CRANTFORD COSTA PLASTIC SURGERY
247 Calhoun St.
Charleston, SC 29401
Phone: (843) 722-5904
Fax: 854-201-2400
Monday-Thursday: 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Friday: 9 a.m.-2 p.m.
Skin Clinic hours:
Monday-Thursday: 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Friday: 9 a.m.-2 p.m.
Sculpt Beautiful Arms Without the Drains. Advanced avulsion brachioplasty eliminates surgical drains, reduces bruising, and accelerates recovery.
Schedule Consultation (843) 350-5356An arm lift procedure designed to remove excess skin and fat from the upper arms, restoring a toned, defined appearance.
Brachioplasty, or arm lift surgery, addresses loose skin and excess tissue on the upper arms that can develop from significant weight loss, aging, or genetics. Many patients experience sagging skin and loss of arm definition, affecting confidence in sleeveless clothing.
Dr. Crantford performs an advanced avulsion brachioplasty technique that separates and carefully removes excess tissue without requiring surgical drains. This specialized approach preserves vital lymphatic channels and blood vessels, resulting in faster recovery, minimal bruising, and superior patient experience compared to traditional arm lift methods.
A revolutionary approach to arm lift surgery that eliminates the need for post-operative drains and accelerates healing.
Rather than traditional sharp dissection, Dr. Crantford carefully separates excess tissue using a specialized avulsion approach that preserves delicate lymphatic channels and blood vessels.
The avulsion technique eliminates the need for surgical drains entirely. Most traditional arm lifts require drains for days after surgery. Our method allows you to recover without drain management or removal discomfort.
The avulsion method produces significantly less tissue trauma than traditional techniques, resulting in less bruising, reduced swelling, and a more comfortable recovery experience.
By preserving lymphatic channels during the avulsion technique, we maintain proper fluid drainage and immune function, reducing infection risk and promoting optimal healing outcomes.
Determine if an arm lift is right for you.
Excess, sagging skin on the upper arms that appears even at rest or with arm movement.
Patients who have lost substantial weight and have excess upper arm skin as a result.
Generally healthy with stable weight and realistic expectations about surgical outcomes.
From initial consultation through final results, here’s what to expect with Dr. Crantford.
Meet with Dr. Crantford to discuss your goals, arm concerns, and medical history. He’ll evaluate your arm anatomy, discuss the avulsion technique, answer questions about the no-drain approach, and show before/after results.
Detailed measurements and imaging help Dr. Crantford plan the exact incision placement and tissue removal. Most incisions are placed along the inner arm from armpit to elbow, hidden from view in most positions.
The procedure typically takes 1.5-2 hours under general anesthesia. Dr. Crantford carefully separates excess tissue using the avulsion technique, removes the tissue and skin, and closes incisions with precision sutures.
Because no drains are required, you’ll go home without surgical tubes. Compression garments help minimize swelling. Pain is managed with prescribed medications. Most patients report feeling ready for light activities within days.
Regular check-ups with Dr. Crantford ensure optimal healing. Sutures are removed around 10-14 days. Swelling decreases significantly over weeks 2-4, with continued improvement over 2-3 months.
By 3-6 months, you’ll enjoy beautifully contoured arms with minimal scarring. Results continue to improve as any residual swelling fades. Results are permanent, though natural aging continues.
The avulsion technique transforms recovery compared to traditional arm lift methods.
Days 1-3: Rest at home, compression garment on. Minimal discomfort. No drains to manage. Pain controlled with prescribed medication.
Week 1: Light movement encouraged. Most swelling visible now but normal. No heavy lifting or intense exercise.
Weeks 2-4: Significant swelling reduction. Can resume light exercise like walking. Sutures removed around day 10-14.
Weeks 4-6: Most patients return to normal daily activities. Can resume moderate exercise with doctor approval.
Weeks 6-12: Cleared for most activities. Swelling continues to decrease. Scars fade and improve.
3-6 Months: Final results visible. Scars continue to mature and fade. Arms display beautiful, toned definition.
The elimination of surgical drains simplifies recovery dramatically. You won’t have tubes protruding from your arms, won’t need to empty drain tubes, and won’t experience the discomfort of drain removal. This makes the recovery process more comfortable and allows you to return to normal routines faster.
Dr. Crantford follows Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocols to optimize your surgical experience and recovery. This includes careful pain management with Exparel, strategic fluid management, and evidence-based care that reduces complications and accelerates healing.
After brachioplasty, your arms will have a dramatically improved appearance with defined upper arms and smooth contours. Excess skin is removed, resulting in a toned, youthful look. The results are permanent, though natural aging continues. Most patients report high satisfaction and renewed confidence in sleeveless clothing.
Transparent pricing for your arm lift procedure.
Surgeon’s Fee – Dr. Crantford’s expertise and technique
Facility Fees – Joint Commission accredited surgical center
Anesthesia Fees – Certified anesthesiologist during procedure
Combined Procedures – Brachioplasty with body contouring
Your safety is our highest priority. We maintain the highest standards of surgical care.
Our surgical facility meets rigorous Joint Commission standards for patient safety, quality care, and infection control.
Dr. Clayton Crantford is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, ensuring expertise and accountability.
Enhanced Recovery After Surgery protocols minimize complications and optimize your surgical experience and recovery.
Exparel and multimodal pain management techniques keep you comfortable while minimizing narcotic use.
Ready to transform your arms and regain confidence? Schedule a private consultation with Dr. Crantford today.
Schedule Your ConsultationEverything you need to know about brachioplasty with Dr. Crantford’s avulsion technique.
Schedule your private consultation with Dr. Clayton Crantford to discuss your arm lift goals and experience the benefits of our advanced avulsion brachioplasty technique.
Book Your Consultation (843) 350-5356
