Tone your triceps all you want, but loose skin rarely responds to the gym. For many women in Chesterfield, the upper arms remain a source of self-consciousness long after they have reached their goal weight. At Chesterfield Plastic Surgery, Dr. Scott Geiger and Dr. John Hulsen help patients identify the right treatment for sagging upper arms, customizing the plan to address stubborn fat, excess skin, or a combination of both.

Understanding the Causes: Fat vs. Skin Laxity

The upper arms are a common trouble spot because the skin in this area is thinner and less elastic than in other parts of the body. As we age, collagen production decreases, leading to a loss of firmness. Additionally, significant weight fluctuations can stretch the skin beyond its ability to return to its original shape.

Effective solutions for loose arm skin must address the specific composition of the arm. If the issue is primarily stubborn pockets of adipose tissue, upper arm fat reduction via liposuction might be sufficient. However, if the skin itself has lost its elasticity, removing fat alone can actually worsen the appearance of sagging.

Non-Surgical Arm Tightening: Is It Right for You?

For patients with mild to moderate looseness who still retain good skin elasticity, non-surgical arm tightening can be an effective option. Chesterfield Plastic Surgery utilizes advanced technology to stimulate collagen production deep within the dermis.

Skin laxity treatment without surgery typically involves radiofrequency or similar energy-based modalities. These procedures heat the underlying tissue, causing it to contract and tighten over time. While these treatments offer the benefit of little to no downtime, the results are generally more subtle than surgical intervention. They are best suited for patients seeking improvements in texture and mild firmness, rather than significant contouring.

The Gold Standard: Arm Lift Surgery (Brachioplasty)

When skin overhang is significant, typically due to aging or massive weight loss, surgical removal is necessary. Arm lift surgery, medically known as brachioplasty, remains the most effective method for correcting severe drooping of the upper arm.

During this procedure, Dr. Geiger or Dr. Hulsen removes the excess skin and fat extending from the underarm to the elbow. This allows the remaining skin to be redraped smoothly over the muscle, restoring a taut and defined shape. While brachioplasty leaves a scar, it is placed discreetly on the inside or back of the arm to minimize visibility.

Combining Treatments for Upper Arm Rejuvenation

Optimal upper arm rejuvenation often requires a multi-faceted approach. In many cases, arm contouring is achieved by combining brachioplasty with liposuction. This procedure removes the bulk of the fat to sculpt the arm, while the excision removes the redundant skin.

This combination allows the arm to be not just smaller, but also have a pleasing, athletic shape. To explore the full range of options available, we offer other body procedures for comprehensive contouring.

Schedule Your Consultation in Chesterfield, MO

Eliminate the frustration of loose skin and restore a streamlined contour to your upper arms. Contact Chesterfield Plastic Surgery to find out if surgical excision or non-invasive tightening is the most effective solution for your body. Book a consultation with Dr. Geiger or Dr. Hulsen to confirm your candidacy and create a plan that meets your goals.