An “Invisible” armlift is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to alter the appearance of the upper arms by removing excess skin and fat. Invisible is actually a misnomer as it still results in a scar, but the idea is that the scar is relatively inconspicuous and is designed to fit into one of the skin creases in the armpit.
This procedure may be particularly beneficial for individuals who have experienced some skin loosening due to ageing. The term “invisible” refers to the strategic placement of incisions in less noticeable areas, resulting in a reduction in visible scarring.
Who Is a Good Candidate for an Invisible Armlift?
An Invisible armlift may be suitable for individuals who:
- Have loose excess skin on their upper arms.
- Are in good overall health and have realistic expectations about the outcome.
- Have maintained a stable weight for at least six months.
- Do not smoke or are willing to quit smoking before and after the surgery.
The invisible Armlift is usually not recommended for patents who have lost a large amount of weight and have significant skin excess.
How is the Procedure performed?
The invisible Armlift is actually three procedures performed alongside one another to maximise the results with the shortest possible scar. The first step in the procedure is liposuction to the “triceps fold” or the back of the arm, usually extending all the way from the armpit to the elbow and sometimes even beyond the elbow. this part of the operation is intended to reduce the thickness or bulkiness of the tissue on the back of the arm.
The second part of the operation is the removal of a diamond-shaped piece of the thinned skin and tightening of the skin using sutures high up into the armpit, where the scar can be partially concealed. The last step is to use a skin tightening probe, such as BodyTite TM or IgniteRF TM to further tighten the skin and reduce post-operative looseness. The incisions are carefully closed with sutures to reduce the appearance of scarring.
What Sort of Anaesthetic is Used?
Invisible Armlift is typically performed under general anaesthesia, which means you will be unconscious during the procedure. In some cases, local anaesthesia with intravenous sedation may be used, depending on the extent of the surgery and the patient’s preference.
How Long Does it Take?
The duration of the procedure can vary depending on the extent of the surgery and whether additional procedures, such as liposuction, are performed. On average, an invisible Armlift takes about 2 to 3 hours to complete. In most cases, this is a day-only procedure. Meaning, you will not have to stay in hospital overnight.
What is the Recovery Like?
Recovery time can vary from person to person, but most patients can expect to:
- Experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort for the first week.
- Wear compression garments to support the healing process and reduce swelling.
- Return to light activities within a week and resume normal activities including exercise within 4 to 6 weeks.
- Follow the surgeon’s post-operative care instructions to optimise healing.
Adjunct Procedures
In some cases, adjunct procedures such as liposuction and skin tightening with energy devices may be recommended to further the results of the invisible Armlift. Liposuction can help remove stubborn fat deposits around the elbow or at the back of the armpit and bra strap area.
Other procedures can also be performed alongside the procedure, such as breast lift, however this will depend on the patient and the discretion of the surgeon.
Risks and Possible Complications
As with any surgical procedure, invisible Armlift carries some risks and potential complications, including:
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Scarring
- Asymmetry
- Changes in skin sensation and numb patch on the inside of the arm. This is typically temporary but can be permanent in some cases.
- Poor wound healing
It is important to discuss these risks with your surgeon and follow all pre- and post-operative instructions to reduce the likelihood of complications.
FAQs for Invisible Armlift
Can an invisible Armlift be done alongside other cosmetic procedures?
Yes, it is often performed alongside other procedures like breast lifts or additional liposuction to further the overall body contouring results.
What is the age range for an invisible Armlift?
While there is no strict age limit, most patients seeking this procedure are between 30 and 60 years old, depending on the degree of skin laxity.
How noticeable is the scar after an invisible Armlift?
The scar is designed to be discreet, typically hidden in the armpit crease, and fades over time with proper care.
Can an invisible Armlift address arm cellulite?
While the procedure can alter the contour and reduce excess skin, it is not specifically designed to eliminate cellulite.
What lifestyle changes are necessary before the procedure?
Patients should stop smoking, maintain a stable weight, and avoid blood-thinning medications to reduce surgical risks.
How soon can I lift weights after an invisible Armlift?
Most patients can resume light arm exercises after 4 to 6 weeks, but heavy lifting should be avoided for at least 8 weeks, as advised by the surgeon.
What are the long-term results of an invisible Armlift?
Results are generally long-lasting if a stable weight is maintained, but ageing may lead to some skin laxity over time.
Medical References
-
Outcomes of Arm Lift Surgery: A Review of the Literature – Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
https://journals.lww.com/plasreconsurg/Abstract/2020/09000/Outcomes_of_Arm_Lift_Surgery__A_Review_of_the.17.aspx -
Techniques in Brachioplasty: A Review – Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/jocd.13248 -
Surgical Techniques for Arm Lifts: Current Concepts and Future Directions – Annals of Plastic Surgery
https://journals.lww.com/annalsplasticsurgery/Abstract/2021/05000/Surgical_Techniques_for_Arm_Lifts__Current.4.aspx
Further Reading about Invisible Arm Lift Surgery with Sydney Specialist Plastic Surgeon Dr Mark Kohout
- Read more about Dr. Mark Kohout’s Procedure Page on Arm Reduction
- Read more about Dr. Mark Kohout’s Resources Page on Body Surgery Pricing
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Experienced Plastic Surgeon
Dr. Mark Kohout
A qualified plastic surgeon who operates with care and integrity, based in central Sydney with over 20 years of experience in the cosmetic field. His extensive training and experience assures patients they are in highly trained surgical hands. Dr. Kohout is a dedicated, friendly professional who is committed to providing the high quality care, support and results, alongside his compassionate team.
Dr Mark Kohout (MED0001133000)
Specialist Plastic Surgeon
Specialist registration in Surgery – Plastic Surgery