Arm Lift Surgery (Brachioplasty) Information
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The Condition(s) Arm Lift Surgery Treats
Arm lift surgery (brachioplasty) removes loose, hanging skin and excess fat of the upper arms that result from significant weight loss, aging, or decreased skin elasticity. Arm lift surgery creates smoother, firmer arm contours that look great in sleeveless tops, sundresses, and swimwear and that better match the rest of the body after weight changes.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Arm Lift Surgery
Good candidates for arm lift surgery are adults in overall good health with bothersome upper‑arm laxity (“bat wings”) that does not improve with exercise. Stable weight and good nutritional status support healing. Having realistic expectations and following your recovery plan will help ensure that you are satisfied with the results of your arm lift surgery. Board‑certified plastic surgeon Dr. Ali will evaluate skin condition and laxity, fat distribution, and your goals during consultation and will recommend the most appropriate arm lift surgery approach for your individual needs.
The Procedure or Technique(s) Used by Dr. Ali for Arm Lift Surgery
Dr. Ali customizes arm lift surgery to the amount and location of excess tissue:
- Limited‑incision (mini) arm lift surgery for mild laxity with incisions concealed in the armpit.
- Standard arm lift surgery with an incision placed along the inner/posterior arm from the armpit toward the elbow to remove redundant skin and tighten underlying tissues.
- Arm lift surgery with liposuction when fat reduction is also needed to refine contour. Incisions are planned to be as discreet as possible while achieving a smooth, tapered upper arm.
Types of Anesthetic Is Used for Arm Lift Surgery
Arm lift surgery is typically performed with general anesthesia. The anesthetic plan is individualized and will be reviewed in advance with you. You will not feel any pain during your arm lift surgery.
How Long Arm Lift Surgery Takes
Every arm lift surgery varies with the extent of skin removal and whether liposuction is performed. Dr. Ali provides a personalized time estimate during consultation.
Recovery from Arm Lift Surgery
Expect swelling and a feeling of tightness in the arms early on. After arm lift surgery, the arms are supported in a soft compression sleeve to control swelling and support the new contour. Many patients return to routine daily activities and desk‑type work in about one to two weeks, advancing activity as comfort allows and as instructed. Individual recovery times differ depending on the extent of arm lift surgery and patient factors such as age, skin condition, overall health, and adherence to recovery protocols. Dr. Ali provides a staged recovery plan and monitors progress closely.
Driving after arm lift surgery must wait until prescription pain medication is no longer needed and safe arm movement is comfortable. Gentle walking starts almost immediately. Light exercise and desk‑type work often resume around two weeks, with a gradual return to higher‑impact workouts, heavy lifting, and overhead activities over subsequent weeks as cleared by Dr. Ali.
Timing for sexual activity after arm lift surgery is individualized, depending on patient comfort and incision protection – but most patients can have soft and gentle intercourse one or two weeks after surgery if they feel comfortable – with a full return to normal sexual activity generally advised around 4–6 weeks.
A soft compression sleeve is worn as directed to control swelling and support your results. Sleeping with the arms slightly elevated and avoiding heavy lifting or forceful pulling early on helps the arms heal smoothly. Dr. Ali and his team provide detailed aftercare instructions and see you for regular follow‑ups to track progress.
Will There Be Scarring After Arm Lift Surgery
Any procedure that uses incisions creates scars, but highly experienced plastic surgeon Dr. Ali uses the most advanced, least invasive techniques that are appropriate for each patient’s unique needs – including the smallest and most strategically placed incisions – to minimize scarring. He positions arm lift surgery incisions where they are less visible when the arms are at your sides. Scars mature and fade with time and proper care.
Cost of Arm Lift Surgery
Each patient’s arm lift surgery needs are unique – depending upon the incision length, degree of tissue removal, the use of liposuction, skin quality, and other personal considerations. Therefore, the cost of arm lift surgery will vary from patient to patient. During your consultation – after examination and discussion – Dr. Ali will recommend the best arm lift surgery plan for your unique needs and give you the cost. We also offer convenient financing options so that you do not have to wait to undergo your arm lift surgery.
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The information contained on this website is intended as general educational information only, and is not to be taken as medical advice. Plastic surgery and aesthetic procedure techniques and technologies are subject to change, and this information may or may not apply to your specific situation or unique condition. To understand what surgeries or cosmetic treatments are right for you, please schedule an in person consultation at AMAE Plastic Surgery & Med Spa by calling: 248-335-7200.
