What is an arm lift?

An arm lift or brachioplasty is a surgical procedure designed to remove unwanted excess fat and skin of the upper arms.  It can be used to reshape the area extending between the underarm region down to the elbow.  The procedure will address excess skin that has lost its elasticity or become weakened or time and localized fatty deposits.  Overall the procedure is designed to:

• Reshape the upper arm resulting in a smoother improved contour
• Reduce excess skin and fat
• Restore a more toned and proportional appearance to the upper arm

Heredity, increasing age or fluctuation in weight can lead to your upper arms having a drooping or even “bat-wing” appearance.  Proper diet and exercise can strengthen and improve the underlying muscle tone you have but it cannot address the excess skin and fat deposits that remain.  One of the trade-offs you make for your improved arm appearance and contour is a scar along the inside of your arm.

Incision length and pattern depend on the amount and location of excess skin to be removed.  Incisions are generally placed on the inside of the arm and may extend from the underarm (axilla) to just above the elbow. If fat is to be reduced during your arm lift, it will be excised or treated with liposuction.