Arm lift & reduction (brachioplasty) surgery

Arm lift surgery and rm reduction surgery, also known as brachioplasty, is preformed to improve the contour of the arm. The aim of brachioplasty is to remove any excess skin and fat, leaving a tighter arm with a better cosmetic outcome. It is possible to combine the procedure with liposuction. 

What happens during an arm reduction or an arm lift surgery?

The upper arm reduction or lift surgery is preformed under a local or general anaesthetic depending on what is needed. It takes between 60-120 minutes. The surgeon will start with liposuction sometimes, then an incision in made either in the arm pit or along the arm to tighten or lift the skin. Fat can be removed along with skin. The incision is closed with dissolving sutures. 

Going home and aftercare following an arm lift operation

You will have a dressing for a week. You will have to return to see a nurse in one week to check the wound. You might need some pain medication for the first few days. Depending on your job you might return to work in 2 weeks. You will have to wear a pressure garment for around 6 weeks. 

What are the alternatives for arm lift surgery?

  • Eating healthy
  • Exercise
  • Skin tightening using radiofrequency and ultrasound
  • Wearing long-sleeve tops 

There are some complication and risks associated with the arm reduction and arm lift surgery:

  • Infection
  • Bleeding
  • Unfavrouble scarring
  • Anaesthetic risks
  • Vein clots in arms
  • Numbness of skin
  • Asymmetry 
  • Lymphatic swelling

Am I a good candidate for an arm reduction or arm lift surgery?

preparing for brachioplasty

  • You should stop smoking 1 month before surgery. 
  • Maintain a healthy weight
  • Have regular exercise 
  • Do not shave or wax for 1 week before surgery
  • Have a shower the day before surgery

scars after arm lift surgery

The scars after surgery are usually hidden in the arm pit or along the length of the inner arm. This means that the scars will not be visible on routine daily activities, but could be visible if you lift your arm.

Scars after arm lift surgery usually fade very well overtime. Allow up to 2 years for the scars to completely settle. 

is arm lift surgery painful?

From our experience, arm lift surgery pain is classified as moderate for the first 72 hours, then fades after that. Oral medications are sufficient to maintain comfort. 

Expect skin tightens after an arm lift or arm reduction surgery, and this can take up to 10 days to get used to. 

How is Arm Lift Surgery Done?

"Despite having a long scar in a visible part of the body, patients are usually very satisfied with the reduction and the accept the scar as a trade off to achieve thinner arms."
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Dr Ali Soueid
Consultant Plastic Surgeon

Potential Benefits of Arm Lift Surgery