Let’s continue this week’s article with a quiz:
Who is the best candidate for brachioplasty?
A. Someone with toned arms who wants more definition
B. Someone with excess skin on the upper arms
C. A bodybuilder seeking larger biceps
D. Anyone with arm pain
E. Patients under 25 only
✔ Correct answer: B Someone with excess skin on the upper arms
With nearly 40 years of experience in plastic surgery, I’ve helped many patients concerned about the appearance of flabby upper arms—what we often call the “bat wing” deformity. This condition, typically caused by aging, weight loss, or a genetic tendency toward loose skin, can be frustrating and impossible to improve with exercise alone.
Brachioplasty, or arm lift surgery, is a highly effective solution for patients struggling with significant upper arm laxity. Ideal candidates are individuals who are in good health, at a stable weight, and have excess skin and soft tissue along the upper arms. It is important that candidates do not smoke, as smoking can impair healing and increase complication risks. Brachioplasty is not ideal for patients who are significantly overweight or have poor skin elasticity without enough redundant tissue to remove.
