Upper Arm Lift (Brachioplasty)

An arm lift, also known as brachioplasty, is a surgical procedure to remove loose skin and excess fat deposits in the upper arm. With age, upper arm skin can become loose and flabby. Plastic surgeons will discuss brachioplasty with patients who want to tighten this skin and look as good as they can. In some cases your plastic surgeon may suggest that liposuction be used alone or in conjunction with an arm lift to remove excess fat in the upper arms.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)

The information presented below is only for informational purposes. Your surgeon will talk to you about details regarding your specific procedure.

What are the most common benefits of an upper arm lift?

Undergoing this procedure will allow you to have a more youthful appearance and thinner contour to the arms. It can also reduce the flabbiness, extra skin and fat, especially in the upper inner arms and give you an improved appearance in related folds of skin and fat on the upper chest near the armpit, which are particularly apparent when the arms are down at the sides. Finally, the results are long lasting.

What can I expect during the initial consultation?

During the initial consultation, you and your surgeon will discuss the changes you want to make in your appearance. They will then explain the different options available to you, the procedure itself, and its risks and limitations and the kind of anesthesia required. Your surgeon will also get a complete medical history and may give you specific instructions on preparing for surgery, including guidelines for eating and drinking, smoking, and taking or avoiding vitamins, supplements and medications. Routine laboratory tests may be required before surgery.

Note: An arm lift procedure does not affect muscle tone. Talk to your doctor about how to tone and firm the muscle beneath the skin both before and after your procedure. Take this time to ask all the questions you have about the surgery. Learning everything you can about your options, risks and benefits is the key to making an informed decision.

How is this surgery performed and how long does the procedure take?

Your doctor may offer you the choice between using a local or general anesthetic; however, most patients are most comfortable with a general anesthetic for this procedure. The surgeon begins by marking the area of excess skin, with the patient either standing or sitting. The anesthesia is administered and then incisions are made on the inner and under surface of the arm, most often in a zigzagged line. The pattern of skin removal usually follows an elliptical or triangular shape. Often some fat is suctioned at the same time. The surgical opening may run from the armpit to as low as the elbow. While the excess skin and fat is removed, the remaining skin is stretched and sutured into place. Occasionally a drain is used to lead excess fluids from the site of incision, allowing the skin better to adhere to the tissue beneath. The incisions are then bandaged. An arm lift usually takes about two hours.

How much pain is there?

You may experience moderate pain after this procedure. Pain medication, prescribed by your surgeon, can help make you comfortable. After a few days acetaminophen and/or ibuprofen may be all that you require. But avoid aspirin; as it can increase the risk of bleeding and bruising.

What can I expect after surgery?

After the procedure you will feel groggy. Your arm will be placed in a special compression garment to help the newly-sculpted skin adhere to the tissue underneath. You will probably have several layers of stitches on the upper arm, possibly with a drain inserted to help the skin to adhere to the underlying tissue. Some of the stitches will be absorbable, and some may have to be removed by your surgeon during a follow-up visit. After a brief stay in the recovery room, you will be allowed to go home.

What is the recovery period like?

For the first week following surgery, you will have to avoid strenuous activity, including bending and lifting. You will be able to shower on the third day after surgery. The swelling is usually mild to moderate, and peaks at two to three days. Any stitches that are not absorbed will be removed after about a week. Some grogginess may persist for 5-7 days. In general, the recovery period after an arm lift generally lasts one to two weeks. You'll probably be able to return to work in a week, and resume exercise within two weeks. Strenuous workouts and contact sports can be engaged in after about four weeks.