Arm Lift
An arm lift, or brachioplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the upper arms, creating a firmer and more toned appearance.
Arm Lift
Overview
An arm lift is a restorative procedure designed to help you achieve the toned, sculpted arms you’ve always wanted—or restore the shape you had before weight changes or aging took their toll. By removing excess skin, tightening tissues, and refining contours, this procedure addresses areas that may not respond to diet or exercise alone.
Whether you’re seeking to eliminate sagging skin after significant weight loss or improve definition for a more youthful look, an arm lift can help you feel confident and slimmer, firmer arms that empower you to embrace your appearance
What Types of Arm Lifts Do We Offer?
Arm lifts can be customized to meet your specific goals:
Traditional Arm Lift: Ideal for patients with significant skin laxity, this approach involves an incision from the underarm to the elbow to remove excess skin and fat.
Mini Arm Lift: For patients with minimal sagging, this option uses a smaller incision near the underarm to tighten and reshape the upper arms.
Extended Arm Lift: For patients with skin laxity extending to the chest or sides, this technique includes additional incisions to address these areas and create a smoother, more balanced contour.
Each method is designed to provide natural-looking results while minimizing visible scarring.
About the Procedure
Why are Arm Lifts Done?
Arm lifts are performed to:
- Remove sagging skin and stubborn fat from the upper arms.
- Improve the appearance of arms after significant weight loss.
- Address age-related changes in skin elasticity.
- Enhance confidence in wearing sleeveless or fitted clothing.
By achieving firmer and more toned arms, an arm lift can significantly improve both appearance and comfort.
How Long Do Arm Lift Results Last?
The results of an arm lift are long-lasting, especially when paired with a stable weight and a healthy lifestyle. While natural aging can affect skin elasticity over time, maintaining a healthy weight helps preserve the procedure’s outcomes.
Who is a Good Candidate for an Arm Lift?
Good candidates for an arm lift include individuals who:
- Experience sagging skin or excess fat on the upper arms.
- Are close to their target weight and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
- Are nonsmokers or can quit before surgery.
- Have realistic expectations and a commitment to post-surgical care.
How to Prepare for an Arm Lift
Patients should stop smoking at least four weeks before surgery, as smoking can impair healing. Your surgeon may also advise you to avoid certain medications, such as blood thinners, that increase bleeding risk. It’s important to arrange for transportation and post-surgery care, as you’ll need assistance during the initial recovery period. Prior to surgery, your surgeon will provide specific instructions on fasting and any pre-operative tests. Following these guidelines closely will help ensure a successful procedure and optimal results.
What Happens During the Surgery?
An arm lift is performed under general anesthesia and typically lasts two to three hours. After marking the incision lines, the surgeon makes an incision tailored to the chosen technique—along the underarm, from the underarm to the elbow, or extended to the chest for broader contouring. Excess skin and fat are removed, and liposuction is performed for additional sculpting. The remaining tissue is tightened, and incisions are closed with sutures. Finally, compression garments are applied to support healing and minimize swelling.
Risks
As with any surgery, risks include infection, bleeding, and anesthesia complications. Visible scarring is also a risk. Temporary numbness or asymmetry may also result from the procedure. Following your surgeon’s instructions and attending follow-up appointments can minimize risks and support a smooth recovery.
Benefits
An arm lift provides both physical and emotional benefits by creating firmer, smoother, and more proportionate upper arms. It enhances confidence, allowing you to feel comfortable wearing sleeveless or fitted clothing. The procedure complements the results of weight loss or other body contouring treatments, helping to achieve a balanced and harmonious appearance. By addressing sagging skin and stubborn fat, an arm lift improves overall comfort and restores a more youthful, toned look, empowering you to feel confident and proud of your transformation.
Recovery
Recovery from an arm lift typically takes two to four weeks. Most patients can resume light activities within a week but should avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for four to six weeks. Swelling and bruising are common initially but subside with time. You may have to wear compression garments for up to two months to help reduce swelling and support the healing process.
Follow-up appointments will monitor your progress, and final results become visible over several months as swelling diminishes and the arms settle into their new contour.
FAQ
How painful is an arm lift?
Mild to moderate discomfort is common but can be managed with prescribed medications. Most patients feel significant improvement within the first week.
Will there be visible scars?
Yes, but incisions are placed discreetly and fade significantly over time with proper care.
How soon can I return to work?
Most patients return to work within one to two weeks, depending on the demands of their job.
How long do the results last?
Arm lift results are long-lasting with a stable weight and healthy lifestyle.
Can I combine an arm lift with other procedures?
Yes, arm lifts are often combined with procedures like liposuction or other body contouring surgery for comprehensive results.
What should I avoid after surgery?
Avoid smoking, heavy lifting, and strenuous activities during recovery to promote healing.
Complementary Procedures
Liposuction is always performed as part of this procedure, and we may also recommend a breast lift or other contouring procedures to achieve a more proportionate upper body.
For more detailed information please contact our office or book a consultation.
About Dr. Dorafshar
Dr. Amir Dorafshar is a board-certified plastic, aesthetic, and reconstructive surgeon, renowned worldwide for his pioneering work in aesthetic surgery, craniofacial and microsurgical reconstruction, facial gender-affirming surgeries, and computer-assisted surgical techniques.
With over three decades of professional experience, Dr. Dorafshar’s commitment to medical innovation and his passion for advancing surgical practices have established him as a leading expert, respected author, and authoritative figure in the field.
From Our Patients
At Evolve Your Life, we’re committed to delivering a world-class experience through attentive, responsive, and compassionate care. How are we doing?
See what some of our patients have to say:
Kiersten Obermayer
Dr. Dorafshar is absolutely amazing. He truly cares about the results as well as the patient. He checked up on me multiple times through my recovery and my results are amazing already after 10 days! Can’t wait to see them when I’m fully healed!
Khyla Tatak
Talk about a great experience overall. Dr. Dorafshar made me feel at ease, answered all of my questions and set realistic expectations on recovery. Constantly checked in to make sure I was doing ok during the first week post surgery. His team set the bar high. I’m so incredibly happy with my results.
“Anyone seeking out a great surgeon who will work with your needs and help you feel like the best version of yourself, I highly recommend Dr. Amir Dorafshar.”
—Iliana Diana
See yourself. Be yourself.
At Evolve Your Life, we know how important it is to look in the mirror every day and see a reflection that feels like your own.
