Surgery to remove excess skin from the upper arms (brachioplasty, an arm lift).
About the procedure
What this procedure involves
An arm lift (brachioplasty) is surgery that removes excess skin and, where appropriate, fat from the upper arms, and tightens the remaining tissue. It is often considered after significant weight loss, where loose skin can affect comfort, hygiene or clothing. It is not a substitute for weight loss, and it leaves a scar along the arm. Dr Jassim Daood performs arm lift surgery at the Bankstown clinic. Whether it is appropriate for you is assessed at a consultation.
Recovery
Recovery varies between patients. Dressings and a compression garment are applied, and a small drain is sometimes used to remove excess fluid. Many people take around two weeks away from work. Scars take many months to mature, and a stable weight helps maintain the result.
In depth
More about this procedure
Detailed information about this procedure. Select a section to read more.
An arm lift is most often considered by people with loose, excess skin on the upper arms that does not respond to exercise, commonly after significant weight loss. A stable weight is generally advised beforehand.
Where the concern is mainly fat rather than excess skin, liposuction may be more appropriate. Suitability is assessed individually at your consultation, including a discussion of the scar involved.
The procedure removes excess skin and fat and tightens the remaining tissue to reshape the upper arm. The incision usually runs along the inner arm, between the elbow and the armpit, and its length depends on the amount of skin to be removed.
It is generally performed under general anaesthetic. Where appropriate, liposuction may be combined with the procedure. The approach and expected time are discussed at your consultation.
A compression garment is typically worn for several weeks to support the arm and control swelling, and swelling and bruising are expected. Lifting and strenuous activity are restricted for a period.
Many people take around one to two weeks away from work, depending on the individual and the extent of surgery.
An arm lift can produce a firmer, smoother upper-arm contour, which many people find improves the fit of clothing and their confidence.
The main trade-off is the scar along the inner arm. A stable weight helps maintain the result, and realistic expectations are discussed at your consultation.
Common questions
Frequently asked questions
An arm lift removes excess skin and tightens the tissue of the upper arm, sometimes with liposuction of associated fat. It is most often considered after significant weight loss. Suitability is assessed at your consultation.
It may be considered by people in good general health who have loose excess skin on the upper arms, sometimes causing skin folds that affect hygiene or clothing. Some people are not suitable candidates, which the consultation determines.
Incisions are usually placed along the inner or back of the arm and can be long. The trade-off between removing excess skin and the resulting scar is an important part of the discussion at your consultation.
Liposuction is sometimes combined with an arm lift where there is excess fat as well as loose skin. Whether this is appropriate depends on your skin quality and is assessed individually.
Removing excess skin can give a lasting change, but maintaining a stable weight and general fitness is important. The effects of ageing on the skin continue over time.
A compression garment is worn for several weeks, a drain is sometimes used, and swelling and bruising are expected. Many people take around two weeks away from work, depending on the individual.
Cost depends on your individual procedure and is provided in writing after your consultation. Any quote reflects the total cost, covering the surgeon, anaesthesia, facility fees, aftercare and any garments required.
Yes. Under Australian regulations a GP referral is required before a cosmetic surgery consultation, and the referring practitioner must not perform cosmetic procedures themselves.
