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Arm Lift (Brachioplasty)

Achieve firmer, more toned arms with arm lift surgery that removes excess skin and tissue for a smoother, more youthful upper arm contour.

Procedure Time
2-3 Hours
Recovery Time
1-2 Weeks
Anesthesia
General
Results
Long-lasting

About Arm Lift Surgery

An arm lift, medically known as brachioplasty, is a cosmetic surgery procedure designed to remove excess sagging skin and fat from the upper arms, creating a more toned, contoured, and youthful arm appearance.

Dr. RIDHA specializes in advanced arm lift techniques that minimize scarring while maximizing results. Whether you have excess skin from aging, weight loss, or genetics, brachioplasty can restore firmer, smoother arm contours that allow you to wear sleeveless clothing with confidence.

During your consultation, Dr. RIDHA will assess your arm anatomy, discuss your aesthetic goals, and recommend the most appropriate surgical approach to achieve natural-looking, proportionate results.

  • Board-certified plastic surgeon with 20+ years of experience
  • Customized incision placement to minimize visible scarring
  • Advanced techniques for optimal skin tightening
  • Can be combined with liposuction for enhanced contouring
  • Comprehensive post-operative care and scar management
Plastic Surgeon
Board Certified
20+ Years
Experience
98% Rating
Patient Satisfaction

Benefits of Arm Lift Surgery

Remove Excess Skin

Eliminate sagging, loose skin from the upper arms for a firmer, more toned appearance.

Tighter Arm Contours

Achieve smooth, well-defined arm contours that complement your overall body shape.

Enhanced Confidence

Feel more confident wearing sleeveless clothing, dresses, and swimwear without self-consciousness.

Improved Arm Proportion

Restore balanced, proportionate arm contours that harmonize with your body frame.

Better Clothing Fit

Enjoy improved fit in shirts, dresses, and other clothing without arm tightness or bulging.

Long-lasting Results

With proper weight maintenance, arm lift results can last for many years.

Am I a Good Candidate?

Arm lift surgery may be right for you if you meet the following criteria:

✓ You May Be a Good Candidate If:

  • You are in good overall health with no serious medical conditions that impair healing
  • You have realistic expectations about the outcomes of brachioplasty
  • You have significant excess skin on the upper arms that does not improve with exercise
  • You are at or near your ideal body weight and have maintained it for at least 6 months
  • You have completed major weight loss and your weight has stabilized
  • You are a non-smoker or willing to quit smoking at least 4 weeks before and after surgery
  • You are bothered by sagging, drooping upper arms that affect your clothing choices
  • You are committed to maintaining a healthy lifestyle and stable weight after surgery

Procedure Details

Duration
2-3 Hours
Procedure time varies based on extent of correction needed
Anesthesia
General
Performed under general anesthesia for maximum comfort
Location
Outpatient
Performed in accredited surgical facility
Recovery
1-2 Weeks
Most patients return to work within 1-2 weeks
Results
2-3 Months
Final results visible after swelling subsides completely
Incision
Inner Arm
Incision along inner arm from elbow to armpit, often well-concealed

Recovery Timeline

Recovery from arm lift surgery is typically faster than other body contouring procedures. Most patients follow this general timeline:

1
Immediate Recovery

First 1-2 Weeks

Days 1-14

Initial recovery phase with most restrictions

  • Mild to moderate discomfort managed with prescribed pain medication
  • Swelling, bruising, and tightness in upper arms (peaks at 48-72 hours)
  • Surgical drains may be in place to remove excess fluid (typically 3-7 days)
  • Compression garment worn 24/7 to reduce swelling and support healing
  • Limited arm movement; avoid lifting arms above shoulder level
  • No lifting over 5 pounds or strenuous arm activities
  • Keep incisions clean and dry; follow wound care instructions
2
Short-term Recovery

Weeks 2-6

Days 15-42

Gradual return to normal activities with continued healing

  • Decreased pain and swelling; most discomfort subsides
  • Drains removed (if present) once drainage decreases sufficiently
  • Return to light work after 1-2 weeks (avoid lifting or repetitive arm motions)
  • Continue wearing compression garment as directed (usually 4-6 weeks)
  • Begin gentle arm stretching and range-of-motion exercises
  • Incision care and scar management protocols begin
  • Avoid heavy lifting, reaching overhead, or vigorous arm activities
3
Long-term Recovery

Months 2-6

Weeks 6+

Full recovery and final results emerge

  • Swelling gradually subsides; see dramatic improvement in arm contour
  • Cleared for all normal activities including exercise after 6-8 weeks
  • Resume strength training and high-impact workouts gradually
  • Scar continues to fade and flatten over 12-18 months
  • Final arm contour visible by 2-3 months post-surgery
  • Maintain stable weight and healthy lifestyle for lasting results
  • Long-term: Annual follow-ups to monitor healing and address concerns

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some of the most common questions about arm lift surgery. Contact us if you have additional questions.

Yes, arm lift surgery results in a permanent scar along the inner arm from the elbow to the armpit. However, Dr. RIDHA places the incision strategically on the inner arm where it is less visible. Scars are initially pink or red but fade significantly over 12-18 months. Following scar care instructions helps minimize their appearance.
Yes, liposuction is often combined with arm lift surgery to remove excess fat and enhance arm contouring. This combination can provide more dramatic results, especially if you have both excess skin and stubborn fat deposits in the upper arms. Dr. RIDHA will determine if liposuction is appropriate during your consultation.
The cost of arm lift surgery varies based on the extent of correction needed, surgical technique, anesthesia, and facility fees. During your consultation, we will provide a detailed cost breakdown tailored to your specific procedure. We offer flexible financing options to make your surgery affordable.
Arm lift results are long-lasting, but significant weight gain can stretch the skin and affect your results. Maintaining a stable weight through healthy diet and exercise is essential to preserving your arm contours. Minor weight fluctuations (5-10 pounds) typically do not impact results significantly.
Light walking is encouraged immediately after surgery to promote circulation. You can resume lower body exercises after 2-3 weeks. Upper body exercises, weight training, and activities involving arm movements should be avoided for at least 6-8 weeks. Dr. RIDHA will provide personalized guidelines based on your healing progress.
A standard arm lift addresses the upper arm from elbow to armpit with an incision along the inner arm. An extended arm lift continues the incision along the side of the chest to address excess skin that extends to the armpit and lateral chest area. Dr. RIDHA will recommend the best approach based on your anatomy and goals.
Arm lift results are considered long-lasting as long as you maintain a stable weight and healthy lifestyle. Surgically removed skin does not grow back. However, natural aging and gravity can affect your results over time. With proper care, most patients enjoy their arm lift results for many years.