Arm Lift (Brachioplasty)

An arm lift is also known as a “brachioplasty.”  This procedure is performed to reshape and tighten the underside of the upper arm.  After massive weight loss or excess skin laxity caused by aging, the arms begin to droop and become saggy.  This procedure allows the surgeon to remove the excess skin and fat, and reestablish the contour that defines a more youthful arm shape.

Reasons to choose a brachioplasty:

• Massive weight loss resulting in excess skin or fat
• Drooping, or loose upper arms associated with aging or excess weight
• Abnormal contour of upper arms requiring reshaping

General Procedure:
An arm lift is usually performed in the operating room under general anesthesia.   This procedure may include liposuction for fine sculpting of the remaining upper arm fat.  At initial consultation with your surgeon, the areas of concern are identified and the desired results are discussed. These areas will be resected and the remaining skin will be sewn back together.  The incision is along the under surface of the upper arm.  The procedure usually last a few hours depending on the extent of skin and fat resection required.

Recovery Process:

After surgery, you will be required to wear supportive garments during your recovery.  These garments are left on for several weeks, and only removed for showering and cleaning the garments.  Supportive garments are designed to minimize bruising and swelling after surgery.  Pain is controlled with oral pain medications.  Recovery varies with the extent of the procedure.  While complications are rare, patients can minimize potential problems by following the post-surgical instructions given by the surgeon.

Frequent Questions:

What are some typical short term side effects of having an Arm Lift?

Immediately after surgery some patients will have a feeling of tightness in the upper arm as the area swells due to the trauma of surgery. Some patients may develop swelling and some tingling of the hands as well. Most of these symptoms resolve with time.
What type of anesthesia will be used for Arm Lift surgery?

Most arm lifts are performed under a general anesthetic, although some surgeons will utilize a local anesthetic, with sedation. It is important that the facility that the procedure is performed in is an accredited facility where the type of anesthesia utilized is allowed.