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.
7 Lesser-Known Discounts for the 50+ Crowd As they age, members of the Baby Boomer generation don't like to admit that they're senior citizens, but they love getting discounts. It's kind of a quandary, because some of the best deals available are reduced prices for older folks. || Posted October 21 2013
7 Ways to Stretch Your Reduced Food Budget End of the year budgets are tight for everyone, especially in this economy.It's especially hard for the millions of Americans who depend on government programs like food stamps to help make ends meet. || Posted November 11 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
UTI urgent care visit Paid: 147.00 Visit was $135. Antibiotics was $12. Waiting for four hours in the waiting room and the visit was quick... [more]
Spanish Medical Interpreter Paid: 150.00 I worked with SynShyne Services out of Monroe, NC. They were so worth the price! Professional, friendly, accurate, great attitude and always on time. I recieved an itemized report after every contact and a user friendly invoice weekly... [more]
Skin prick allergy test Paid: 573.00 Took my 9 yr. old in after an allergic reaction to eggs. Several panels for nuts, fish & top 8 allergens. Sure enough, egg came up. Got a script for epinephrine and left... [more]