Body

Arm lift

The arm lift, or brachioplasty, removes excess skin from the inner arm and tightens its contours. It mainly concerns skin laxity after significant weight loss, with the indication decided in consultation.

Book an appointment All procedures

What is it?

An arm lift is a cosmetic procedure that aims to remove excess skin and fat in the arm area, particularly in the upper part. It aims to firm the arm contour by removing the distended skin.

Free consultation

Process

Preliminary consultation
During this first step, your surgeon will assess your physical condition and discuss your expectations regarding the operation with you.
The operation
The procedure is performed in the operating room under general anesthesia. The surgeon makes an incision on the inner or back part of the arm, removing excess skin and fat to restore a more flattering shape to the arm.
Recovery
Once the operation is complete, post-operative care will be provided to facilitate your recovery.

Why choose our clinic?

Proven experience
Our plastic surgeons are among the most experienced in the field of arm lifts, for a result suited to each patient's morphology.
Exceptional results
The goal is a firmer arm contour, with a scar placed to stay discreet.
Personalized care
We treat you as a unique individual and strive to understand and meet your specific needs.

Expected results

2hDuration of the procedure
70%Recovery after 2 weeks
90%Recovery after 6 weeks

Before / after results

The arm lift (brachioplasty): principle and technique

This section explains what an arm lift is and in which situations it provides an answer that other approaches cannot.

Tightening the arm and removing excess skin

The arm lift, or brachioplasty, removes excess skin and fat from the inner side of the arm in order to improve its contour. It is intended in particular for skin looseness that appears after significant weight loss or over time, when the skin no longer retracts sufficiently.

What the technique allows

Reduce the excess skin that gives the arm a loose appearance.
Improve the contour and firmness of the upper arm.
Remove, if needed, some localized fat.
Make it easier to wear certain clothing in cases of marked looseness.

Surgery or non-surgical approaches?

Non-surgical techniques exist to moderately firm the arms, but they do not act on significant excess skin. When skin looseness predominates, brachioplasty remains the most appropriate solution. Your surgeon clarifies the option that matches your situation.

Good candidate and indications

The arm lift is intended for specific situations, often after weight loss. Here is what helps identify who can benefit from it.

A generally favorable profile

Excess skin on the inner side of the arm.
A stabilized weight, particularly after weight loss.
Good general health and realistic expectations.
Acceptance of a scar in exchange for the reshaping.

Points discussed during the consultation

The consultation assesses skin quality, the amount of excess and fat distribution. Stopping smoking and preparation are discussed. The location and length of the scar, important aspects of this procedure, are clearly explained before deciding.

Anesthesia, procedure and aftercare

Understanding the procedure and the first few weeks helps you approach the operation more calmly. The benchmarks below are general.

Anesthesia and procedure

The arm lift is generally performed under general anesthesia, in a suitable surgical setting. The surgeon makes an incision on the inner or posterior side of the arm, removes the excess skin and fat, then closes in layers. The length of the incision depends on the extent to be treated.

The immediate aftermath

A dressing and sometimes a compression garment are put in place. Swelling, bruising and a feeling of tension are common during the first few days. Elevating the arms and following mobilization guidelines help limit swelling.

Return to activity

Recovery generally requires several weeks before a full return. Efforts with the arms and sport are reintroduced gradually, with medical approval, so as not to place excessive tension on the scars.

Results, scar and durability

The result of an arm lift is assessed once the scars are mature and the swelling has resolved. Here are realistic benchmarks.

Timeline of the result

First few weeks: improved contour but swelling still present.
After a few months: swelling decreases and the scars begin to evolve.
Refined result: appreciated once the scars are mature, often after several months.

The scar, a key point

Brachioplasty involves a scar, usually on the inner side of the arm. Its appearance improves over time but remains variable depending on individual healing. Local care may be recommended according to the phases. It is a trade-off to factor into the decision.

Durability

The skin removal is long-lasting, but skin aging and significant weight fluctuations can alter the appearance of the arm over time. A stable weight helps preserve the result.

Frequently asked questions

How long is the recovery after an arm lift?

The recovery period varies for each individual, but in general, you should allow at least 4 weeks for a full recovery.

Can you have an arm lift without surgery?

There are non-surgical options to firm the arms, such as CoolSculpting and Renuvion. However, for cases of significant excess skin, surgery may be necessary.

Is an arm lift painful?

Any surgical procedure can cause some degree of discomfort. However, post-operative pain is generally well managed with medication prescribed by the surgeon.

Where is the scar located after an arm lift?

The scar is generally located on the inner side of the arm, sometimes extending toward the armpit depending on the amount of skin to be removed. It usually remains hidden when the arm is by the side of the body. Its length depends on the amount of excess skin; your surgeon discusses this before the procedure.

Does an arm lift leave a visible scar?

Brachioplasty involves a scar, whose location aims to make it as discreet as possible. Its final appearance depends on individual healing and post-operative care. For significant excess skin, this scar is the trade-off of reshaping the arm; non-surgical alternatives are only suitable for limited cases.