Arm Lift (Brachioplasty)
Remove excess skin and fat from the upper arms to create a more toned and proportionate contour. Perfect after significant weight loss or to address age-related skin laxity.
Quick Facts
Type
Surgical (GA)
Duration
~2 hours
Hospital
Day case
Time Off
1-2 weeks
Exercise
6 weeks
Final Results
3-6 months
Cost
On consultation
Consultation
Required
Overview
Brachioplasty removes excess skin and fat from the upper arms, creating a more toned and proportionate arm contour. Often sought after significant weight loss or as part of the natural ageing process where skin loses elasticity. The incision runs along the inner arm and is positioned to be as discreet as possible.
Our surgeons carefully plan the extent of excision to balance aesthetic improvement with scar visibility. The procedure can dramatically improve arm appearance and help patients feel confident in sleeveless clothing.
Important: The resulting scar is permanent and visible on the inner arm. During consultation, we discuss scar trade-offs and techniques to minimise visibility.
Who Is This Procedure For?
- •Excess hanging skin on upper arms (bat wings)
- •Significant weight loss leaving loose arm skin
- •Loss of skin elasticity with age
- •Those unable to achieve desired arm shape through exercise alone
- •Self-consciousness about arm appearance
What Does the Procedure Involve?
Incision Placement
An incision runs along the inner arm from the armpit region towards the elbow. The length and exact position are determined by the amount of excess skin requiring removal and are carefully planned to be as discreet as possible.
Tissue Removal and Tightening
Excess skin and subcutaneous fat are removed. The underlying tissues and fascia are tightened to provide optimal contour and improve arm definition. This creates a more toned appearance.
Liposuction (When Indicated)
Liposuction may be combined with skin excision to refine arm contour further and reduce fatty deposits, optimising the final aesthetic result.
Wound Closure
The wound is closed with dissolving stitches placed deep in the tissue and fine sutures on the skin surface to promote optimal scar healing and appearance.
Risks & Considerations
- ⚠Scarring: Visible on inner arm, permanent but typically well-concealed by clothing
- ⚠Bleeding: Uncommon but can occur requiring further management
- ⚠Infection: Rare, managed with antibiotics if it occurs
- ⚠Asymmetry: Slight imbalance between sides may occur
- ⚠Wound Healing Issues: Delayed healing or dehiscence at scar line
- ⚠Numbness: Temporary or permanent numbness in skin area
- ⚠Seroma: Fluid collection may require aspiration
- ⚠Revision: May be needed to address under or over-correction
Recovery Overview
Days 1-3
Rest with arms elevated when possible. Pain managed with medication.
Week 1
Dressings checked, light activity only. Arm movement minimal.
Weeks 2-3
Return to desk work. Avoid lifting and strenuous arm activity.
4-6 weeks
Gentle exercise permitted. Gradually increase arm activity.
6 weeks
Resume normal activities and exercise routines.
3-6 months
Scars mature and fade. Final arm contour visible.
Patient Information Leaflets
Download our comprehensive patient information to learn more about the procedure, what to expect, and how to prepare.
Additional patient information leaflets for arm lift surgery are available upon request. Please contact us to receive detailed pre-operative and post-operative guidance.
Arm Lift Aftercare Guide
Already had your procedure? Visit our detailed online aftercare guide with recovery timelines, arm care instructions, activity guidelines, and when to contact us.
Questions? Get in Touch
Our team is here to answer your questions about arm lift surgery and help you determine if this procedure is right for you.