WAVE GOODBYE TO ARM FLAB

Q Dear Dr. Bass,

It gets more difficult each year to dress with some kind of style because I am trying to hide my arm flab. I started really noticing it about 5 years ago. I’m in my late 50’s. I work out three times a week, watch my weight, eat healthy but what will be, will be. I can’t wear anything sleeveless otherwise if I go to move my arm for any reason the excess skin hangs, jiggles, looks crepey, looks awful!! So I cover them up, which reminds me of how my grandmother dressed. Not a good look at my age. I’m ready to correct this but am nervous about the scars. How is the procedure performed and what can we do so the scars look okay? – Kate L.

A Hello Kate,

According to statistics, the late 50’s is the typical age for this procedure known as the brachioplasty. Most complain about the thickness of the arm in addition to the excess hanging skin. The procedure is performed safely in an outpatient surgery center with an anesthesiologist monitoring your comfort. If present, the thickness of the arm is given shape by doing liposuction. Then using predetermined markings, the excess skin is removed and multi-layers of closure are used to ensure that your incision will not be under excess stress. For those with excess skin and fullness of the Axilla area, this can also be address at this time. After the procedure you will be wearing support sleeves/ bolero to protect and limit the amount of swelling. When all is healed the scar will look like a thin pencil line. My patients say it is a very “freeing” procedure as it opens their options in clothing again. I can show you before and after photos of my patients’ results during your consultation. There is still time to have this procedure before our long hot summer sets in. See you soon Kate. – Dr. Bass