Loose skin on your arms and abdomen can leave you feeling uncomfortable in your own body. If you haven’t gotten the results you want from diet and exercise, you might be asking whether you can combine an arm lift and tummy tuck into one surgery. The answer is yes, and doing so offers several benefits. Expert surgeon, Dr. Mehdi Balakhani in Newark, DE, can perform both.
Can You Combine Arm Lift and Tummy Tuck?
Yes, you definitely can. Undergoing an arm lift and tummy tuck together means you’ll experience one surgery instead of two. You’ll go through anesthesia once, have one recovery period, and take time off work just once. This approach saves you both time and money.
From a cost perspective, combining procedures significantly reduces your expenses. You’ll pay for facility fees, anesthesia, and pre-operative testing only once. Many patients find this more manageable than scheduling two separate operations.
The brachioplasty addresses sagging skin on your upper arms. The abdominoplasty removes excess skin and tightens weakened abdominal muscles. Since these areas don’t overlap, your surgeon, Dr. Balakhani, can safely perform both during the same session. Learn about the benefits of combining an upper arm lift with other procedures for more insights.
Who Should Consider Combined Surgery?
You’re likely a good candidate for a brachioplasty if you’ve reached a stable weight. Your weight should stay consistent for at least six months before surgery. Most surgeons recommend being within 10-15 pounds of your goal weight.
Good candidates are healthy non-smokers with realistic expectations. If you smoke, you’ll need to quit several weeks before and after your procedure. Smoking can interfere with your body’s ability to heal properly.
Many people who’ve experienced significant weight loss consider this combination. Body contouring after major weight loss often involves addressing multiple areas with loose skin. Some mothers also include these procedures as part of a mommy makeover to restore their pre-pregnancy bodies. Understanding tummy tuck candidacy can help you determine if you’re ready.
What Happens During Surgery?
Your combined arm lift surgery and tummy tuck procedure typically takes three to five hours. The exact time depends on how much correction you need. Dr. Balakhani will make incisions along the inner arm and across your lower abdomen.
During the arm lift, Dr. Balakhani will also remove excess skin and fat from your upper arms. For the tummy tuck procedure, he will remove loose abdominal skin and repair separated muscles. Both incisions are carefully placed to minimize visible scarring once you’ve healed.
You’ll receive general anesthesia, so you’ll sleep comfortably throughout the surgery. An experienced anesthesiologist monitors you continuously. Your surgical team follows strict safety protocols to protect your well-being.
Understanding Your Recovery Timeline
Recovery typically requires a two- to three-week absence from work for most patients. You’ll wear compression garments on your arms and abdomen to reduce swelling. These garments also support your tissues as they heal.
Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity for four to six weeks. Your surgeon will provide you with specific guidelines on when you can resume exercise.
Most patients experience significant improvement after the first two weeks.
Read about what recovery is like after an arm lift to prepare yourself.
You’ll see initial results once swelling decreases. Final results become apparent after six months to one year. Following your post-operative instructions closely helps you achieve the best possible outcome.
Is Combining Procedures Safe?
Safety is always the top priority when planning any surgery. When performed by an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon, combining these procedures is generally safe. Your surgeon will thoroughly evaluate your health during your consultation.
Certain medical conditions may affect your candidacy. Your surgeon will review your medical history, current medications, and overall health status. They’ll discuss any potential risks specific to your situation.
The surgery takes place in an accredited facility with proper equipment and trained staff. Your surgical team takes precautions to prevent complications such as infections or blood clots. Explore our modern facilities to see where your procedure would take place.
What Results Can You Expect?
A combined arm lift and tummy tuck procedure provides comprehensive body contouring results. Your arms will appear slimmer and more toned. Your abdomen will look flatter and firmer.
Scars are an inevitable part of any surgical procedure. Your arm lift scars will be along the inner arm. Your tummy tuck scar will sit low on your abdomen, hidden beneath most clothing and swimwear. Scars fade significantly over time.
Most patients feel more comfortable in fitted clothing after healing. Many report increased satisfaction with their appearance. View before-and-after results to see the transformations other patients have experienced.
Meet Your Surgical Team
Mehdi Balakhani, DDS, MD, FACS, is board-certified in plastic and reconstructive surgery and oral and maxillofacial surgery, and has been serving Newark and New Castle County, DE. His dual training in dentistry and medicine provides a comprehensive understanding of aesthetics and function. Dr. Balakhani has helped countless patients achieve their body contouring goals through personalized surgical plans.
Our practice combines surgical expertise with compassionate care. Every member of our team is dedicated to your safety and satisfaction. We guide you through each phase of your surgical experience with clear communication and support.
Take the Next Step Toward Your Goals
If you want to know whether combining an arm lift and tummy tuck is the right approach for you, reach out to our team. Combining an arm lift and a tummy tuck can help you achieve dramatic results in a single surgery. Contact us to schedule your consultation with Dr. Balakhani in Newark, DE.
