both reposition the skin and improve the support of the underlying soft tissue for the absolute best outcome. He then finishes the procedure with his triple layer closure method, helping the resulting scar to fade very well over time.
Yesterday’s Arm Lift
Traditional arm lift methods place the incision on the back of the arm so the patient will never see it. Unfortunately, anyone standing behind them will. Dr. Shuster doesn’t think that this approach will get many women into 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 least visible during routine arm movements.
“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.
A Few Facts About Arm Lifts
- Arm lifts usually take about two hours.
- Dr. Shuster’s arm lift method results in the least noticeable scar possible.
- Most patients can usually return to work after one week.
The Dr. Shuster Difference
Talent
Dr. Shuster is a third-generation, board-certified plastic surgeon. His expertise, attention to detail, and patient-centered approach provide a highly personalized experience and unsurpassed results.
Experience
20 years of experience is evident in every arm lift. His degree of detail, subtlety, and naturalness makes the arm lift noticeable but never obvious.
Quality Results
Like all the surgical procedures Dr. Shuster performs, it is beautiful results that have gained him a reputation for excellence throughout Florida. To see his results for yourself, please visit the gallery.
A Personalized Approach
During the consultation, Dr. Shuster will evaluate the severity of drooping skin and your personal goals to develop an individualized plan to best sculpt your arms.
Artistry
Dr. Shuster is not only an exceptional surgeon, he is a photographer and artist.
The Team
Dr. Shuster performs his surgeries at Memorial Regional Hospital South. His team has been with him for over 14 years and he has chosen them based on their excellence and expertise.
Results
What You Need to Know
What is an arm lift?
A brachioplasty is a surgical procedure Dr. Shuster uses to tighten the upper arm and remove excess skin. This allows Dr. Shuster to both the re-drape the skin in this area and improve the support of the underlying soft tissue. The result is a much improved contour to the upper arm, especially when the arm is raised.
Who is a good candidate for brachioplasty?
Good candidates for brachioplasty are unhappy with the way skin hangs from their upper arms. You may have developed this hanging skin as a result of weight loss, aging, or genetics (or a combination). This type of excess skin does not respond to exercise; not matter how strictly you hit the gym to lift weights, the skin will not shrink back to the contour of the arm. Instead, for appropriate candidates, plastic surgery for the skin of the upper arm, can offer the best cosmetic results.
Other candidacy factors include:
- You are in generally good overall health
- You have realistic expectations of what brachioplasty can achieve
- You are ready to learn about the potential side effects and the benefits of the procedure
- You can dedicate time to a brief surgical recovery and follow all the aftercare instructions
The best way to find out if you are a candidate is to meet with Dr. Shuster in a one-on-one consultation.
Where are arm lift procedures done?
Dr. Shuster is on the medical staffs of Memorial Regional Hospitals in Hollywood, Florida and The Mount Sinai Medical Center in Miami Beach. With an emphasis on safety, Dr. Shuster performs all of his surgeries in the hospital. He has a consistent team of professionals, some have been with him for 14 years. Dr. Shuster feels that the hospital setting is the most appropriate setting for surgery.
How long does an arm lift take?
The procedure alone typically takes 2 hours. This duration can vary depending on the steps taken in your procedure and whether other procedures are being performed simultaneously.
We’ll make sure you know what to plan for as part of your consultation and surgical planning. You will need to arrange to have someone come with you to surgery and drive you home, so we can make sure they know how long they will be waiting on your surgical day. You will also need to build in time to get checked in. You will stay under our supervision for a little while after surgery as well, until Dr. Shuster clears you to go home.
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 being anesthetized this way. 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.
How is the arm lift procedure done?
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 and smooth contour. In doing this it is not just the skin he removes. Dr. Shuster has found that the best results from a brachioplasty occur when the deeper tissues are tightened as well.
How long will the results of an arm lift last?
The results of an arm lift are considered permanent. The skin that is removed is gone for good. You can maintain your new sculpted arm shape with weight lifting, healthy eating, and 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 the years pass. 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.
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.
Is an arm lift painful?
You won’t feel anything during the procedure itself because you will be placed under general anesthesia. Once you wake up and the effect of the anesthetic fades, you will likely experience soreness and mild discomfort. Dr. Shuster will have previously discussed over-the-counter or prescription pain management with you. In addition, you can reduce swelling and discomfort by placing your arms up on a pillow as you heal. Most patients are able to tolerate post-operative brachioplasty discomfort quite well. Soreness and discomfort fade during the first week after surgery.
What is the recovery time for an arm lift?
Recovery timelines vary by individual, but typically include:
- Delaying a shower for 2-3 days
- Wearing supportive arm garments for several weeks
- Getting up and walking around gently as soon as you are comfortable doing so
- Delaying strenuous exercise and activity for 4-6 weeks
- Staying home from work for 7-10 days
We will provide specific and individualized aftercare instructions, taking into account the type of job you have, your daily activities, and your exercise routines.
What is the aftercare once an arm lift has been done?
Dr. Shuster will provide you with specific care guidelines as well as a compression garment that allows the arms to solidify their new contours to ensure optimal recovery. You will be scheduled with one or more follow-up appointments so that Dr. Shuster can confirm proper healing and keep up with your progress.
When will I notice results of an arm lift?
The 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 swelling will go down after 2-3 weeks, then more within 4-6 weeks, with subtle swelling continuing for up to 6 months. While you will be seeing a good result after a couple weeks, keep these swelling timelines in mind and know that your results will continue to improve as you heal.
Can you combine the arm lift with other procedures?
Yes, it may be possible to have other procedures performed in the same appointment. A consultation with Dr. Shuster is necessary to make this determination. Some patients are able to incorporate liposuction or other body contouring procedures. It really depends on the individual case.
Schedule A Consultation For An Arm Lift in Hollywood, FL
If you are interested in learning more about the Arm Lift or if you wish to determine whether you are a candidate for the procedure, give Dr. Bernard A. Shuster a call at (954) 961-5500 today. You can also fill out the appointment request form in our contact page. Our practice look forward to serving you!
