15,769! That’s how many people the American Society of Plastic Surgeons estimates underwent Brachioplasty in 2013.
Brachioplasty, more commonly known as an Arm Lift, has skyrocketed in popularity since the year 2000. Some guess this increase might be due to the popularity of Michelle Obama and her toned, much-coveted upper arms. Others connect the dots between the dramatic amount of weight that Americans are losing and the excess skin that comes with it.
Whatever the reason, arm lifts are more popular than ever before. Here are four fast facts about brachioplasty:
What it is: a surgical procedure that eliminates excess, sagging skin in the upper arms, resulting in a tighter, more toned appearance.
What it isn’t: a way to eliminate fat in the arms altogether. Many patients who seek brachioplasty have already eliminated excess fat in their upper arms but also want to get rid of the excess skin that remains.
Why people seek it: as we age, our skin naturally loses its elasticity. Arms that were previously tight and toned will naturally start to sag over time. An arm lift can help to reverse that process.
Major weight loss is also becoming increasingly common, and no matter how much time you spend at the gym, you can’t exercise away your excess skin. Brachioplasty is like a tummy tuck for your upper arm, tightening your skin to match the tone of your muscles.
Who gets it: as is par for the course with most plastic surgery procedures, mostly women seek brachioplasty. Their inspirations? Jennifer Aniston, Demi Moore, Kelly Ripa, and – as we’ve already mentioned – Michelle Obama.
If you want to show off your upper arms next summer, a Brachioplasty this winter might be right for you. Your winter wardrobe will cover up the healing process much more effectively and you’ll be ready to lose the sleeves when the sun finally comes back out.