Those in search of well-toned arms like first lady Michelle Obama appear to be hitting the operating room rather than the gym.
A new report reveals that the number of upper arm lift procedures increased the most between 2000 and 2012, compared to other plastic surgeries.
More than 15,000 people sought upper arm lift procedures in 2012 — up from just 300 in 2000, according to a report from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.
While the exact reason behind the spike in the popular procedure is unknown, Dr. David Reath, a plastic surgeon in Knoxville, Tenn., says that it may have something to do with people losing weight more successfully.
"When people are successful with weight loss-either through surgery, or with diet and exercise-they can end up with excess skin on their arms," he said, according to My Health News Daily.
Reath added that from his experience, people who lost a significant amount of weight sought tummy tucks for their first surgical procedure, "but then after that, the arms are the next thing."
"Look at Michelle Obama. I can't help but think that she has an influence," Reath said.
But arm lift surgery isn't cheap. The procedure costs anywhere between $6,000 and $8,000, he said.
The surgery also comes with the usual risks associated with the use of anesthesia, aside from the scar that is left behind following the procedure.
The new report is based on data collected from physician surveys and a database from plastic surgeons.
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