What is an arm lift?

Fluctuations in weight and growing older and heredity can cause your upper arms to have a drooping, sagging appearance. An arm lift, also known as brachioplasty, is a surgical procedure that reshapes the upper arm to create a more toned and youthful appearance. It reduces excess sagging skin, tightens and smooths the supportive tissue and eliminates localized fat deposits.

During the procedure, incisions are made along the underside of the upper arm, excess skin and fat are removed, and the remaining skin is tightened and secured with sutures.

Who is a candidate for an arm lift?

Arm lift surgery may be right for you if the underside of your upper arms is sagging or appears loose and full due to excess skin and fat.

This is a condition that cannot be corrected through exercise.

What to expect

Before the procedure:

• Undergo lab testing or a medical evaluation.
• Take or adjust certain medications as advised by your doctor.
• Stop smoking.
• Avoid taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs and herbal supplements, as they can increase bleeding.
• Arrange for someone to drive you to and from surgery and stay with you for at least the first night after the procedure.

The procedure typically lasts one to two hours.

After the procedure:

• During your recovery from arm lift surgery, dressings or bandages may be applied to your incisions, and your arms may be wrapped in an elastic bandage or a compression garment to minimize swelling following surgery.
• You should keep your incision sites dry for 24 hours.
• A small, thin tube may be temporarily placed under the skin to drain any excess blood or fluid.
• There will be bruising and swelling that will be expected to go away in about three weeks. You should avoid lifting for the first few weeks after surgery. 
• Incisions will be closed either with absorbable sutures or stitches that will be removed within one to two weeks following your arm lift.
• You will receive detailed instructions on caring for the surgical site and drains, medications to apply or take orally to aid healing, specific concerns to look for, and when to follow up with your plastic surgeon.

Benefits of an arm lift

If you are bothered by loose or sagging skin on your upper arms, an arm lift may be the ideal solution for you. This surgical procedure can effectively reduce excess skin, tighten underlying tissue and remove pockets of fat in the upper arm region.

Here are some of the benefits you can expect:

• Enhanced Arm Appearance: Arm lift surgery can significantly improve the appearance of your upper arms, resulting in smoother, tighter and more youthful contours.
• Improved Confidence: By addressing the issue of sagging skin and fat in the upper arms, individuals often experience a boost in self-confidence and feel more comfortable wearing clothing that reveals their arms.
• Increased Physical Activity: With firmer and more toned upper arms, patients may find it easier to engage in physical activities and sports, leading to a healthier and more active lifestyle.