A mini arm lift, or brachioplasty, is a procedure designed to reduce the size of the upper arm. It’s most often used to reduce excess skin and fatty tissue that may have accumulated due to aging, genetics, or weight loss. Mini arm lifts are also called limited or minimal incision brachioplasties because they use a smaller incision than the traditional arm lift. That’s why mini arm lifts are an excellent option for patients who don’t want long visible scars, and only have a small amount of excess tissue to remove. With a mini arm lift, excess skin and fat is removed through an incision made in the armpit. The benefits of a mini arm lift include improved appearance, reduced sagging, and an overall reduction in arm size. The procedure also helps to improve the shape of the arms and can provide additional support and lift to the skin. If you’re ready for firmer, more toned-looking arms, make an appointment with Dr. Joshua Korman. You can reach his offices in San Jose by calling (669) 666-9161, the Carmel office by calling (831) 244-8685 or Mountain View at (650) 671-2035.
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Before and After Photos
*Arm lift shown
About
Overall, a mini arm lift can be an effective way to reduce the size of your upper arms and improve their overall appearance. But, when considering arm lift surgery, it’s important to understand the differences between mini and full arm lift surgery. A mini arm lift is typically used for minor skin laxity and can be performed on an outpatient basis. This procedure involves a small horizontal incision near the armpit to remove excess skin, and usually requires minimal recovery time. In contrast, a full arm lift is a more comprehensive procedure that involves making larger incisions that stretch from the elbow to the armpit to remove more skin and tissue. It is typically used to address more severe skin laxity and is more invasive than a mini arm lift.(1) The recovery time for a full arm lift is usually longer than a mini arm lift, and typically involves a longer recovery period. Ultimately, the best option for a patient will depend on the amount of skin laxity they are dealing with and the desired outcome. A consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon is the best way to determine which procedure is best for your individual needs.
Benefits
Mini arm lifts are a great way to take years off your appearance without taking much time out of your life. Here are some of the benefits of this type of surgery:
- Tightening of the skin: A mini arm lift surgery can help to tighten the skin on the upper arm, giving you a more toned and youthful appearance.
- Improved Contour: By removing excess skin and fat, a mini arm lift can help to improve the contour of your arms, giving them a more toned and shapely appearance.
- Reduced Flabbiness: By removing excess skin and fat, a mini arm lift can help to reduce the flabbiness of your arms, allowing you to feel more comfortable in your own skin.
- Increased Confidence: By improving the appearance of your arms, a mini arm lift can help to boost your confidence and self-esteem.
- Minimal Downtime: The recovery time for a mini arm lift is much shorter than a full arm lift, so you can get back to your daily routine much quicker.
Candidates
It’s important to make sure that you’re able to undergo surgery safely if you’re considering this procedure. However, getting surgical clearance and contraindications for a mini arm lift surgery is not as intimidating as it might seem. With the right preparation, you can get your surgery with confidence.
The first step is to schedule a personal consultation with Dr. Korman! Dr. Korman will review your medical history and examine your physical condition, including any medications you are taking. You’ll also need to get a complete physical evaluation to clear you for surgery. This helps to determine your overall health and if you have any underlying medical conditions that could be a contraindication for surgery. If necessary, you may need additional diagnostics, such as a blood test or EKG, if necessary.
People with certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, and skin conditions, are generally not good candidates for this type of surgery. Patients should be at a stable, healthy weight, and non smokers or willing to quit in the weeks leading up to their surgery. Those with a weakened immune system or have poor wound healing ability may be advised to avoid mini arm lift surgery. With the right preparation and the help of Dr. Korman and his caring team, you can move forward with peace of mind and look forward to a successful procedure.
Personal Consultation
A mini arm lift surgery consultation is an important part of the arm lift process. During this consultation, you and Dr. Korman will discuss your goals and what kind of results you can expect from the procedure. You’ll also learn more about the type of anesthesia that will be used, the recovery time, and any potential risks associated with the procedure. Dr. Korman will take measurements to ensure that you are a good candidate for the procedure and will also discuss any pre-operative instructions to follow. Finally, we will review the costs associated with the procedure and provide any financing options that may be available. All of these topics are important to discuss, as they will help you understand what you can expect from the surgery and how to prepare for it. This consultation is an important step in the arm lift process, and Dr. Korman and his team will make sure that all of your questions are answered, and any concerns you may have are addressed.
Preparation
Preparing for any surgery can be an exciting and nerve-wracking time. To ensure the best possible outcome and a successful recovery, there are some things you can do to get ready for your mini arm lift. It’s important to get your body in the best shape possible. This means eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and getting plenty of rest. Additionally, abstain from smoking and drinking alcohol several weeks before your surgery.
You’ll also need to arrange a ride to and from the hospital since you won’t be able to drive yourself. It would also be beneficial to have a friend or family member stay with you for the first few days after your procedure, since your ability to move your arms will be limited. Finally, make sure to fill the prescriptions for the medications that Dr. Korman gives you in advance, so that you have them on hand after surgery. By following these pieces of advice, you can rest assured that you are well-prepared for your mini arm lift surgery.
Procedure
It is important to understand the specific steps involved in a mini arm lift surgery, in order to determine if it is the right procedure for you.
