Arm Lift

Fluctuations in weight, growing older and heredity can cause your upper arms to have a drooping, sagging appearance that can’t be improved through exercise. An arm lift, or brachioplasty, is a surgical procedure that improves the appearance of the skin and tone of the upper arms.

Arm lift surgery may be right for you if the underside of your upper arms are sagging or appear loose and full due to excess skin and fat.

What benefits can an arm lift give me?

An arm lift can give your arms a more youthful, defined look and may be a good choice for adults with significant loose skin on their upper arms.  Benefits of the procedure include:

• Reducing the excess sagging skin that droops downward
• Tightening and smoothing the underlying supportive tissue that defines the shape of the upper arm
• Reducing localized pockets of fat in the upper arm region

What can I expect during an arm lift?

Most arm lift procedures are performed while the patient is under general anesthesia, and both arms are operated on during a single procedure. Incisions are generally placed on the inside of the arm or on the back of the arm and may extend from the underarm to just above the elbow. The length and pattern of the incision during arm lift surgery depend on the amount and location of the excess skin that is being removed, as well as the best judgment of your plastic surgeon.

Once the incision is made, excess fat is removed or treated with liposuction. Then, the underlying supportive tissue is tightened and reshaped with internal sutures. Finally, the skin is smoothed over the new contour of your arm and the incision is closed.

What can I expect during recovery from an arm lift?

During your recovery from arm lift 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 following surgery.

A small, thin tube may be temporarily placed under the skin to drain any excess blood or fluid.

You will be given specific instructions on how to care for your surgical site and drains, medications to apply or take orally to aid healing, specific concerns to look for and when to follow up with your plastic surgeon.

Is an arm lift right for me?

To determine whether or not an arm lift is the right procedure for you, schedule a consultation with one of our board-certified plastic surgeons. During your visit, your doctor will speak with you about the goals you have for your appearance. In addition to deciding on your treatment plan, your doctor will ask you about your medical history. Bring a list of medications, supplements and vitamins you take, and have a list prepared of the questions or concerns you may have, as being open with our specialists is key to a safe and successful surgery.