Arm Lifts (Brachioplasty)

An arm lift is a cosmetic surgical procedure that tightens and removes excess skin of the upper arm. Liposuction is often done with an arm lift. The technique used depends on how much excess skin you have and what you want. The three different arm lift procedures are:

  • Short Scar Arm Lift: the scar is hidden in the arm pit and is unnoticeable.
  • Long Scar Arm Lift: the incision is long and ends just above the elbow, leaving a long, visible scar but it allows for all excess skin to be removed.
  • Extended Long Scar Arm Lift: This incision may extend below the elbow and/or along the arm pit and down the chest. It is usually needed after extreme weight loss

Arm lifts are done at the outpatient surgery center under general anesthesia. The arms are bandaged with a compression bandage that must be worn for 6 weeks. There may be temporary numbness of the lower arm after a long scar or extended scar lift. You will also have swelling, bruising and soreness for several weeks. There is no exercise except walking for 6 weeks.