Arm Lift (Brachioplasty): Firm and Reshape Sagging Upper Arms

Arm lift surgery (brachioplasty) removes excess skin and fat from the inner upper arm to create a firmer, more toned arm contour. The characteristic "batwing" appearance of the inner arms — caused by skin laxity following weight loss, aging, or genetics — is one of the most resistant areas of the body to dietary and exercise interventions. Brachioplasty provides a permanent solution that restores confidence and opens up wardrobe options.

Who Is a Candidate?

• Adults with significant excess skin hanging from the inner upper arm
• Patients who have experienced massive weight loss and have skin excess
• Individuals bothered by arm appearance even at a stable, healthy weight
• People in good general health with realistic expectations
• Non-smokers or those who have stopped smoking well in advance of surgery

Surgical Technique

Brachioplasty is performed under general anesthesia and takes approximately 1.5–2.5 hours. The incision runs along the inner upper arm from the armpit to the elbow (or a shorter segment for less extensive cases). Excess skin and fat are removed, and the remaining skin is redraped smoothly. Liposuction may be performed simultaneously to further refine the arm contour. Incisions are placed in the arm's inner surface to minimize scar visibility in everyday situations.

Recovery

Compression sleeves are worn for 4–6 weeks. Most patients return to office work within 1–2 weeks and to exercise within 4–6 weeks. Final arm lift results are visible within 3–4 months. Scars typically fade significantly over 12–18 months, though they remain a trade-off to be discussed and accepted before surgery.