Master, Doctor Vu Thi Thuy Trang, a dermatologist-cosmetic skin specialist at Tam Anh General Hospital Ho Chi Minh City, stated that Ms. Cam's large upper arms were primarily due to developed muscle mass, with minimal subcutaneous fat.

Upper arm size can be influenced by several factors, including muscle, subcutaneous fat, bone structure, and skin elasticity. Before choosing an arm contouring method, doctors must identify which components primarily contribute to the size and shape of the treatment area. For individuals with muscular upper arms, consistent exercises that target these muscles can make them harder to reduce, and they may even grow larger. This explains why some people exercise for extended periods without achieving slimmer upper arms.

Doctor Trang advised Ms. Cam to undergo botulinum toxin type A (botox) injections. Botox works by affecting nerve transmission to the muscles, temporarily reducing their ability to contract and limiting the activity of the injected muscle group. This process allows the muscle mass to gradually shrink, resulting in more toned upper arms. This method suits cases where large upper arms are due to muscle development, as botox does not dissolve subcutaneous fat.

The doctor administers botox injections to slim Ms. Cam's upper arms. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Ms. Cam received a topical anesthetic to minimize pain, experiencing only a slight stinging sensation during the injection. Afterward, she felt a mild fatigue in both arms due to botox reducing muscle activity in the treated area. However, this sensation gradually subsided and did not significantly affect her daily activities.

After approximately 4-5 weeks, her upper arms were noticeably smaller, with each arm's circumference reduced by about 3 cm, and the arm contours appeared more slender than before. She was advised to avoid strenuous activities or exercises that heavily engage arm muscles during the initial days.

According to Doctor Trang, the response time and degree of effectiveness can vary for each individual. This depends on factors such as muscle mass, treatment area, botox dosage, and the patient's constitution. The effects typically last for about 4-6 months. After this period, muscle activity gradually recovers, and the size may increase again, necessitating maintenance injections every 6 months.

Before botox injections, doctors emphasize the importance of distinguishing whether large upper arms are due to muscle or fat. Individuals with significant subcutaneous fat may need to adjust their weight, diet, and exercise regimen, or consider fat reduction methods like HIFU ultrasound waves. Cases involving both muscle development and fat also require individual assessment. Depending on the ratio of muscle to fat, doctors may recommend one method or a combination of solutions to achieve the desired results.

Botox injections must be performed according to proper indications and techniques. To ensure effectiveness and safety, patients should visit medical facilities with specialized dermatology-cosmetic skin departments, where qualified doctors can perform the procedure. This helps prevent risks that could affect arm movement.

Minh Huong

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