Search
Close this search box.

Arm Lift

A number of factors, including weight fluctuation, age, and genetics can cause your upper arms to droop or sag.

You may have improved the underlying muscle tone of your upper arm, but exercise will not help the extra skin that has lost its elasticity, underlying weakened tissues or localized fat deposits. An arm lift can:

  • Reduce excess skin and fat between the underarm and the elbow.
  • Reshape your arm to result in smoother skin and contours.
  • Result in a more toned and proportionate appearance.

An arm lift, or Brachioplasty, is a surgical procedure that reshapes the under portion of the upper arm, from the underarm region to the elbow. The procedure is performed to:

  • Reduce excess sagging skin that droops downward​
  • Tighten and smooth the underlying supportive tissue that defines the shape of the upper arm
  • Reduce localized pockets of fat in the upper arm region​.

In general, candidates for an arm lift include:

  • Adults with significant upper arm skin laxity​.
  • Adults of any age whose weight is relatively stable and who are not significantly overweight​.
  • Healthy individuals who do not have medical conditions that can impair healing or increase the risk of surgery​.
  • Non-smokers​.
  • Individuals with a positive outlook and realistic expectations​.

A special note: In order to achieve your improved image, there will be a scar on the inside of your upper arm.

Your consultation is your time to ask the doctor about the procedure you’re considering, how he thinks it will work for you and any concerns you may have. We suggest you come prepared with your questions on paper so you’re sure to ask the questions important to you.

When you arrive at the office, you will be asked to fill out a few pieces of paperwork. It is very important when asked about medications to put down all medications you take, including any supplements or aspirin-type regimens, since these items can impact your blood clotting and pressure. In addition, you need to be truthful about your use of tobacco and alcohol since this will affect your recovery and incision healing.

Before you see the doctor, a nurse or nurse practitioner will do an initial exam. You may be able to get a number of your questions answered while with the nurse.

Your surgeon will discuss several factors regarding surgery during your initial consultation, including your procedure, location, anesthesia and recovery. In addition, the surgeon will inquire about your concerns, priorities and motivations for pursuing surgery, as well as your fears.

The doctors are sure to address reasonable expectations for the outcome of your desired procedure, and they should explain what is possible and what is not possible.

After your consultation with the physician, you will meet with the practice manager to discuss procedure costs.

There are a number of things to do prior to your procedure that will make your recovery as smooth as possible and ease your pre-procedure anxiety.

Your surgeon will give you instructions on what medications to stop taking prior to your surgery to prevent any unwanted side effects. Medications you shouldn’t take up to two weeks prior to your surgery include, but are not limited to, aspirin and products containing aspirin, alcohol and herbal supplements. Your surgeon may advise you to take Arnica Montana, Bromelain or vitamins A or K for swelling, bruising and to promote general healing.

Anesthesia: Medications are administered for your comfort during the surgical procedures. The choices include intravenous sedation and general anesthesia. Your doctor will recommend the best choice for you.

The incision: Incision length and pattern depend on the amount and location of excess skin to be removed, as well as the best judgment of your plastic surgeon.

Incisions are generally placed on the inside of the arm or on the back of the arm, depending on the surgeon’s preference, and may extend from the underarm (axilla) to just above the elbow. If fat is to be reduced during your arm lift, it will be excised or treated with liposuction.

Inner Arm Incision​


Back of Arm Incision

Minimal Incision

Closing the incisions: Your incisions will be closed with absorbable sutures, or stitches that will be removed within 1-2 weeks following your arm lift.

Results: The smoother, tighter contours that result from Brachioplasty are apparent almost immediately following your procedure, although initial results will be somewhat obscured by swelling and bruising. Your new, shapely and toned upper arm is dramatically improved both in appearance and feel.

Following your surgery, dressings or bandages may be applied to your incisions, and your arms may be wrapped in an elastic bandage or a compression garment to minimize swelling. A small, thin tube may be temporarily placed under the skin to drain any excess blood or fluid that may collect.

Recovery is an important part of any surgery, and you must take the doctor’s orders to heart if you want to heal as quickly as possible.

You will be given specific instructions that may include: how to care for the surgical site, medications to apply or take orally to aid healing and reduce the potential for infection, specific concerns to look for at the surgical site or in overall health, and when to follow up with your plastic surgeon.

Be sure to ask your plastic surgeon specific questions about what you can expect during your individual recovery period.