Information about the procedure
Removal of loose skin and fat from the inner upper arms to restore a firm arm contour.
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What it involves
Brachioplasty (arm lift) corrects loose skin on the inner upper arm — a problem that develops after significant weight loss or with age, as the skin loses its elasticity.
This is an area that does not respond to exercise. Building muscle beneath loose skin does not solve the problem and sometimes makes it more noticeable.
The main trade-off is the scar. It runs along the inner arm, usually from the armpit towards the elbow, and is visible when the arm is raised. Patients who choose this operation have usually decided that the loose skin bothers them more than the scar will.
Types and approaches
Standard brachioplasty
An incision along the inner upper arm, from the armpit towards the elbow. Used for marked excess skin after major weight loss.
Short-scar brachioplasty
The scar stays within the armpit. Suitable only for limited excess skin in the upper third of the arm.
With liposuction
Where skin elasticity is good and the problem is mainly fat, liposuction alone is sometimes enough — with no skin removal and no long scar.
Extended brachioplasty
When the excess skin continues onto the side of the chest wall, the incision is extended in that direction.
Who it is suitable for
Suitable for
- Loose skin after significant weight loss
- Loss of skin elasticity with age
- Discomfort from sagging skin when moving or getting dressed
- A stable weight for at least 6 months
- Acceptance of the scar as part of the result
Not suitable, or postponed, in cases of
- Ongoing weight loss
- Unwillingness to accept a long, visible scar
- Current smoking
- Lymphoedema of the arm or previous surgery on the axillary lymph nodes, without prior assessment
- Blood clotting disorders
Preparation
- Reach a stable weight
- Stop smoking at least three to four weeks before surgery
- Pre-operative tests and a consultation with a cardiologist or an anaesthetist
- A clear discussion of the expected scar, with its position shown to you
- Have compression sleeves ready
How it is performed
The operation is performed under general anaesthesia or local anaesthesia with sedation and usually takes one and a half to two and a half hours.
In a combined approach, liposuction is performed first to reduce the volume, and the excess skin is then removed.
The incision is planned on the inner side of the arm, where it is least visible when the arm hangs relaxed at your side. It is closed in layers to reduce tension on the skin.
Recovery
- The first 48 hoursSwelling and tightness. Keep your arms raised to reduce the swelling. Compression sleeves are worn.
- The first weekLimit raising your arms above shoulder height. Most patients return to light office work after 7–10 days.
- 2–4 weeksThe swelling goes down. The scar is red and thickened — a normal stage.
- 1–3 monthsThe contour settles. Active scar care begins.
- 6–18 monthsThe scar fades. Scar maturation takes longer after this operation than after any other, because the skin of the arm is constantly moving.
Pain and discomfort
Discomfort is moderate and is described as tightness rather than pain. The first three to four days, when arm movement is restricted, are the most unpleasant. Ordinary painkillers are usually enough.
Risks and complications
Every intervention carries risks. Listing them does not mean they are expected to occur — it allows you to make an informed decision.
- A visible and sometimes thickened scar — the most common complaint after this operation
- Widening of the scar due to the constant movement of the arm
- Fluid collection (seroma)
- Altered sensation in the skin of the forearm
- Injury to superficial nerves — rare
- Lymphoedema if lymphatic vessels are damaged — rare
- Asymmetry between the two arms
- Delayed wound healing, more common in smokers
Results and longevity
The contour improves immediately and the improvement is long-lasting, provided your weight remains stable.
The scar is permanent. With good care it becomes a thin, pale line, but it remains visible when the arm is raised.
The skin continues to lose elasticity with age, so some mild recurrent laxity is possible years later.