Addressing Skin Laxity More Completely

For some patients, excess skin does not stop at the upper arm. It may extend into the underarm area or along the side of the chest, particularly after significant weight loss. In these cases, a standard arm lift may not fully address the concern.

At Restivo Plastic Surgery, extended arm lift surgery is approached thoughtfully and without pressure. As a female-led, boutique practice serving Hawaii, care is provided in a calm, private environment at our Maui office, where patient priorities guide every recommendation.

What an Extended Arm Lift Is Designed to Address

An extended arm lift builds on traditional brachioplasty by removing excess skin from the upper arm as well as the underarm or lateral chest area. The goal is to create a smoother, more continuous contour from arm to torso.

This procedure is often considered when skin laxity affects both appearance and comfort, particularly with clothing fit and movement.

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The Many Benefits of an Extended Arm Lift

  • More Complete Contour Improvement: Addressing both the arm and adjacent areas allows for smoother transitions and a more cohesive upper-body shape.
  • Improved Comfort and Mobility: Removing excess skin can reduce irritation and pulling, making daily movement and activity feel easier.
  • Better Clothing Fit Across the Upper Body: Many patients find tops and sleeves fit more comfortably once excess tissue is removed.
  • Refinement Without Overstatement: Careful planning supports results that feel balanced and natural rather than surgically obvious.

Is an Extended Arm Lift Right for You?

An extended arm lift may be appropriate for patients who experience significant skin laxity extending beyond the upper arms, often after major weight loss. These concerns may persist despite stable weight and overall good health. Good candidates are generally seeking improved comfort and proportion rather than dramatic transformation. During consultation, Dr. Restivo helps determine whether an extended arm lift in Hawaii aligns with your anatomy, goals, and timing through open, pressure-free discussion.

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What to Expect From the Extended Arm Lift Process

  1. A Consultation Focused on Overall Contour: Your consultation explores how skin laxity affects movement, comfort, and clothing fit. Dr. Restivo evaluates the arms and surrounding areas to determine whether an extended approach is appropriate.
  2. The Procedure Itself: Extended arm lift surgery is performed using carefully planned incisions that address both the arm and adjacent areas. Anesthesia and surgical details are reviewed so expectations feel clear and informed.
  3. Immediate Aftercare: After surgery, you’ll receive guidance to support healing and comfort. Swelling, soreness, and tightness are common early and gradually improve.
  4. Follow-Up and Continued Support: Follow-up visits allow healing to be monitored and questions addressed. Ongoing guidance ensures recovery progresses steadily and confidently.
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Why Choose Restivo Plastic Surgery?

Extended arm lift surgery requires careful planning to balance contour improvement with comfort and scarring considerations. At Restivo Plastic Surgery, recommendations are guided by anatomy, lifestyle, and long-term wearability rather than surface appearance alone.

Thoughtful Incision Planning

Dr. Restivo approaches extended arm lift surgery with close attention to incision placement and tissue handling, supporting smoother contours and functional results.

Experience With Post-Weight Loss Changes

With training in both general and plastic surgery, Dr. Restivo brings a broad understanding of skin behavior after weight loss, supporting safe and effective contouring decisions.

Honest, Individualized Guidance

Patients receive clear explanations of what the procedure can realistically achieve, allowing them to make decisions while feeling informed and grounded. Care is delivered with discretion, clarity, and respect for individual goals.

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Recovery and Healing

Recovery after an extended arm lift varies by individual and surgical approach. Many patients experience swelling, tightness, or fatigue during early healing, with gradual improvement over several weeks.

Activity limitations and garment use are discussed clearly during consultation. Ongoing follow-up helps ensure healing progresses safely and comfortably.

How Results Continue to Settle

Initial improvements become visible as swelling subsides, with continued refinement as tissues adjust. Extended arm lift results are designed to improve comfort and contour while aging naturally over time. Skin quality, lifestyle, and overall health influence how outcomes mature.

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Frequently Asked Questions Extended Arm Lift

How is an extended arm lift different from a standard arm lift?

An extended arm lift addresses excess skin beyond the upper arm, including the underarm or side of the chest, providing a more complete contour improvement.

Will scarring be more noticeable with an extended arm lift?

Scars are longer due to the expanded treatment area, but placement is planned carefully. Their appearance typically softens over time.

Is an extended arm lift only for massive weight loss patients?

While common after significant weight loss, the procedure may also be appropriate for patients with broader skin laxity patterns.

Can an extended arm lift be combined with other procedures?

An extended arm lift may be combined with a tummy tuck, liposuction, mommy makeover, or other body contouring procedures when appropriate. Combination planning is discussed during consultation.

How long does recovery usually take?

Early recovery typically spans several weeks, though full healing continues longer. Timelines vary by individual.

Schedule Your Consultation for an Extended Arm Lift in Hawaii

Schedule a consultation to discuss an extended arm lift in Hawaii with Dr. Restivo and receive clear, personalized guidance in a calm, private setting focused on comfort and proportion.

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