What is Arm Reduction Surgery?

Arm Reduction Surgery is any surgical procedure which addresses concerns affecting the size and shape of the arms.

There are several common concerns which can affect the upper arms:

• Loose skin
• Excess and stubborn fat
• Skin concerns, such as stretch marks and cellulite

The two most popular options to address these concerns are Arm Lift and Arm Liposuction. When performed as standalone procedures, they address different concerns, but they can also be combined for a more comprehensive surgery. Understanding the difference between Arm Lift and Arm Liposuction is crucial to determining which is the best procedure to address your concerns.

Cadogan Clinic has brought together a team of the UK’s leading Body Contouring Consultant Surgeons, who are all highly experienced in performing arm sculpting procedures.

Arm Lift vs. Arm Liposuction?

Arm Lift and Arm Liposuction are both arm slimming procedures which typically address the upper arms to treat different concerns.

What is an Arm Lift?

Arm Lift surgery, also known as a Brachioplasty, is primarily an arm skin removal surgery.

During an Arm Lift, an incision is made from the armpit to the elbow, before excess skin is removed, using a technique called skin excision. The tissue is then repositioned and the incisions closed resulting in slim, toned appearance to the arms.

Arm Lift surgery typically takes 2-3 hours and is performed under general anaesthetic.

What is Arm Liposuction?

Arm Sculpting Liposuction (sometimes abbreviated to Arm Lipo) is an arm fat removal procedure which involves extracting excess fat from the upper arms.

During an Arm Liposuction procedure, small incisions are made in the areas where stubborn or excess fat is present before a specialist cannula is inserted to remove the unwanted fat cells, which are present between the skin and the muscle.

Although Traditional Liposuction is suitable for arm fat reduction, many surgeons recommend either Laser Liposuction or VASER Liposuction, as these alternative types of Liposuction deliver additional skin-tightening benefits. These are especially advantageous in the upper arms, as the skin here is thinner and stretchier, so prone to sagging.

Depending on the extent of the procedure, Arm Liposuction usually takes up to two hours to complete and is carried out under general anaesthetic.

Combined Arm Lift and Arm Liposuction

For a comprehensive arm sculpting procedure, surgical Arm Lift and Arm Liposuction can be performed in a single procedure, to maximise the benefits.

A combined Arm Lipo and Lift procedure involves performing Liposuction first, before removing the excess skin. This tackles multiple concerns and achieves a complete rejuvenation of the upper arms.

Combining Arm Lift and Arm Lipo also optimises the results of each surgical technique. As the skin in the upper arms is thinner and more flexible than in other parts of the body, simply removing the fat can risk leaving sagging skin. Employing arm skin removal allows this to be addressed within the same procedure.

Arm Liposuction with skin tightening is carried out under general anaesthetic and typically takes 3-4 hours to complete.

Arm Lift and Arm Liposuction can also be combined with complementary body contouring procedures such as Cellulaze and BodyTite to enhance the final results.

Arm Lift vs Arm Liposuction: Differences in Results

Although both Arm Lift and Arm Liposuction improve the contours and definition of the upper arms, there are differences in the results they can achieve. It is essential to understand these differences to determine which arm reduction procedure best suits your needs.

Arm Lift Results

Arm Lift specifically targets loose skin and concerns related to skin texture that affect the upper arms.

Arm Lift results will include:

• Reduced excess skin, addressing bingo wings, improving physical comfort and achieving slimmer, proportionate upper arms
• Smoother and more toned skin texture and quality

Arm Liposuction Results

Arm Liposuction is a procedure that specifically targets excess and stubborn fat in the upper arms.

Arm Liposuction results will include:

• Reduced excess fat to improve bodily proportions and create a more toned and defined arm contour

Arm Lift vs. Arm Lipo: Differences in Recovery

Arm Lift and Arm Liposuction recovery times depend on the exact procedure that has been performed, the extent of the procedure, and various personal influences that your surgeon will take into account.

Generally speaking, recovery following Arm Reduction Surgery is straightforward, although you will need to consider having slightly limited mobility in your arms for the first few days.

Cadogan Clinic has a meticulous recovery and aftercare protocol for all patients who have undergone a surgical Arm Lift or Arm Liposuction procedure.

• All patients have an initial follow-up appointment 7-10 days after their procedure with our specialist surgical nurses to check their incisions, remove any sutures and discuss their initial recovery
• A second follow-up appointment happens around six weeks after your Arm Reduction Surgery with your surgeon to discuss your results and recovery
• You will have 24/7 contact with our specialist nursing team by phone, if required, for any assistance you need
• It is essential that you follow your surgeon’s recovery and aftercare instructions closely in order to achieve the best outcomes and reduce the risk of complications from arising

Arm Lift Recovery

• Swelling and bruising – After an Arm Lift, it is normal to have some swelling and bruising, which usually subsides within the first three weeks
• Downtime - Depending on your daily activities and job, you will likely need to take up to ten days off work to rest during your initial healing period
• Garments - Your surgeon will ask you to wear compression garments which cover your upper arms to aid healing and reduce swelling for up to six weeks
• Medication – If you require any medication following your Arm Lift surgery, this will be provided by your medical team
  Exercise – You should avoid any strenuous activities and exercise for at least 4-6 weeks after your Arm Lift to protect your incisions and encourage healing
• Full recovery – You can expect to be fully recovered within six weeks

Arm Liposuction Recovery

• Swelling and bruising – As standalone Arm Liposuction isn’t as invasive as an Arm Lift, any swelling and bruising typically lasts around 10-14 days
• Downtime – You will likely require slightly less downtime, and most people are able to return to work after around five days
• Garments – You will need to wear compression garments covering the treated areas for around four weeks to reduce swelling and aid healing
• Medication – Any required medication will be provided by your medical team on discharge
• Exercise – After Arm Liposuction, you should avoid exercise and strenuous activities for at least four weeks
• Full recovery – You should be fully recovered within 4-5 weeks after Arm Liposuction

When preparing for recovery after Arm Liposuction or an Arm Lift, it is essential to remember that you will be instructed to take precautions to protect your arms as they heal. This may limit certain daily activities, including childcare or household tasks. In the run-up to your surgery, it is essential to take measures to ensure you can rest properly and avoid complications, allowing for a full recovery.

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