Arm Lift (Brachioplasty)

Time and age, along with sun exposure, can cause the upper arm skin to sag or wrinkle. An arm lift, or brachioplasty, is a procedure to improve contouring of the upper arm. The goal is to create the most pleasing result with the least visible scar and shortest recovery time.

A variety of techniques can be used to improve the shape of the upper arm, including laser ablation, liposuction, surgery, or a combination of these approaches.

What to expect

Sciton Laser SkinTyte – This is the least invasive method to improve the skin quality of the arms. Performed in an office setting, the laser procedure takes 45 minutes to an hour, and requires no anesthesia and no down time. Typically, four to five sessions are required to achieve the desired result.

Liposuction – This outpatient procedure is typically performed in an operating room to remove the excess fat on the upper arm and allow loose skin to contour around the smaller arm. Depending on the amount of correction desired, this surgery may take one to two hours.  A compression garment is worn for three to four weeks following the procedure to reduce swelling.  Often there are no activity restrictions following this procedure.

Arm Lift – Arm lift, or brachioplasty, is an outpatient procedure performed in an operating room. The surgeon removes both excess skin and fat from the upper arm.

Common questions about having an arm lift

Is an arm lift painful?

With any procedure, the goal is to make any pain as tolerable as possible. While you may experience discomfort, pain medication is prescribed so you are comfortable using your arms during the recovery period.

How long is the recovery?

A patient may have drains following surgery that will be removed after a few days.  Many patients return to work three to four days following surgery. A compression garment is worn for three to four weeks following the procedure.

How noticeable will my scar be?

There is a relationship between the amount of contouring and the size of the scar. Your surgeon will design an incision that is not obvious and still give the most correction. Some patients opt for the least visible scar and less correction, while others may choose a scar that is more visible in exchange for the smallest contoured arm.