Arm Lift Procedure

What You Should Know

An arm lift, or brachioplasty, is a surgical procedure aimed at improving the appearance of the upper arms by removing excess skin and fat. This procedure is commonly performed on individuals who have experienced significant weight loss or aging, resulting in sagging skin. An arm lift tightens and contours the arm area, creating a smoother, more toned appearance. It can also improve self-confidence by restoring a more youthful arm shape.

What is an Arm Lift?

An Arm Lift, or Brachioplasty, is a surgical treatment to eliminate loose skin and fatty tissue from the upper arm, leaving a more defined, sculpted look. It’s often requested after significant weight loss or to correct age-related skin sag. The goal is to restore a firmer, more youthful silhouette between the underarm and the elbow.

Who Is a Good Candidate for an Arm Lift?

You might be a good candidate if:

  • You have loose, hanging skin or a “bat wing” appearance in the upper arms
  • You are at a stable, healthy weight
  • You don’t smoke (or are agreeable to quitting prior to and after surgery)
  • You are healthy and have realistic expectations regarding the scarring and healing
  • You are uncomfortable with your arms in tight sleeves or sleeveless outfits

How Is the Procedure Performed?

An Arm Lift is done under general anesthesia and usually lasts 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on the degree of correction. The surgery includes:

  • Incision along the inner arm (from armpit to elbow, or shorter for minimal sagging)
  • Excess skin and fat removal
  • Tightening of underlying tissues for smoother contours
  • In some instances, liposuction is added for further shaping

What Kind of Scars Should I Anticipate?

A scar is required to eliminate and tighten the skin. Typical locations for incisions are:

  • Inner-arm incision (most popular): Down the inside of the upper arm
  • Minimal incision: For patients with minimal sagging, confined to the armpit

Scars do fade with time and can be controlled with proper care, but they are permanent. Most patients, though, find the change in arm shape far outweighs the appearance of scars.

What Is Recovery Like After an Arm Lift?

  • Downtime: 1–2 weeks
  • Compression garments are worn to minimize swelling and promote healing
  • Drains may be placed temporarily
  • Steer clear of arm lifting above shoulder level and heavy exercise for 4–6 weeks
  • Back to work within 7–10 days, depending upon the type of work you do
  • Peak effects are apparent after 6–12 weeks, with ongoing improvement as swelling clears

Will I Be in Pain After Surgery?

Some tightness, swelling, or discomfort is to be expected in the first few days. This can be effectively controlled with medications prescribed and supportive wear. It is described by most of the patients as mild to moderate and temporary.

Are the Results of an Arm Lift Permanent?

Yes — the removal of excess skin and fat is permanent. However, maintaining a stable weight is essential. Significant weight gain or loss after surgery may affect your results. Natural aging will continue, but you’ll enjoy a smoother, more contoured appearance for many years.

Is Liposuction a Substitute for an Arm Lift?

No. Liposuction reduces fat, but it cannot be used to treat loose or excess skin. In certain instances, liposuction is performed along with an Arm Lift to maximize outcomes — particularly when the elasticity of the skin remains excellent.

What Are the Risks of Arm Lift Surgery?

All operations pose risks, although complications are unlikely when the operation is performed by an experienced plastic surgeon. The possible risks are:

  • Bleeding or infection
  • Poor healing or scarring
  • Numbness or loss of feeling in the skin
  • Asymmetry

Your surgeon will outline all possible risks and assist you with measures to avoid them.

Is it possible to combine an Arm Lift with Other Procedures?

Yes. It is frequently done as a secondary procedure in post-weight-loss body contouring and can be blended with:

  • Tummy Tuck
  • Liposuction
  • Breast Lift or Augmentation
  • Thigh Lift

Multiple procedures may decrease the overall recovery time and improve body harmony.

Regain Confidence in Every Sleeve

If your arms no longer make you feel like the person on the inside, an Arm Lift can restore your confidence and allow you to enjoy wearing what you love without worrying about how it looks. It’s not just about looks — it’s about feeling unrestricted in your own body again.

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