Arm Lift (Brachioplasty)

Treatment

Arm Lift (Brachioplasty)

Arm lift surgery is an aesthetic surgical procedure performed to reduce sagging skin and excess tissue on the upper arm, particularly in the area between the armpit and the elbow. It is commonly called an arm lift and is known medically as brachioplasty.

Aging, genetics, reduced skin elasticity and significant weight loss can lead to a loose, sagging appearance on the underside of the upper arm. This appearance may not fully improve with exercise and weight control. Arm lift surgery reduces excess skin, helping the arms look smoother and more proportionate.

What Is an Arm Lift?

During arm lift surgery, excess skin on the underside of the upper arm is removed, the supporting tissues are tightened and, if necessary, localized fat is reduced with liposuction.

With this procedure:

• Excess skin on the upper arm can be reduced,
• A sagging appearance can be tightened,
• The contour between the armpit and the elbow can be improved,
• Areas with excess fat can be reshaped,
• The arms can be brought into better proportion with the body.

An arm lift is not intended for weight loss. The procedure is mainly aimed at correcting excess skin and skin laxity that remain after weight loss.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Arm Lift Surgery?

Good candidates for an arm lift are generally people who:

• Have noticeable sagging skin on the upper arms,
• Have a largely stable weight,
• Are in good enough overall health for surgery,
• Have no serious medical condition that could impair healing,
• Do not smoke or are able to quit before surgery,
• Have realistic expectations.

Arm lift surgery may be considered especially for people who develop excess skin on their arms after significant weight loss. For patients with mild skin laxity whose main concern is excess fat, other treatment options may be more appropriate.

The Difference Between an Arm Lift and Liposuction

The appropriate method is determined by evaluating the amount of excess skin, skin quality, fat distribution and the patient's expectations.

How Is Arm Lift Surgery Performed?

The stages of arm lift surgery are generally as follows:

1. Examination and Planning

   Excess skin and fat on the inner and back of the upper arm are evaluated.

2. Anesthesia

   An appropriate form of anesthesia is used depending on the patient's health and the extent of the procedure.

3. Incision Planning

   The length of the incision is determined by the amount of skin to be removed.

4. Removal of Excess Skin

   Excess skin is removed; liposuction may be performed if needed.

5. Shaping the Supporting Tissues

   The underlying tissues may be rearranged to give the arm a smoother contour.

6. Closing the Incisions

   The incision is closed with surgical sutures.

The incision is usually placed on the inner or back of the arm and may extend from the armpit toward the elbow. Shorter incision techniques may be considered for people with more limited excess skin.

Preparing for Surgery

During the examination, your medical history, current medications and any chronic conditions are evaluated. Blood tests or additional medical checks may be requested when necessary.

Before surgery, the following may be required:

• Stopping smoking and the use of nicotine products,
• Adjusting medications that may increase bleeding risk under your doctor's supervision,
• Avoiding aspirin, certain painkillers and herbal supplements unless recommended by your doctor,
• Arranging a companion and transportation for after surgery,
• Having the recommended medical compression garment ready.

These steps may be required depending on your individual situation.

Recovery After an Arm Lift

After surgery, dressings or bandages may be applied to the incision sites. An elastic bandage or compression garment may be recommended to reduce swelling. In some patients, a temporary drain may be placed to reduce fluid buildup.

During recovery, it is important to:

• Protect the incision area as your doctor advises,
• Avoid overstretching the arms,
• Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise,
• Wear the medical compression garment for the recommended period,
• Attend all follow-up appointments.

The timing of your return to daily activities and exercise is determined individually, based on the extent of the surgery and how quickly you heal.

Does Arm Lift Surgery Leave Scars?

Because skin is removed during arm lift surgery, an incision scar is expected. The length of the scar varies depending on the amount of skin removed and the surgical technique used.

The incision is usually planned on the inner or back of the arm. Over time, scars may lighten in color and become less noticeable; however, no surgical procedure can guarantee a completely scar-free result.

Risks of Arm Lift Surgery

As with any surgical procedure, arm lift surgery carries risks. Possible risks include:

• Bleeding,
• Infection,
• Fluid accumulation,
• Delayed wound healing,
• Skin numbness or changes in sensation,
• Damage to nerves, blood vessels or deeper tissues,
• Persistent pain,
• Noticeable scarring,
• Irritation caused by suture material,
• The need for revision surgery.

Individual risks should be explained by your surgeon after a preoperative examination and health assessment.

When Are Arm Lift Results Visible?

The firmer, smoother contour of the arm may be noticeable soon after surgery. However, swelling and bruising may affect the initial appearance. As healing progresses, the results become more evident.

To preserve the results over the long term, it is important to maintain a stable weight and healthy lifestyle habits. Aging and significant weight changes may affect the appearance of the skin over time.

Arm Lift Cost

The cost of an arm lift varies depending on the extent of the surgery, the amount of skin to be removed, whether liposuction will be performed, anesthesia, hospital arrangements and postoperative care needs.

For this reason, there is no single arm lift price that applies to every patient. The exact fee is determined after an examination and personalized treatment planning.

Frequently Asked Questions About Arm Lift

The information on this page is for general informational purposes only. Suitability for arm lift surgery, the method and the risks should be evaluated after a personal examination.