Is it possible that the first thing to go as we age is the arms? If you’ve noticed that you have lost tone in your arms and are left with flabby, loose “batwing” skin, you may believe this statement is true. The back of the upper arms can start to sag as early as our 30s. So what can be done about flabby upper arms?
What causes flabby upper arms?
Chances are, unless you are in excellent shape, you will see an increase in arm fat as you age. It is not only caused by aging, but by genetics, excess body fat, or hormones. As unfair as it is, even losing a lot of weight can lead to flabby upper arms, as the excess skin remains even after the fat is gone. Less elasticity in the skin can also contribute to flabby arms, and this can be caused by not only aging and carrying too much weight, but also by damage from UV radiation. The sun not only damages the upper layers of the skin, but it can also make skin sag and weaken collagen and elastin.
How can you get rid of flabby upper arms?
The most effective way of getting rid of “batwings” is exercise. Losing body fat is important overall, but it is also important to do exercises that focus on your triceps muscles, those muscles on the back of the arm. You don’t even have to join an expensive gym – there are simple exercise routines you can find online that can help you tone your arms.
Another tip that can help you to avoid flab altogether is to make sure to wear sunscreen to prevent UV damage.
If you are tired of having batwing arms and exercises don’t seem to be helping, brachioplasty (arm lift surgery) may be the answer. Brachioplasty gets rid of excess skin and fat, smooths out tissue, and helps to tone and contour the arms. Liposuction may also be an option. Jeffrey C. Dawes, MD, FRCSC Plastic and Dermatologic Surgery in Calgary can help you decide which procedure might be right for you. Call (403) 571-3141 for a consultation today!
