What Is an Arm Lift (Brachioplasty)? A Comprehensive Guide to the Procedure

The upper arms can change over time because of factors like aging or weight fluctuations. Even with consistent strength training, excess skin may hide muscle definition and create a sagging or “bat wing” appearance. Since skin laxity cannot be improved with exercise, some patients seek surgical options to address these concerns. Brachioplasty, also known as an arm lift, removes excess skin and fat to reshape the upper arms. At Northstate Plastic Surgery in Chico, CA, we perform this surgery to help patients get the smooth and sculpted arms they want.

Why Patients Consider Arm Lift Surgery

Excess Skin

Loose skin on the upper arms can result from aging, weight loss, or genetics. Once the skin loses elasticity, it does not retract on its own, no matter how much muscle is built underneath. Brachioplasty removes this excess tissue and allows for a smoother arm contour that is not hindered by sagging skin.

Excess Fat Deposits

Fat in the upper arms can be particularly resistant to diet and exercise. Even with a lean overall physique, some patients notice that fat accumulates in this area and causes a bulky appearance. An arm reduction removes these fat deposits through excision or liposuction, depending on the amount and location of the excess fat.

Poor Muscle Visibility

Defined arms require both muscle tone and a lack of excess tissue covering the muscle. When sagging skin and fat obscure the shape of the arms, even well-developed biceps and triceps may not appear as sculpted as they actually are. An arm lift allows muscle definition to be more visible.

Choosing the Right Type of Arm Lift

The type of brachioplasty performed depends on the amount of excess skin and fat that needs to be removed. A mini arm lift is suited for patients with mild sagging limited to the upper arm near the armpit and uses a shorter incision for a less invasive approach. A traditional arm lift removes excess skin along the inner arm from the armpit to the elbow and is the most common choice for moderate sagging. An extended arm lift is sometimes used when loose skin extends past the upper arms and into the chest area, often after major weight loss. If there is any excess fat that is not removable through the incisions made in the arm, liposuction may be used to further refine the arm.

Who Is a Good Candidate for an Arm Lift?

Brachioplasty surgery candidates should be at a stable weight since future fluctuations can affect the results. Good overall health is necessary for proper healing, and patients should not have medical conditions that interfere with recovery. While this procedure improves arm contour, it does leave a scar along the inner arm, so patients should be comfortable with this trade-off. Realistic expectations are also important since an arm lift reshapes the arms but does not prevent future changes from aging.

What Happens During an Arm Lift?

The procedure begins with the administration of anesthesia. General anesthesia may be used to make you completely unaware, or we may use a combination of local anesthesia and sedation depending on the situation. If liposuction is desired, these areas of excess fat will be addressed. We will then make an incision in the chosen area and remove any excess skin. We carefully redrape the remaining skin to create a natural-looking contour. Then we close the incision with sutures and bandage the area to protect it.

Scar Placement and Healing

Whether you have received a small incision near the armpit or a larger incision from the armpit to the elbow, proper healing starts with following post-surgical care instructions. You will need to keep the incision clean, avoid excessive arm movement, and wear any compression garments as directed. Protecting the scar from sun exposure can prevent darkening, and silicone-based scar treatments can support smoother healing once approved by your surgeon. Over time, a brachioplasty scar typically fades and flattens, though the final scar appearance varies based on individual healing factors.

What Is Normal During Brachioplasty Recovery?

Swelling, bruising, and mild to moderate discomfort are expected in the first few weeks after surgery. A compression garment helps minimize swelling and supports the healing tissues. Temporary numbness or tightness in the arms is common as the skin and underlying structures adjust. Most patients can resume light activities within a week but should avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for several weeks. Incision sites should never be red and inflamed or have a foul discharge. If you notice any of these signs of infection, give us a call right away. 

How Much Does Brachioplasty Cost?

Arm lift cost varies based on factors such as the complexity of the procedure and whether liposuction is included. Costs typically include surgical fees, anesthesia, operating facility charges, and post-operative care. During a consultation, we provide a detailed cost estimate based on your specific surgical plan.

How to Choose the Right Surgeon for Your Arm Lift

A board-certified plastic surgeon with experience in brachioplasty can provide the best assessment of what type of arm lift will be most effective. Reviewing before-and-after photos helps set realistic expectations for scar placement and results. Your surgeon will discuss the surgical plan in detail, including incision techniques and recovery expectations. A consultation is the best time to ask questions about the procedure, safety, and post-operative care, so feel free to make inquiries. 

Get Sculpted, Defined Arms With Brachioplasty

Brachioplasty removes excess skin and fat from the upper arms, creating a more contoured appearance that exercise alone cannot achieve. The procedure is customized based on the amount of tissue that needs to be addressed, with different techniques available depending on the level of correction desired. To learn more about our brachioplasty surgeries at Northstate Plastic Surgery in Chico, CA, call (530) 345-5900 or contact us through our online form.