Skin sagging treatment - underarms

Alternative Names

Sagging skin treatment - triceps

Information

Loose skin and tissue under the upper arms is common. It may be caused by aging, weight loss, or other reasons. There is no medical need for treatment. However, if you are bothered by the appearance of the skin, there are treatments that may help.

The muscles in the back of your arms are called the triceps. To tone these muscles, try push-ups or other triceps-building exercises. If this does not work, you may want to talk to your health care provider about cosmetic treatment options.

Non-surgical options include laser treatments to stimulate collagen production and tighten the skin. Fillers can also be used to stimulate collagen production. If you are considering arm-lift surgery, consult with a surgeon. Surgery will leave a scar.

Be sure to discuss the risks and benefits of treatments for sagging skin with your provider.

References

Boehler B, Porcari JP, Kline D, Hendrix CR, Foster C, Anders M. ACE-sponsored research: best triceps exercises. www.acefitness.org/certifiednewsarticle/1562/ace-sponsored-research-best-triceps-exercises. Updated August 2011. Accessed December 12, 2022.

Capella JF, Trovato MJ, Woehrle S. Upper limb contouring. In: Peter RJ, Neligan PC, eds. Plastic Surgery, Volume 2: Aesthetic Surgery. 4th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2018:chap 27.

Goldie K, Peeters W, Alghoul M, et al. Global consensus guidelines for the injection of diluted and hyperdiluted calcium hydroxylapatite for skin tightening. Dermatol Surg. 2018;44 Suppl 1:S32-S41. PMID: 30358631 pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30358631/.

Vachiramon V, Triyangkulsri K, Iamsumang W, Chayavichitsilp P. Single-plane versus dual-plane microfocused ultrasound with visualization in the treatment of upper arm skin laxity: a randomized, single-blinded, controlled trial. Lasers Surg Med. 2021;53(4):476-481. PMID: 32770693 pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32770693/.

Review Date: 11/30/2022
Reviewed By: Ramin Fathi, MD, FAAD, Director, Phoenix Surgical Dermatology Group, Phoenix, AZ. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

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