Quick Facts
An arm lift (brachioplasty) removes excess skin and fat from the upper arms—the "bat wing" area that diet and exercise can't fix. It's particularly popular among patients who've lost significant weight and are left with loose, hanging skin.
The Scar Trade-Off
An arm lift leaves a permanent scar running from your armpit to your elbow (inner arm). You're trading loose skin for a scar. Most patients consider this a worthwhile trade, but you need to accept this reality before proceeding.
What This Guide Covers
Types of Arm Lifts
Standard Brachioplasty
Best for: Significant excess skin
Incision runs from armpit to elbow along inner arm. Removes most skin and allows maximum contouring. Most common type.
Mini Arm Lift
Best for: Mild laxity near armpit
Shorter incision hidden in armpit area. Limited skin removal. Only works for patients with minimal excess skin.
Extended Brachioplasty
Best for: Post-bariatric patients
Incision extends from arm onto chest/side. Addresses excess skin that wraps around to the back or chest wall. For massive weight loss patients.
Ideal Candidates
Good Candidates
- ✓ Significant loose, hanging skin on upper arms
- ✓ Stable weight for 6+ months
- ✓ Non-smoker
- ✓ Accept visible scarring
- ✓ Realistic expectations
- ✓ Post-weight loss patients
- ✓ Age-related skin laxity
Poor Candidates
- ✗ Expecting invisible scars
- ✗ Only fat, no loose skin (lipo may be better)
- ✗ Active weight loss
- ✗ Smokers unwilling to quit
- ✗ Lymphedema or history of lymph node removal
- ✗ Planning significant weight changes
Recovery Timeline
Days 1–3: Maximum Rest
Arms elevated. Compression garment worn 24/7. Drains may be in place. Significant swelling and bruising. Pain managed with medication.
Week 1: Early Recovery
Drains removed (typically day 5–7). First follow-up. Very limited arm movement—no lifting anything. Showering allowed after drains out.
Week 2: Light Activity
Can return to desk work. Most patients can fly home. Still no lifting over 5 lbs. Swelling improving but still present.
Weeks 4–6: Progressive Return
Compression garment worn during day. Can resume most daily activities. Light upper body exercise may resume at 6 weeks with clearance.
3–6 Months: Final Results
Swelling fully resolved. Final arm contour visible. Scars continue to mature and fade (full maturation takes 12–18 months).
Scar Management
Scar Expectations
- Location: Inner arm from armpit to elbow
- Visibility: Hidden when arms at sides; visible when arms raised
- Timeline: Red/pink for 6–12 months, then fade to pale line
- Final appearance: Thin, flat line (varies by skin type and genetics)
Optimizing Scar Healing
- Keep incisions out of sun for 12 months (or use SPF 50+)
- Silicone scar sheets or gel once incisions closed
- No stretching or heavy lifting during healing
- Don't smoke—smoking significantly worsens scarring
- Stay hydrated and maintain nutrition
- Consider laser treatments after 6 months if needed
The Bottom Line
Most arm lift patients say: "I wish I'd done it sooner." The scar becomes a non-issue once they can wear sleeveless tops and tank tops with confidence. It's a trade-off, but for those with significant arm laxity, it's usually the right one.