Arm liposuction is a cosmetic procedure that can remove excess fat from certain spots on the arm, usually the upper arm or the fat pads where the arms meet the body in front and back.
Typical costs:
Arm liposuction typically costs between $1,500 and $5,000 for both arms, which usually are counted as one body part. Cost varies by the individual patient and how much fat needs to be removed. For example, Dr. Jeffrey Melton[1] , in Chicago, charges about $2,000 for an average patient. The Institute of Cosmetic and Reconstructive Surgery[2] in California charges $2,000 to $4,000 for arm liposuction, depending on the patient. And Dr. Michael Anthony Pasquale[3] in Honolulu, Hawaii, charges between $2,000 and $5,000, depending on the patient.
Arm liposuction is considered a cosmetic procedure, so it typically is not covered by health insurance.
In an initial consultation, the surgeon will examine the arms, discuss patient goals and describe the surgical procedure, risks and costs.
In arm liposuction, the surgeon will make tiny incisions, usually near the elbow or armpit, then insert a slender tube, called a canula, to break up and suction out excess fat. Arm liposuction usually is an outpatient procedure.
Some newer techniques, such as tumescent liposuction (in which the doctor injects a saline solution to make fat deposits easier to remove) and ultrasonic liposuction (in which the doctor uses sound waves to melt the fat) have made the process safer with better results. The National Institutes of Health[4] provides an overview of liposuction.
Additional costs:
The doctor might prescribe antibiotics and pain medication for recovery.
Compression sleeves, usually worn for at least a week after surgery to reduce swelling and aid healing, usually cost $50 to $60 for each arm for a total of $100 to $120.
Recovery typically requires three to five days off work.
Discounts:
Many surgeons offer discounts for liposuction on multiple areas of the body. For example, the Institute of Cosmetic and Reconstructive Surgery[5] in California charges $1,500 to $2,500 (instead of $2,000 to $4,000) for arm liposuction as a second area, and $1,000 as a third area.
Shopping for arm liposuction:
Good candidates for arm liposuction are healthy non-smokers close to their ideal weight who have localized areas of excess fat that have not responded to diet and exercise. Good skin elasticity also helps achieve desired results.
Tip: Make sure the doctor is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and has privileges at an accredited hospital, even if the surgery is not taking place there. Both the American Society of Plastic Surgeons[6] and the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery[7] offer referral services.
Risks of arm liposuction include shock, fluid overload, bleeding, blood clots, fat embolism, nerve or tissue damage, burns, uneven fat removal, scarring, drug reactions and even death.
Material on this page is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Always consult your physician or pharmacist regarding medications or medical procedures.
10 Quick and Inexpensive Home Makeover Projects To Do While At Home You may not be able to host the large family gathering for the holidays, but there are still many ways to pick up items curbside to spruce up your indoor space for your everyday enjoyment and to bring a more festive spirit. || Posted December 30 2020
10 Key Ways to Prepare for Extreme Snow Forecasters are predicting a true nor'easter will hit the eastern and central states with rain, thunderstorms, ice, snow and high winds over the Thanksgiving weekend. It's crucial to plan ahead, before bad weather hits. || Posted November 26 2013
CostHelper is based in Silicon Valley and provides consumers with unbiased price information about thousands of goods and services. Our writers are experienced journalists who adhere to our strict editorial ethics policy.
CostHelper Community
shoulder mri Paid: 8000.00 Seriously, 8K for an MRI before all the secret insurance kicks in. I was stuck with a 1200 bill and my insurance is pretty good. This is insane for a 20 minute procedure with no nurse assistance... [more]
what should have cost under 100 Paid: 399.67 had my back wheel stuck on someone's driveway and I was pulled out as easily as a tractor could have done... [more]
Why is dental insurance stuck in the 80's? Paid: 55000.00 In 1986, I started my first full time Big Girl job, which came with options for medical insurance that ranged from "Volkswagon to Cadillac, and everything in between" which was up to me to choose based on my needs, what I could af... [more]