What to Consider Before Getting Upper Arm Liposuction

The arms are a common area for buildup of fat deposits and excess skin caused by various factors, including genetics, aging, hormonal changes, and weight gain. This fat often refuses to budge even with rigorous diets and exercise. Upper arm liposuction is a great way to remove this stubborn fat and skin, and achieve more toned and sculpted arms. While upper arm liposuction in NYC is a minimally invasive laser-assisted procedure with short downtime and recovery, it’s important to consider several key factors before committing to the procedure to ensure it’s the right choice for you and achieve the best results.

Things to Consider Before Arm Liposuction

1. Are You a Good Candidate?

Not everyone is a good candidate for arm liposuction. If you find that despite your best efforts, your upper arms store excess fat, liposuction could be the solution. This procedure works best for healthy individuals close to their ideal weight with good skin tone and elasticity.

2. Skin Elasticity

Ideal candidates have good skin elasticity, which allows the skin to adapt to the new contours after fat removal. If you have significant sagging or loose skin, your surgeon might recommend additional procedures, such as an arm lift to achieve optimal results.

3. Stable Weight

If you are considering arm lipo, being at a stable weight is essential. Substantial fluctuations in weight can affect the results of the procedures because the fat cells that remain after liposuction can expand with weight gain.

4. Understand the Procedure

Learn about the procedure. Laser liposuction of the arms removes excess fat using a laser-assisted suction technique. NYC plastic surgeons perform the procedure using the FDA-approved Smartlipo Triplex workstation. This advanced laser liposuction technology combines three laser wavelengths (1064nm, 1320nm, and 1440nm) to target and liquefy excess fat, coagulate tissues, and tighten the skin. The procedure involves making small incisions in the arms to insert a thin cannula and suction out the excess fat. The precision and versatility of this technique allow the surgeon to sculpt the upper arms and create a smoother, more contoured look.

5. Realistic Expectations

Liposuction can produce noticeable improvements but candidates must have realistic expectations about results. Arm lipo removes stubborn fat deposits and contours the area, but it cannot drastically alter the arm’s overall structure. Smartlipo laser liposuction does offer skin tightening effects but outcomes can vary based on individual considerations. Your surgeon will help set appropriate expectations based on your body type and goals.

6. Anesthesia

Arm lipo is done under either general anesthesia or local anesthesia with IV sedation. Your surgeon will determine the best option for you based on your specific needs and preferences. Local anesthesia numbs only the treated area, while general anesthesia puts you in a deep sleep throughout the procedure.

7. Recovery

Recovery time varies from person to person, but most patients experience some bruising, swelling, and discomfort for a few days to a couple of weeks. You may need to wear a compression garment to help minimize swelling and support the healing process. It’s also important to avoid strenuous activities for a few weeks after surgery, and give your body sufficient time to heal.

8. Maintaining Results

Liposuction removes fat cells, but it’s not a permanent solution to weight gain. Maintaining a healthy diet and regular exercise routine after the procedure is necessary to preserve your results. Weight gain after liposuction can cause fat to accumulate in other areas of the body, so it’s crucial to adopt a healthy lifestyle to maintain your outcomes long-term.

9. Risks and Complications

Like any surgery, upper arm liposuction comes with potential risks. Though rare, complications can include infection, bleeding, scarring, and nerve damage. Asymmetry is another potential problem, where one arm may appear different from the other post-surgery. It’s crucial that you discuss these risks with your surgeon and ensure you understand all the possible outcomes before proceeding.

10. Cost

Upper arm liposuction can be costly, and it’s usually not covered by insurance as it is considered a cosmetic procedure. Before making your decision, consider the overall cost, including surgeon’s fees, anesthesia, and any follow-up care. Leading facilities offer convenient financing options to help manage the expense. For instance, with options like Care Credit and Alphaeon Credit, there are no interest charges if the loan is paid off within the specified timeframe.

Choose the Right Surgeon

Selecting your plastic surgeon is one of the most critical steps for achieving your cosmetic goals. It’s essential to choose a qualified and experienced surgeon who specializes in upper arm liposuction. Experts providing upper arm liposuction in NYC will be proficient in advanced techniques such as Smartlipo. After determining that you are a good candidate and setting realistic expectations, they will offer customized treatment to help you achieve the best results. They will address any concerns you have before and after the surgery and ensure proper postoperative care to promote healing and a successful outcome.