As patients age, a common trouble area is under the upper portion of the arms. This area is particularly susceptible to fat buildup and sagging, giving a wiggly, swollen appearance to the upper arms. Fortunately, patients do not have to live with the effects that age or weight gain can have upon the arms. An arm lift, otherwise known as a brachioplasty, is an effective procedure that is used to bring a youthful contour to the arms where it has been lost.
The target area of a brachioplasty is the underarm between the armpit and the elbow. A brachioplasty removes excess skin and fat, and the remaining skin is then pulled snugly over the arm, restoring a slim, toned look.
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View GalleryArm Lift Procedure
At the office of Dr. Brenner in Beverly Hills, your arm lift will take place in a private, comfortable surgical facility to ensure maximum peace of mind.
While an arm lift may be done with sedation and local anesthesia, Dr. Brenner recommends general anesthesia to ensure a pain free experience.
During the procedure, the initial incisions will be placed on the undersides of the arms. Prior to the surgery, you and Dr. Brenner will discuss how much tissue is to be removed, and this will determine the length and position of the incisions.
Once the incisions are made, Dr. Brenner will address the tissues underneath your skin. He will tighten these and secure them in place with sutures. At this point, he may also use liposuction to remove excess fat if necessary. Once this is done, the skin is placed over the new contours of the arm and excess skin is excised. An arm lift generally takes two and a half hours.
Arm Lift Recovery
Following your surgery, Dr. Brenner will dress the incisions with bandages. Elastic bandages will be applied to the upper arms to minimize the effects of swelling. If necessary, drainage tubes may be placed to help the removal of any excess fluid or blood. Within several days of the arm lift, you will see Dr. Brenner for a follow-up appointment. During this appointment, he will likely remove the bandages and drainage tubes, if they have been used. During the first several days after an arm lift, it is recommended that you:
- Keep your arms elevated
- Keep the incisions protected from pressure or motion
- Take pain medication to manage discomfort
- Take antibiotics to prevent infection
Additionally, your recovery period will be fully supported by the office of Dr. Brenner. If there are any concerns that arise, his office is happy to assist in any way possible. Ask any questions you can think of to help facilitate total peace of mind during your recovery.
Arm Lift FAQ
Who is the ideal candidate for an arm lift?
Ideal candidates are adults with excess skin or fat in the upper arms, often due to aging, weight loss, or genetics. Good candidates have stable weight, realistic expectations, and are in overall good health.
Will an arm lift reduce arm fat or just remove excess skin?
An arm lift primarily removes excess skin and tightens underlying tissues. Liposuction can be added to reduce localized fat and improve overall arm contour.
How noticeable will the scars be?
Scars are typically placed along the underside of the arms to minimize visibility. Over time, they usually fade but will remain permanent. Dr. Brenner provides guidance on scar care to optimize healing.
Can an arm lift be combined with other procedures?
Yes, many patients combine an arm lift with procedures like a breast lift, tummy tuck, or liposuction for a more comprehensive body rejuvenation.
How long does it take to see final results?
While swelling and bruising improve within weeks, final results typically become apparent within 3–6 months as the tissues settle and scars mature.
What activities should be avoided during recovery?
Patients should avoid heavy lifting, strenuous exercise, or any activity that strains the arms for at least 4–6 weeks. Light movement and gentle stretching may be recommended to improve circulation.
Are arm lifts permanent?
Results are long-lasting if you maintain a stable weight. Natural aging will continue, and some patients may experience minor changes in skin elasticity over time.
How can I prepare for my arm lift surgery?
Preparation may include lab tests, medications adjustments, avoiding smoking, and arranging help at home during recovery. Dr. Brenner will provide a complete pre-surgery checklist during your consultation.
Is an arm lift painful?
Discomfort is normal during recovery, but pain is usually manageable with prescribed medications. Most patients describe it as mild to moderate and controllable.
When can I resume normal activities and work?
Many patients return to non-strenuous work within 1–2 weeks, but full activity and exercise are generally resumed after 4–6 weeks.
Learn More About Dr. Brenner
- Renowned Beverly Hills Plastic Surgeon
- Board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon
- Board-certified general surgeon