The first step of the mini arm lift surgery is anesthesia. A general anesthesia or a local anesthetic with sedation will be given to the patient in order to minimize discomfort and pain during the procedure. The second step is making the incision. During a minibrachioplasty, the incision is placed just above the armpit, and an elliptical piece of skin is removed.(2) If only a small amount of skin and fat needs to be removed, the incision will be relatively small, usually no more than four inches in length. If more skin and fat needs to be removed, the incision may be larger.
Once the excess skin and fat has been removed, the Dr. Korman will close the incision with sutures or staples in a way that minimizes tension and scarring. The fourth step is dressing the incision. He will then apply a sterile dressing to the incision site to help protect it from infection and promote healing.
You may need to wear a compression garment to help reduce swelling and support the arm area.
The procedure generally takes about two hours, depending on the extent of the surgery.
The next step in the mini arm lift procedure is the recovery period. During this time, the patient may experience some swelling, soreness, and bruising. The patient should follow instructions regarding how to care for the incision site, including avoiding strenuous activities during the recovery period.
Overall, a mini arm lift procedure is a relatively simple and safe procedure that can help improve the appearance of sagging skin on the upper arms.
Recovery
Overall, a mini arm lift procedure is a relatively simple and safe procedure that can help improve the appearance of sagging skin on the upper arms. It is important to remember to follow Dr. Korman’s instructions carefully during the recovery process in order to ensure the best possible results.
The recovery process after a mini arm lift surgery is not a one-size-fits-all process. Every individual will have a different recovery timeline, depending on the specifics of their surgery.
Immediately following the procedure, it is important to follow the instructions of your surgeon. Your arms may feel swollen, tender, and bruised. Ice packs can help reduce swelling, while pain medications can help manage discomfort.
You should avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities for the first few weeks after the surgery.
After the first few weeks, you may experience some numbness and itching, which should gradually go away as the healing process continues. Additionally, you should wear compression garments as directed by your surgeon.
Finally, it is important to keep in touch with your surgeon throughout the recovery process.You’ll return to Dr. Korman’s office for regularly scheduled follow-up appointments so that he can monitor your progress, and provide you with information about when it is safe to return to physical activities, and what activities to avoid.
Results
Patients can expect to see results shortly after the surgery, although the results will continue to improve over time. In general, it takes about two to four weeks for the swelling from the surgery to subside. After this point, patients can usually expect to see their final results. The scarring from the surgery should also improve over time, with the scars becoming less noticeable within three to six months.
Corresponding & Complementary Procedures
Mini arm lifts can be a great way to reduce small amounts of excess skin on the upper arms. Corresponding procedures are ones that are often done in conjunction with the mini arm lift, such as liposuction to reduce the amount of fat in the arms.
Laser treatments or other skin tightening procedures can also help reduce the appearance of excess skin and improve the skin’s texture. These treatments can help to minimize the appearance of any scars left from the surgery.
By combining corresponding and complementary procedures with a mini arm lift, the patient can achieve the best possible outcome. It is important to discuss these options with Dr. Korman before scheduling the mini arm lift so that a plan can be put in place to achieve the desired results.
Cost
Are you looking for a cost-effective way to improve the appearance of your arms? Look no further than mini arm lift surgery! This procedure can be completed in just one appointment, and the results can be life-changing.
At our practice, we understand the importance of finding a treatment that fits within your budget. That’s why we offer mini arm lift surgery at a competitive rate. We take pride in providing the best care and attention during your stay with us. Our team of professionals is highly trained and experienced, and they will make sure you are comfortable throughout the entire process.
If you’re considering mini arm lift surgery, contact us today! We’d be more than happy to discuss the procedure in more detail and answer any questions you may have. You can reach our San Jose offices by calling (669) 666-9161, our Carmel location at (831) 244-8685, or our Mountain View offices at (650) 671-2035. Don’t wait any longer – schedule your appointment and get the arms you’ve always dreamed of! And, to learn more about the other procedures and services that Dr. Korman offers, take a look at his blog!
FAQ
What is a mini arm lift?
A mini arm lift is a cosmetic procedure that can help to improve the appearance of the upper arms. The procedure involves removing excess skin and fat, and tightening the underlying tissue, to create a more toned look.
What results can I expect from a mini arm lift?
The results of a mini arm lift can vary depending on your individual situation, but generally, you should expect to see an improvement in the appearance and contour of your arms. This can include reduced sagging and a more toned look.
Is a mini arm lift painful?
After the procedure, you may experience some discomfort and a feeling of tightness in the area, but this should be minimal. Your doctor may give you a local anaesthetic to help with any discomfort.
How long does a mini arm lift take?
Depending on the extent of the procedure, a mini arm lift typically takes between 1-2 hours.
Is a mini arm lift a safe procedure?
Yes, a mini arm lift is a safe procedure when performed by a qualified and experienced professional. Your doctor will discuss any risks with you prior to the procedure.
How long does the recovery period last after a mini arm lift?
Generally, the recovery period lasts around 1-2 weeks, though you may experience some swelling and bruising for a few weeks after the procedure. Your doctor will provide you with instructions on how to care for your arms during this time.
References
- Chowdhry S, Elston JB, Lefkowitz T, Wilhelmi BJ. Avoiding the medial brachial cutaneous nerve in brachioplasty: an anatomical study. Eplasty. 2010;10(2010):e16. Accessed January 10, 2023. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2817572/
- Ferry AM, Chamata E, Dibbs RP, Rappaport NH. Avoidance and Correction of Deformities in Body Contouring. Seminars in Plastic Surgery. 2021;35(02):110-118. doi:10.1055/s-0041-1727207