Arm liposuction is a cosmetic procedure that removes excess fat from the upper arm area. It is done using a cannula (thin tube) inserted through small incisions in the arm. The cannula is attached to a vacuum device that removes the fat from the target areas. On average, this procedure takes 1-2 hours to complete. As a result, patients receive a more toned, contoured appearance of the upper arms.
Power-assisted liposuction, also known as power lipo or PAL, uses a specialized cannula with a mechanized system that rapidly moves back and forth to assist Dr. Erella in breaking up and removing fat. This allows the procedure to be performed more efficiently and precisely. The power assistance helps the surgeon extract fat with less physical effort.
Laser-assisted liposuction, sometimes called laser lipo, uses concentrated energy to liquefy fat before removing it. A small laser fiber is inserted through tiny incisions, allowing Dr. Erella to target unwanted tissues. This device heats and melts cell membranes, which makes fatty deposits easier to extract. This technique can enable smoother results and faster recovery. The heat from the laser also stimulates collagen production, which helps tighten loose skin. The procedure involves less bleeding and bruising compared to traditional liposuction methods.
This technique involves injecting large volumes of tumescent solution (saline, lidocaine, and epinephrine) before removing fat. This fluid swells the tissue, allowing it to be suctioned out more smoothly while constricting blood vessels to minimize bleeding and bruising. This method makes the surgery safer and easier.
Before undergoing arm liposuction, patients schedule a consultation appointment with Dr. Erella to discuss their goals and expectations for the procedure. He evaluates the patient’s arms, skin elasticity, and fat distribution to determine if they are a good candidate. Dr. Erella also studies their medical history and medications to select the most appropriate technique and ensure a smooth recovery.
If cleared for surgery, the patient receives pre-operative instructions to avoid blood thinning medications and smoking for at least three weeks before the procedure. On the morning of arm liposuction, surgical markings are made on the arms to outline the areas for fat removal.
Dr. Erella makes tiny incisions in the arm, often less than a quarter inch. The number of cuts depends on the amount of fat to be removed. These small incisions allow the numbing solution and slender suction tubes called cannulas to be inserted beneath the skin.
The second step is to inject a large volume of tumescent solution. This fluid contains saline, a numbing medication like lidocaine, and epinephrine to constrict blood vessels. Injecting the tumescent solution swells and firms the treatment area, allowing for easier fat removal while minimizing blood loss. It also numbs the target zone and blocks pain signals to the brain. The anesthetic takes effect within minutes.
Dr. Erella uses a special mechanized cannula attached to a vacuum device to remove excess fat. It is moved back and forth in a controlled motion to break up and loosen fat cells, which are then suctioned out. The cannula tip rapidly vibrates or oscillates to extract fat more effectively.
Dr. Erella may also use laser-assisted liposuction to achieve smoother results. This involves inserting a laser fiber through the cannula into the fat layer. The laser melts the fat, which is then removed via suction. This allows for more precise targeting of loose tissues.
Once the desired amount of fat has been removed, Dr. Erella uses dissolvable sutures to close the tiny incisions. Compression garments are placed over the arms to minimize swelling and promote skin retraction.
Some patients who undergo arm lipo may be unhappy with the amount of sagging skin that remains afterward. An arm lift can complement liposuction to help tighten excess arm skin. During this plastic surgery, Dr. Erella makes an incision along the inside of the arm, extending from the elbow up toward the armpit. Through this cut, excess skin and fat are removed. The remaining tissue is then smoothed out and tightened, making arm muscles look more defined. An arm lift performed together with liposuction allows patients to achieve beautiful contours. The dual procedures address the fat and hanging skin for optimal aesthetic results. A complete upper body lift can further enhance the patient’s appearance.
Immediately after the procedure, the arms will be wrapped in a compression garment to minimize swelling and promote healing. Patients should rest with their arms elevated to allow proper drainage and reduce inflammation. Pain and discomfort are common. However, Dr. Erella prescribes medications to manage all symptoms.
Swelling continues to decrease during this period. The compression garment can now be taken off for several hours daily as patients feel much better. If the stitches are not self-dissolving, they will be removed after 10-14 days. Normal daily activities, except for strenuous exercise, can usually be resumed by the end of week 3. The healing process becomes smoother and less discomforting.
During the first week, swelling and bruising are at their worst before gradually subsiding. The compression garment must always be worn except for bathing and wound care. Gentle arm movement is encouraged to promote circulation and reduce stiffness. Most patients take at least a week off from work and strenuous activity after liposuction and other body contouring procedures.
Most swelling should resolve after one month of recovery. Scars from the incisions start fading as well. The final results of arm liposuction are visible after 3-6 months. It takes time for all residual swelling to subside and reveal the new beautiful contours.
Patients with localized, diet- and exercise-resistant fat deposits in the upper arms are good candidates for arm liposuction. This procedure works best for removing isolated fatty areas rather than large volumes. The patient’s BMI must be up to 30 to qualify for surgery. If it is higher, we will need to adjust the procedure.
People with good skin elasticity are the best candidates for arm liposuction. Their skin can better conform to the new body contours after fat removal without sagging. Such elasticity is usually seen in younger individuals. However, Dr. Erella can also achieve impressive results for patients with loose skin. He may perform an arm lift to remove excess tissues after liposuction.
Those considering this cosmetic surgery should be in overall good health. There must be no medical conditions that impair healing, cause bleeding, or interfere with anesthesia. It is best if candidates do not smoke. Healthy individuals handle surgical procedures and recovery better.
Ideal candidates have realistic expectations about the results of arm liposuction. While there will be significant cosmetic improvements, patients must understand that some scarring will remain, especially if the procedure is combined with an arm lift.
The best candidates for arm liposuction are highly motivated to maintain their results. While the procedure removes fat cells, it does not prevent future weight gain. Patients must continue eating healthy and exercising after surgery to maintain improved arm contours.
Liposuction is the most popular cosmetic procedure in the United States, helping hundreds of thousands of people look younger and more beautiful every year. It can provide several benefits:
The cost of arm liposuction in Austin ranges from $2,000 to $5,000. This price includes the surgeon’s fee, anesthesia, and operating room expenses. More extensive liposuction, involving both arms or a larger area, tends to cost more than a minimally invasive procedure with mild corrections. Patients should schedule consultations with Dr. Erella to get exact quotes for their desired arm liposuction procedure. We will clarify what is included in the quoted price and discuss financing options if needed.