With the natural aging process, the body produces less collagen and elastin, key proteins that ensure firm, youthful-looking contours. With time, the supportive structure of the upper arms gives way, leading to loose, flabby skin and the buildup of excess fat.
To combat these changes, Renuvion and arm lift surgery offer powerful sculpting solutions that can restore your physique and heighten self-confidence. In this blog, our team of board-certified cosmetic experts at Richmond Plastic Surgeons in Virginia explores the differences between these two popular treatments, allowing you to select the best procedure for your unique needs and goals.
Understanding Renuvion
Renuvion is a non-invasive skin-tightening treatment that relies on cutting-edge radiofrequency energy and helium gas to produce cold plasma energy. The technology contracts loose skin by boosting collagen output, creating age-reversing changes from within. When applied to the arms, Renuvion can produce a more toned, sculpted appearance without the greater risks, costs, and downtime associated with surgery. Results usually last up to 5 years.
What Is a Surgical Arm Lift?
In contrast to Renuvion, an arm lift is a surgical procedure to restore the contours of the upper arms. An arm lift firms the underlying muscles and removes loose, hanging skin, sometimes referred to as “bat wings.” An arm lift is often paired with liposuction to remove excess fat and produce the most comprehensive and impressive sculpting results possible. Incisions are created on the inside of the arm, stretching from the armpit to the elbow. Scarring is typically well-hidden, being on the underside of the arm.
How Do the Two Procedures Compare?
When evaluating Renuvion and an arm lift side-by-side, we can look at things from a number of vantage points, including the following:
| Renuvion | Arm Lift | |
|---|---|---|
| Pros: | Renuvion is non-surgical and non-invasive. It uses radiofrequency energy to heat the underlying layers of tissue, triggering the body to produce more collagen, a natural skin-tightening agent. Only a tiny incision is required, with a scar that is virtually imperceptible. Downtime is usually only 2-3 days. | An arm lift is the gold standard when it comes to removing loose, sagging skin. The surgery not only restores the aesthetic appearance of the arms but also reduces discomfort, chafing, and irritation caused by loose skin rubbing against the body and clothing. |
| Cons: | Energy-based treatments like Renuvion can only go so far in tightening lax contours. If skin sagging is more pronounced, patients will need to consider surgery. Renuvion is a good choice for younger patients who are only just beginning to notice loose skin. | Because an arm lift is surgical, it comes with inherent risks and requires a longer downtime. Patients will need to limit physical activities after their procedure for several weeks. Additionally, an arm lift leaves behind scars. |
| Longevity of Results: | Renuvion results can last up to five years. Results continue to evolve over the first 6-9 months as collagen production is gradually enhanced. | Arm lift results can last a decade or more, provided that you follow a healthy lifestyle, avoid weight fluctuations, and stay out of the path of harmful UV rays. |
| Costs: | Renuvion can cost from $3,000 up to around $10,000, depending on your unique goals. If Renuvion is paired with other cosmetic procedures, costs will naturally climb. | An arm lift in Virginia can range from around $7,000 up to $15,000. Factors that affect pricing include the techniques utilized by your surgeon, the extent of skin laxity present, and whether surgery is paired with other aesthetic options. |
Determining Your Candidacy for Renuvion and Arm Lift Surgery
The best way to figure out which body contouring procedure is right for you is to attend a detailed consultation with your aesthetic provider. There are many factors at play when it comes to choosing body sculpting options, including your age, skin quality, goals, budget, and the amount of time you are willing to devote to recovery.
To qualify for an arm lift or Renuvion, patients need to be in good health and free from any uncontrolled medical conditions that might increase their risks. It is also critical that patients have realistic expectations, understanding that an arm lift or Renuvion can bring improvement, but never "perfection".
Renuvion is typically recommended for patients who desire a non-invasive approach and who have minimal to moderate skin sagging. An arm lift is more suitable for those with pronounced hanging skin folds and "bat wings" who seek a dramatic and lasting transformation.
Choosing the Best Provider for Arm Contouring
When selecting your surgeon, you will want to choose a provider with extensive body sculpting expertise and board certification. You will want to assess your surgeon's educational background, credentials, awards, specialized techniques, patient testimonials, and before-and-after photographs.
Additionally, it is critical to meet your provider in person. This will give you a sense of whether working together is the right fit. You should prepare a list of questions to ask in person and take note of how well your surgeon listens and responds to your inquiries.
Whether you undergo Renuvion or an arm lift, your safety should always be prioritized, and you should have access to all the information and education you require to make well-informed decisions for your care.
What Is the Takeaway?
Whether the changes in your upper arms are due to genetics or the natural aging process, loose, sagging skin can cause self-consciousness and limit your wardrobe options. Both a surgical arm lift and Renuvion provide excellent body contouring results. Choosing the right procedure for you will depend on the degree of skin laxity present, your budget, and the amount of time you are willing to set aside for a recovery. The best way to determine which option is right for you is to work with a qualified, experienced body sculpting expert, who will help you to achieve the slimmer, more sculpted physique that you desire.
Get Started With Body Contouring in Richmond Today! Contact us at Richmond Plastic Surgeons in Virginia for a Private Consultation.
At Richmond Plastic Surgeons, we prioritize patient safety, comfort, and success, delivering an unparalleled treatment experience and transformative results. If you are frustrated by loose, sagging skin and excess fat in the upper arms, reach out to us today to book your private consultation and learn more about Renuvion and arm lift surgery. We will answer all your questions and prepare an individualized treatment plan that restores your appearance and heightens your confidence.