U.S. adults tend to gain about 17lbs (8kg) between their late 20s and late 30s. When you add weight, it is often visible in your arms. Not only do they increase in size but they also become flabby.
Dealing with flabby arms can make you feel less confident. If you’re grappling with stubborn fat on your arms despite diet and exercise, you should consider arm liposuction. This cosmetic procedure helps eliminate excess fat for more sculpted and toned arms.
Want to know more about arm liposuction? Keep reading our comprehensive guide below.
What Is Arm Liposuction?
Arm liposuction is a cosmetic procedure that removes excess fat from the arms. The procedure is often performed on the upper arms – usually along the backside. However, sometimes the cosmetic surgeon can target the outside of the arm.
By eliminating unwanted fat deposits, arm liposuction reshapes your arms and improves your body’s appeal.
Who Is the Right Candidate for an Arm Liposuction?
The right candidate for arm liposuction is someone who meets specific criteria. This ensures that the procedure is both safe and effective. A good candidate should have:
- Adequate fat reserves with a minimum of about half an inch of fat in the upper arm region
- Good skin tone and elasticity
- Good overall health and realistic expectations
- No significant medical conditions that can hinder healing
- Willingness to maintain a healthy lifestyle post-surgery
- Be within 30% of their ideal weight
Talk to a plastic surgeon before arm liposuction to determine if you’re the ideal candidate.
Before Liposuction: Consultation and Preparation
Before undergoing liposuction, you should consult with a qualified plastic surgeon. During this meeting, the surgeon will discuss your goals and explain the procedure. Ensure you communicate openly about your desired outcomes.
To prepare for the surgery, you’re advised to:
- Complete pre-operative tests
- Stop taking blood-thinning medications
- Avoid smoking
- Avoid anti-inflammatory drugs and herbal supplements
- Stay hydrated
- Plan for transportation to and from the surgical facility
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing on the day of the surgery
For a safe and successful arm liposuction, ensure you follow your surgeon’s specific instructions.
During the Arm Liposuction Procedure
A lot of times stubborn fat on the arms can be resistant to diet and exercise. Arm liposuction is an effective way to achieve toned and sculpted arms. If you’re interested in the procedure, below is a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Anesthesia Administration
Your doctor will administer anesthesia to ensure a pain-free experience. Surgeons usually offer two options: general anesthesia or local anesthesia. General anesthesia ensures that you are completely asleep during the procedure.
However, local anesthesia numbs only the specific treatment area. Your surgeon will discuss these options with you and help you choose. Remember the use of general anesthesia carries potential risks.
This is why your surgeon may recommend a tumescent solution. It comprises saline, lidocaine (an anesthetic), and epinephrine (a vasoconstrictor). The solution helps numb the treatment area and reduces bleeding during and after surgery.
Step 2: Incision Placement
Once you’re anesthetized, the surgeon will make small, inconspicuous, and strategic incisions on your arms. These incisions are where a thin tube-cannula- will be inserted to suction out the excess fat.
Your surgeon will ensure careful placement of the incisions. This helps reduce scarring and allows for precise contouring.
Step 3: Fat Removal
After the cannula insertion, your surgeon will gently move it back and forth to break up and dislodge the fat cells. Once the fat cells are broken down, they’re suctioned out of your body using a vacuum device attached to the cannula.
The surgeon’s expertise is essential in ensuring symmetry and balance. It ensures you end up with natural and aesthetically pleasing arms.
Step 4: Closure
Once the fat removal is complete, your doctor will close the incisions using sutures, adhesives, or surgical tape. The choice of closure method will depend on your specific case and surgeon’s preference.
What to Expect After Liposuction?
After arm liposuction, you may experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort. But these side effects are temporary. With proper post-operative care, you can heal and get optimal results.
To enhance the healing journey, consider the following tips:
- Wearing compression garments as recommended to reduce swelling
- Engage in light activities and avoid strenuous exercise
- Take the prescribed medications
- Monitor for signs of infection
- Attend follow-up appointments
- Stay hydrated
- Maintain a proper diet, especially foods that support tissue repair and reduce inflammation
Surgery recovery after liposuction is a gradual process. You will need to be patient and committed to achieving the desired results.
Know About the Risks and Considerations of Arm Liposuction
Arm liposuction gives your arms a sleeker and more defined appearance. While the results can be rewarding, be aware of the potential surgery risks. Let’s look into them.
Temporary Bruising and Swelling
While bruising and swelling are temporary, they can be severe for some patients. Proper compression garments and following the surgeon’s advice can help lessen these effects.
Uneven Contouring
There’s a risk of uneven contouring – where one arm may appear slightly different from the other. You may also deal with loose skin. To achieve symmetrical results, choose a qualified and experienced cosmetic surgeon in Sacramento like Dr. Hause.
Numbness
The procedure involves the insertion of cannulas to suction out excess fat. This manipulation can affect nearby nerves, leading to temporary numbness.
Fluid Imbalance
Fluid imbalance is a potential risk of liposuction procedures. This is due to the removal of large volumes of fat and fluids, leading to shifts in the body’s fluid balance. Adequate hydration and monitoring by medical professionals can prevent these risks.
Achieve Beautiful Toned Arms With Liposuction in Sacramento
Arm liposuction presents an effective solution for those looking to remove stubborn fat and sculpt their arms. Choosing Sacramento Aesthetic Surgery goes beyond just aiming for a change in appearance. You’re selecting a practice with esteemed leadership.
Dr. Hause, a board-certified plastic surgeon, heads our team. His distinguished experience includes a notable tenure as past president of the Sacramento Society of Plastic Surgeons. This expertise and team dedication ensure you receive natural-looking results, guiding your transformation from flabby to fab arms.
Take the first step towards transformation and schedule a consultation today.
