Sculpted. Toned. Firm.

The upper arms are a common problem area as we age. Even with regular weight training and exercise, the soft tissue on the upper arms becomes lax. Fat can also accumulate in this area, resulting in loose skin that moves whenever you do. When this occurs, an arm lift with Dr. Wingate can give you back your toned, slim, and youthful arms by removing the excess fat and skin. With an arm lift, Dr. Wingate can:

  • Remove extra skin on the upper arms
  • Tighten and reshape lax tissue
  • Excise small deposits of unwanted fat
  • Sculpt toned and defined arms
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Traditional Arm Lift

The classic approach to the arm lift is also the most common. With this approach, Dr. Wingate will make an incision that extends from your elbow to your armpit. Through that lengthy opening, he can remove a substantial amount of excess skin and fat.

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Short-Scar Arm Lift

With this discreet technique, Dr. Wingate can hide the incision entirely in your armpit. Through that opening, he can remove a small amount of excess skin and fat from the inner arms. In general, this approach is best for our patients who want to correct minor excess skin on their arms.

Limited Incision Arm Lift

This approach involves an incision that runs from the middle of the upper arm to the armpit. It’s best for patients who need to address a moderate degree of sagging skin.

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The Surgery  

Whether you’re having a traditional, short-scar, or limited incision arm lift, Dr. Wingate will perform your surgery using general anesthesia. Once the medication has taken effect, he will create the incision.

Through that opening, Dr. Wingate will tighten loose tissues, trim away excess skin, and contour the area. Once he has shaped your beautiful new arms, he will close the incisions with care to minimize the resulting scars.

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The Recovery + Results  

Most arm lifts involve a recovery period of one to two weeks. Your new contours will be immediately apparent but obscured by swelling and bruising. It can take up to six months for all swelling to subside and your results to be considered final.

Arm Lift Frequently Asked Questions

Can I combine my arm lift with another procedure?

Yes. Arm lifts are frequently performed alongside other body contouring procedures such as liposuction or abdominal surgery. Addressing multiple areas together can help create a more balanced overall result.

Who is a good candidate for an arm lift?

Candidates are typically individuals who have loose or hanging skin along the upper arms that has not improved with exercise. Stable weight and good overall health are also important considerations before surgery.

How long does swelling last after an arm lift?

Swelling is most noticeable during the first few weeks after surgery and gradually improves as healing continues. Subtle changes in contour may continue for several months as the tissues settle.

When can I return to exercise after an arm lift?

Light daily movement is encouraged early in recovery, but strenuous upper-body exercise should wait until healing is further along. Your surgeon will guide you on when it is safe to resume full activity.

Will my arms look natural after surgery?

The procedure focuses on creating smooth contours that match the natural proportions of your body. Careful reshaping helps ensure the arms appear toned rather than overly tight.

Do I need to wear compression garments after an arm lift?

Patients are often asked to wear supportive compression garments during the early stages of healing. These garments help support the tissues and assist with swelling control.

Can an arm lift remove stretch marks?

Stretch marks located within the skin that is removed during surgery may be eliminated. Marks outside that area may remain but often appear less noticeable once the skin is tightened.

How long do arm lift results typically last?

The improved contour is long-lasting once excess skin has been removed. Maintaining a stable weight helps preserve the slimmer appearance of the arms.

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The Wingate Difference

At Wingate Plastic Surgery, your care comes first—always. Led by board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Nicholas Wingate, our team is committed to providing personalized attention and trusted guidance at every step. Choosing the right plastic surgeon is essential, and it’s our privilege to deliver a seamless experience and exceptional results you can feel confident about.

Schedule an Appointment

Call our office today to schedule a consultation and start planning your arm lift procedure. We proudly serve patients in Malvern, West Chester, and Wayne, PA.

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