By plastic surgeon Dr Dirk Kremer. 

Each year the summer brings hot weather and a need to wear clothing that helps keep us cool, but over the last couple of months many people would’ve found themselves doing all they can to cover up certain body parts despite how sweaty and uncomfortable it made them feel. Body parts that we’re conscious about isn’t restricted to just the tummy, thighs and bum - one much less discussed area that so many women and men alike are self-conscious about is the arms.

When the warmer months should see us embracing crop tops, cute dresses, bikinis, t-shirts and tank tops, so many people instead opt for clothing and accessories that help hide their arms to avoid feeling embarrassed.

It’s common for patients to be unaware of the procedures that are available to achieve sleeker and more defined arms, so that’s what I’m here to point out right now. Especially useful for those who have been consistently eating healthy and exercising for a prolonged period of time but are still not seeing the results they had hoped for despite the weight loss.

What cosmetic surgery procedures can improve arms?

The most popular cosmetic procedures that target the arms are liposuction and an arm lift. Both are great options to help define and improve the appearance of flabby arms with loose skin provided you choose a reputable plastic surgeon who has experience of performing these arm procedures.

Read: Arm lift surgery or arm liposuction?

Liposuction for arms

For those looking to simply remove fatty deposits from the arms to help tone and shape them, liposuction could be the perfect answer. Arm liposuction usually involves two tiny incisions, one hidden around the upper armpit and another just above the elbow, before a liposuction cannula is used to carefully and safely remove the fatty deposits situated around the upper arms. Recovery will require a compression garment to be worn for up to a month or so to minimise the risk of fluid build-up and to help the skin re-drape for the best aesthetic results.

Read: Why are compression garments worn after cosmetic surgery?

The arm lift (brachioplasty)

Patients with moderate to severe skin laxity and excess loose skin may want to explore the option of a surgical arm lift. The popularity of upper arm lifts has been booming in recent years as more and more people become aware of the procedure and the fantastic results that can be achieved. In fact, figures for the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASAPS) show an increase of over 20% in the number of arm lift procedures that were carried out in 2019 before the Covid-19 lockdowns hit compared to 2015. An arm lift involves an incision being cut into the arm area that extends down to the elbow if necessary, so that all sagging skin can be fully removed. This procedure naturally leaves a very thin scar, but patients can expect this scar to fade considerably with time, to the point where for many patients it is often barely noticeable unless you look closely for it.

So, for those of you who are self-conscious about your arms rest assured there are procedures available that can make a dramatic difference and give your confidence a real boost - something you may want to think about before next summer rolls around!

If you’d like to discuss any of these arm surgery procedures or would like to learn more about the wide range of other cosmetic procedures that I offer here at Harley Street Aesthetics, don’t hesitate to get in touch so that we can book you in for your initial consultation. To get in touch simply call 0845 519 7232, e-mail info@harleystreetaesthetics.com or complete our online contact form.