Arm liposuction is almost exclusive to women; very few men ask to have this procedure done. Many women are unable to achieve the results that they’re looking for with exercise alone and turn to arm liposuction to help sculpt the perfect arms when exercise fails them. Arm liposuction can help reduce unsightly skin that hangs down and give arms a more toned and healthy appearance. Arm liposuction can also include the anterior and posterior fat pads, located near the arm pit on both the front and back.

The time it takes for arm liposuction depends on the technique that the surgeon uses as well as the amount of fat that needs to be removed. The typical time for the procedure usually runs one to two hours. The surgeon will make small incisions above the elbows as entry points for the cannulas. There are a few phases when having arm liposuction. For one, you the surgeon will usually visit you in your room and put marks on you to indicate where the incisions will go. Your IV will be started and you will be cleaned up with an antibacterial solution to prevent infection. Anesthesia is the next step. Most arm liposuction patients are treated with a local anesthesia to numb the arms. Shortly after anesthesia starts, the arm liposuction procedure will begin. Once it’s completed, a dressing is applied.

Immediately following the procedure, you’ll be taken to the recovery area where your vitals and your pain can be monitored. You may feel nausea, pain or even chills from the anesthesia. In recovery they’ll ask about your pain and discomfort and do what they can to make you feel better. Most surgeons will recommend that you get up and start walking as soon as you feel steady enough to do so. You can usually go home within a few hours after the procedure is done.

There will likely be swelling in your arms. For some, the swelling may be persistent and may be an issue for several weeks. Some people may find they need some help at home for a day or two following their procedure. Many people are able to return to work or their normal activities within 5 days to a week. It often can take as much as 3 to even 6 months to fully heal see the full results of your arm liposuction procedure. Rarely bleeding and/or infection may occur, there may be skin irregularities. These complications are uncommon but can occur.