Lipedema is a chronic fat disorder that can affect women regardless of BMI. Here's why lipedema can remain hidden for years, especially in skinny women.
June 10, 2026
Table of Contents
Women generally have more fat in their upper arms than men.
As a result, because they have more difficulty building muscle in this area, they are more likely to have sagging upper arms.
A Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise study showed that women who engaged in strength training on just one arm did not show any differentiating results (on that arm) compared to the arm that wasn’t put through such training [1].
Successful weight loss involves losing weight across the entire body, not just a single focus area.
Successful weight loss methods include monitoring what is consumed, which consists of cutting back on calories, keeping a healthy and active lifestyle, and others.
Arm fat cannot be targeted specifically
One reason one still has big arms after losing weight is that targeted fat loss is almost impossible.
While one can focus on specific body parts to build muscle, more often than not, the muscle remains hidden under fat.
Another fact often not understood (enough) is that weight loss and fat loss are two different things.
Fat loss is the reduction of an individual's body fat.
Fat cannot turn into muscle
Fat cannot be turned into muscle, as fat and muscle are two different tissues.
Body fat, also known as adipose tissue, is made up of triglycerides, which are made up of a glycerol backbone and three fatty acid chains.
Although there are different kinds of body fat, fat is composed solely of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen atoms.
Muscle tissue consists of bundles of muscle fibres called myofibrils, containing smaller fibres composed of long amino acids.
These amino acids, which have a unique nitrogen group in their chemical structure, are the basic building blocks of proteins.
As a result of these differences, neither muscle nor fat can be converted into the other.
Do your arms feel muscular?
Arms that have developed muscles feel firmer.
This is typically achieved through effort that includes exercise, strength training, and a healthy diet.
Strength training can also boost bone density, helping keep bones healthy.
Muscle burns calories, which can help manage and maintain weight.
Do your arms look smaller but jigglier?
Loss of skin elasticity is a common byproduct of ageing.
This often results in a flabby and saggy appearance.
Flabby arms, also known as “bat wings,” are a combination of sagging skin and stubborn excess fat.
Ageing, genetics, and muscle loss are among the causes of the condition.
Skin can stretch due to excess weight, which can damage collagen and elastin fibres.
This is why skin may not bounce back or retract after weight loss.
Do your arms look and feel the same size as before?
Fat in the arms is notoriously difficult to eliminate, even with the strictest of exercise and diet regimes.
Compared to men, women are more likely to be stricken with the issue of excess arm fat.
Genetic predisposition, hormonal imbalance and a sedentary lifestyle are just some possible causes.
The only proven and effective method to target fat in the area is via surgical intervention.
Arm Fat Surgical Option: Arm Liposuction Singapore
Arm Liposuction with MDC-Sculpt® Lipo technique is a procedure that eliminates fat and also tightens and contours the area.
It is an effective option for individuals who have persistent fat in the area despite their efforts to remove it.
Before starting this procedure, the individual must do their due research to find the right doctor.
Liposuction is a strictly regulated practice in Singapore, and only MOH-approved doctors can perform the procedure.
Additionally, liposuction can be a delicate procedure that calls for a doctor’s experience and aesthetic understanding.
This is not only about achieving results but, more importantly, about ensuring the patient’s safety and well-being.
The MDC-Sculpt®️ Lipo technique
The MDC-Sculpt®️ Lipo technique was developed by Dr Ivan Puah, Medical Director of Amaris B. Clinic.
His 20 years and counting of surgical experience and knowledge were the impetus behind his invention.
The proprietary technique and surgical approach eliminate fat via strategic incisions. It can also tighten skin and sculpt a physique. Scarring is also kept to a minimum.
The MDC-Sculpt®️ Lipo technique is designed to meet the diverse needs of patients.
Through his experience, Dr Puah understands that no two patients are alike, so a customised approach is needed to achieve the desired results safely and effectively.
Body sculpting is 70% art and 30% science, and this approach has enabled Dr Puah to help many patients achieve their realistic physical aspirations.
Contact us today to make an appointment with Dr Ivan Puah.
FAQ
Does arm lipo make arms saggy?
Loose, saggy skin can occur after liposuction.
This happens when the skin lacks adequate laxity and cannot bounce back and retract as expected.
It is quite a common issue among people who’ve experienced significant weight loss, not after arm liposuction.
What happens to the skin after arm liposuction?
Skin’s ability to bounce back and retract is dependent on several factors.
Age is one factor, and this ability is higher in younger people because they have good skin elasticity. Another factor is the volume of fat removed.
If an individual loses significant weight before lipo, the skin may already be loose.
This, in turn, may show after the procedure.
There are many variables, as no two persons are alike.
Does Amaris B. Clinic offer weight loss programmes?
At Amaris B. Clinic, Dr Ivan Puah offers customised weight loss programs for his patients.
A patient’s ideal BMI and lifestyle are considered before a weight loss approach is decided that best fits the patient’s needs.
Every plan is tailored and some of the strategies Dr Puah combine for sustainable weight loss include:
- Nutrition guide
- Safe calorie-deficit meal plan
- Fitness regime
- GLP-1 weight loss medications
Do GLP-1 weight loss medications cause loose skin?
While GLP-1 medications can lead to significant weight loss, the impact on skin elasticity varies from person to person. This is highly unlikely to happen if GLP-1 medications are taken under the close supervision of an experienced physician.
