Patients are often quite nervous about their first meeting with their arm lift surgeon. At this first visit — called the initial consultation — many things will be decided, after all.
You will decide if the surgeon is right for you. But your surgeon will also be evaluating if you will be a good patient for them. They’ll be looking at your pain points and concerns and making sure you meet the criteria for undergoing the surgery you desire. Can they achieve your desired outcome?
As you look forward to this meeting, one thing you should keep in mind that preparation is key. You are far more likely to have a positive outcome if you are prepared. To begin with, you should have a list of questions you want to ask your arm lift surgeon. Need a bit of help? That’s what we’re here for.
Table of Contents
Top Questions to Ask Your Arm Lift Surgeon Before Surgery
What is your experience with arm lift surgery?
Experience matters when choosing an arm lift surgeon. Ask how many arm lift procedures they have performed and what their success rate is. A plastic surgeon with extensive experience will understand how to customize the surgery to fit your needs, whether you are dealing with excess skin after weight loss or simply want a more toned appearance.
How often do you perform arm lift surgery?
Some plastic surgeons perform arm lift surgery regularly, while others may only do it occasionally. Choosing a board certified plastic surgeon who frequently performs this procedure can increase the likelihood of a smooth healing process and optimal arm contours.
Am I a good candidate for arm lift surgery?
Ideal candidates for arm lift surgery are those with excess sagging skin on the upper arms that does not improve with exercise. If you have lost a significant amount of weight, you may have extra skin that affects your arm contours.
Maintaining a stable weight before surgery is important to ensure long-lasting results. If you smoke or have medical conditions that impair healing, your plastic surgeon may recommend making lifestyle changes before scheduling the procedure.
What type of anesthesia will be used for my surgery?
Most arm lift procedures are performed under general anesthesia, but some may be done with local anesthesia and sedation. It is important to discuss which option is best for you based on your medical history and comfort level.
Will an arm lift remove excess fat?
An arm lift primarily removes excess skin, but it can also remove excess fat in certain cases. If you have stubborn fat deposits along with sagging skin, your plastic surgeon may recommend liposuction as part of the procedure.
This combination can create a smoother and more toned upper arm appearance. During your arm lift consultation, your surgeon will assess whether fat removal is necessary for your desired outcome.
What will my arm lift recovery entail?
The recovery process after an arm lift varies from patient to patient. Most patients experience mild discomfort, swelling, and bruising. Fortunately, these symptoms should improve within just a few weeks.
Wearing the compression garment you will be given helps reduce swelling and supports the new arm contours as your body heals. You should avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities for several weeks to prevent complications.
What kind of scars will I have after surgery?
Scarring is an unavoidable part of any surgical procedure, including an arm lift. The incisions are typically placed on the inside of the upper arm, making them less visible when your arms are at your sides. The size and location of the scars will depend on how much excess skin is removed.
Can I minimize my arm lift scars in any way?
There are several ways to improve the appearance of scars after an arm lift. Following proper wound care instructions, using silicone scar treatments, and protecting your skin from sun exposure can help.
Your plastic surgeon may also recommend massage techniques or laser treatments to further reduce the visibility of scars. The healing process takes time, so patience is key when it comes to scar improvement.
Will my arm lift results be permanent?
Arm lift results are long-lasting, but maintaining them requires a healthy lifestyle. Significant weight gain or loss after surgery can affect the appearance of your upper arms.
Eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly can help maintain your results. While natural aging may lead to some changes over time, most patients continue to enjoy improved arm contours for many years.
Other Questions to Consider for Yourself Before Surgery
How can I find the best arm lift surgeon in US?
Research is key when searching online for the “best arm lift surgeon near me”. Look for a board certified surgeon with experience in arm lift surgery. Reading patient reviews, viewing before and after photos, and scheduling consultations with different surgeons can help you make an informed decision.
Remember that you don’t actually need the so-called “best arm lift surgeon in the US”. You need a qualified surgeon with experience and a proven track record of success.
Do I want any other cosmetic surgery procedures in addition to an arm lift?
If you have excess skin and fat in other areas, you may want to consider combining your arm lift with other body contouring procedures. A plastic surgeon can help determine if a body lift or another lift surgery is right for you. Discussing your options during your initial consultation ensures you achieve the most balanced and natural-looking results.
Have I already lost all the weight I want to?
It is best to undergo an arm lift after weight loss once you have reached a stable weight. Fluctuations in weight after surgery can impact your arm lift results. If you are still in the process of losing weight, it may be best to wait until you have reached your goal before scheduling surgery.
Request a Consultation with Us
Arm lift surgery is a great way to reduce the sagging appearance of the upper arms after weight loss (often called “bat wings”). Finding the right surgeon for you will help you choose the right surgery steps for your situation, navigate arm lift costs, help your minimize swelling and bruising during recovery, and ultimately work with you to achieve your goals.
Plastic surgeon Dr. Sanam Zahedi performs arm lift surgery and other body contouring procedures at her own plastic surgery center in Fort Lauderdale, FL. Call today to book a consultation appointment and start your journey today.
References
https://www.plasticsurgery.org/patient-safety?sub=Questions+to+Ask+Your+Plastic+Surgeon
