Arm Lift Surgery
Loose skin along the upper arms can be a source of frustration and self-consciousness, often limiting clothing choices and affecting overall confidence. Brachioplasty, also known as an arm lift, is a surgical procedure designed to remove excess skin and fat from the underside of the upper arms, creating a firmer, more contoured appearance from the underarm to the elbow.
By addressing sagging skin that cannot be corrected through diet or exercise alone, brachioplasty can help patients feel more comfortable, confident, and proportionate.
Who Is A Good Candidate For Brachioplasty?
Brachioplasty may be appropriate for individuals who experience loose or hanging skin of the upper arms due to:
- Significant weight loss
- Natural aging and loss of skin elasticity
- Genetics leading to underarm fullness or laxity.
Ideal candidates are generally in good overall health, at a stable weight, and not significantly overweight. Patients who have undergone major weight loss often experience particularly transformative results, as excess skin in this area frequently does not retract on its own.
Before Scheduling Surgery
Your journey begins with a comprehensive consultation to evaluate the degree of excess skin and fat, discuss goals, and determine whether brachioplasty alone or in combination with liposuction is recommended. Incision placement and length vary depending on the amount and location of excess tissue and are discussed in detail during consultation.
Incisions may extend from the underarm to just above the elbow when necessary. While scarring is unavoidable, incision appearance typically fades significantly over time.
A full medical history and physical evaluation are completed to ensure you are an appropriate candidate for surgery. Brachioplasty is most often performed as an outpatient procedure, allowing patients to recover at home the same day. Follow-up visits are scheduled to monitor healing and results.
The Brachioplasty Procedure
Brachioplasty is performed under IV sedation and typically takes two to three hours, depending on the extent of correction and whether additional procedures are performed. It is commonly combined with other body contouring surgeries, such as abdominoplasty or breast surgery, for comprehensive transformation.
Incisions are carefully placed along the inner or posterior arm to minimize visibility. Underlying tissue is tightened and reshaped with internal sutures, and the skin is redraped smoothly over the new contour. Results are visible immediately, though swelling and bruising are expected during early recovery.
In some cases, liposuction is used as a complementary technique to remove excess fat and further refine arm contours. Liposuction alone is often insufficient for treating loose skin, which is why it is considered a supportive, not standalone, component of arm lift surgery.
Recovery After Brachioplasty
Following surgery, incisions are covered with bandages, and the arms are gently wrapped with elastic dressings to minimize swelling. Small drains may be placed temporarily to assist with fluid removal.
- Follow-Up: Typically, within one to two days after surgery
- Activity Restrictions: Arms should not be lifted above shoulder level for approximately 3–4 weeks
- Exercise: Strenuous activity should be avoided for up to 8 weeks
- Discomfort: Generally manageable with prescribed medication
As healing progresses, swelling subsides, and the arms take on a smoother, more defined appearance.
Patient Reviews
Benefits of Brachioplasty
- Improved arm contour and firmness
- Reduced excess skin following weight loss
- Increased confidence in sleeveless clothing
- Long-lasting, proportionate results
*Individual results and experiences may vary.
Schedule Your Consultation
To learn more about your treatment options and whether a surgical or nonsurgical procedure is right for you, please call (859) 255-6649 or CLICK HERE to complete the contact form to schedule your consultation. Wells Plastic Surgery & Skin Care proudly serves Lexington, Kentucky, and the surrounding areas.
