Brachioplasty

As we age, the natural loss of elastin in our skin leads to a less youthful and tight appearance. This can be especially noticeable in the area under the arms, resulting in sagging skin. Those who have experienced significant weight loss may also develop excess skin and drooping in the arm area. An arm lift, or brachioplasty, can address these issues by removing excess skin and fat from the upper arms.

Our highly experienced, board-certified plastic surgeons have performed thousands of cosmetic and reconstructive procedures. We invite you to book a consultation to discuss your goals and treatment options.

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Arm lift benefits:

  • Improved Appearance: Brachioplasty can provide a more sculpted and toned appearance to the upper arms, which can enhance overall body confidence and self-esteem.

  • Removal of Sagging Skin: Brachioplasty can remove sagging or loose skin on the upper arms, which can occur due to aging, weight loss, or other factors.

  • Reduction of Excess Fat: Brachioplasty can remove excess fat in the upper arms, which can be resistant to diet and exercise.

  • Increased Mobility: Patients who undergo brachioplasty may experience increased mobility and range of motion in their arms.

  • Relief from Chafing: Brachioplasty can relieve the discomfort and irritation caused by excess skin rubbing against clothing, which can lead to chafing and rashes.

Brachioplasty, also known as an arm lift, is a surgical procedure that reshapes the upper arms by removing excess skin and fat deposits, typically resulting in smoother, tighter, and more defined arms. The procedure is usually performed on patients who have lost a significant amount of weight or have experienced sagging skin due to natural aging. During the procedure, an incision is made along the upper arm, excess fat is removed and the skin is tightened and sutured back into place. The surgery can be performed under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation, and patients typically experience a few weeks of recovery time.

What to Expect

Brachioplasty can yield immediate results, with the arms appearing smoother and tighter right after the surgery. Although there may be some swelling and bruising, the effects of the procedure are long-lasting as long as patients maintain a relatively stable weight. However, some skin laxity may eventually occur with aging.

During the procedure, the anesthesiologist administers IV sedation or general anesthesia, and a local anesthetic is injected to minimize postoperative pain. An incision is made in the bicep groove or back of the arm, and excess fat may be removed via excision or liposuction. The incision is closed with absorbable sutures that minimize scarring.

Arm Lift Recovery and Aftercare

Most arm lift patients feel fully recovered within six weeks and can return to work within a week, with normal activities and exercises resuming after four to six weeks. After the procedure, we place a small bulb drain that needs to be emptied twice a day to remove excess fluid that may collect around the incision to prevent swelling and promote healing. We also wrap the incision with a compressive wrap or garment for two weeks, except during bathing, and then at night for an additional two weeks to reduce swelling and provide gentle compression. Pain medication is prescribed to help patients feel more comfortable, and ice or heating pads should not be used. Patients should not lift anything over 10 pounds, raise their arms overhead, or perform any strenuous pushing or pulling motions for two weeks. Patients can shower after 48 hours but should avoid baths and submerging their arms in water for at least four weeks. If a patient experiences any symptoms of infection or fever, they should contact their surgeon immediately. To promote better healing, we advise patients not to smoke for at least six weeks after the procedure.

Medical Review: This procedural information has been medically reviewed by plastic and reconstructive surgeon, Brian A. Cripe, M.D.

Brachioplasty Before and After Photos

For privacy, we reserve the majority of before and after photos for viewing during in-office consultations. The cases presented are representative and shared with permission.

Brachioplasty FAQs

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average cost of a brachioplasty procedure is approximately $4,800, though prices may vary. During your consultation, a board-certified plastic surgeon will provide a final quote that includes all additional fees such as surgeon fees, anesthesia fees, hospital or surgical facility fees, medical tests, post-surgery garments, post-operative care, prescriptions, and post-operative scar lasering procedures. Please set up a consultation with one of our surgeons to learn more about the procedure and to receive a personalized quote.

We typically recommend brachioplasty to patients who are in good health, maintain a stable weight, do not smoke, and have excess skin or underarm fat that bothers them. BMI is also a consideration. Patients must also have a clear understanding of the anticipated outcomes and limitations of the procedure.
At our practice, we offer interest-free financing options through Care Credit and PatientFi.

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Book Your Arm Lift Consultation

Our experienced, board-certified plastic surgeons would love to bring you in for a consultation to discuss your goals and treatment options. Fill out this form to receive a call-back shortly, or give us a call at 928-774-2300.