Brachioplasty restores a slimmer and more youthful contour to the arms when aging, genetics, or significant weight loss has caused sagging or stubborn fat accumulation. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Rebecca Garza performs this arm lift procedure in Schererville for men and women who want to feel more confident exposing their upper arms. 

What Is Brachioplasty? 

Brachioplasty, commonly known as an arm lift, is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to address sagging or excess skin and stubborn fat on the upper arms. It is often sought by individuals with what are colloquially called “bat wings”—loose or flabby skin on the upper arms that hangs, often causing self-consciousness. Brachioplasty aims to enhance the contour of the arms, improve self-confidence, and restore a more proportionate and defined upper body silhouette. While the procedure is effective in achieving cosmetic goals, Dr. Garza will educate you on potential risks and realistic expectations during your consultation. 

Your Arm Lift Consultation With Dr. Garza 

Your consultation with Dr. Garza is an opportunity to learn more about the brachioplasty procedure and to share your goals, questions, and concerns with her. She will cover your medical history and perform a physical examination of your arms to determine whether you are a good candidate for arm lift surgery. She will discuss all viable options to help you achieve the look that makes you happy. 

Complementary Procedures 

Sometimes a combination of procedures is the best approach for achieving your goals. Arm lift surgery is often combined with the following procedures: 

Dr. Garza will educate you about all your options so that you can feel confident as the two of you develop your treatment plan. 

Dr. Garza

Meet Your Surgeon,
Rebecca Garza, M.D.

Dr. Garza is one of the most accomplished female board-certified plastic surgeons in Indiana and the Chicagoland area. She completed elite fellowship training and is active in several prestigious professional associations, including the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, The Aesthetic Society, and the American Society for Reconstructive Microsurgery. She performs a full range of facial procedures, as well as breast enhancement and body contouring, all tailored to your personal needs.

More About Dr. Garza

Credentials You Can Trust

Dr. Garza Credentials

Arm Lift/Brachioplasty Before and After Photos 

Dr. Garza has performed numerous arm lift procedures and has a full gallery of her patients’ before and after photos. At your consultation, you will have the opportunity to review these photos so that you can see the caliber of results she creates with arm lift surgery. 

What To Expect From Your Arm Lift Surgery 

Brachioplasty is typically performed as an outpatient procedure under general anesthesia. Dr. Garza will typically make an incision along the inner arm from the elbow to the armpit, though depending on the extent of skin laxity, the incision may be limited to the armpit area or may extend to the back or chest wall as part of an upper body lift.

During the procedure, Dr. Garza carefully removes excess fat from the upper arms. She may also tighten the muscle tissue to achieve a more defined shape before trimming away the loose, sagging skin. If needed, she can also address laxity and fatty deposits in the armpit and chest area. After sculpting your new arm contours, Dr. Garza will re-drape the remaining skin and suture it shut. 

Brachioplasty Recovery 

Most patients can return to work within 1 to 2 weeks of their procedure. As postoperative swelling and bruising decrease over the first few weeks, you will see your slimmer and more sculpted arms. Keep in mind that your results will continue to improve over several months as the residual swelling subsides and the scars mature to a lighter, flatter appearance. 

You will need to wear compression sleeves for at least 6 weeks to support the healing process. These garments lessen fluid build-up and aid in comfort and swelling reduction. It can take 4 to 6 weeks to resume normal activities and longer to return to high-impact sports or exercises. Dr. Garza will monitor your recovery and advise you on when you can reintroduce certain movements or activities.  

Brachioplasty for Men 

Although upper arm fat is more common in women, men can still benefit from arm lift surgery. Dr. Garza helps male patients achieve better muscle definition in their biceps without feminizing their improved arm contours. 

Dr. Garza understands that men have different aesthetic goals than women and that male arms have unique anatomical considerations. Her personalized approach to surgery and excellent results make her a highly sought-after surgeon by male and female patients alike. 

A Reputation Built on Results

A Reputation
Built on Results

Every encounter I’ve had with Dr. Garza has been exceptional. She is kind and patient while thoroughly...
Dr garza is truly a blessing to this region!! her skills are superior and she does amazing work!! So...
So grateful for her compassion and skill!! She is very skilled in her specialty!! She knows the research...
My experience with Dr. Garza & staff was outstanding. I ask many questions to ensure that I have a thorough...

Arm Lift Surgery FAQs 

Is brachioplasty right for me? 

If weight loss or aging has left you with loose skin and stubborn fat in your upper arms, brachioplasty can help. If fat alone is your main concern and your skin retains good elasticity, liposuction may be more appropriate. Scheduling a consultation with Dr. Garza can help you determine your best course of action.

How long do the results of brachioplasty last? 

Your enhanced arm contours can be enjoyed indefinitely with a healthy lifestyle and stable weight. Aging doesn’t stop and will still affect your arms’ appearance, but diet and exercise can help you prolong your results. Dr. Garza will provide guidance on postoperative care to optimize the longevity of your results. 

Trust a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon
for Your Arm Lift

Sculpt your arms with the help of a fellowship-trained, board-certified plastic surgeon. Please request a consultation with Dr. Garza using the online form or call our office at (219) 322-3131. We look forward to meeting you. 

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