Arm Lift

How does an arm lift procedure work?

An arm lift is performed as an inpatient procedure under general anesthesia and takes about 2 hours. Depending on the extent of skin sagging and fat deposits in the upper arms, which may occur genetically, due to aging, or as a result of significant weight loss, the surgery may be more complex. Before the arm lift, the surgeon marks the incision lines on the upper arms. The incisions are located on the back or inner side of the upper arms and taper from the armpit down to the elbow. In cases of significant excess skin, an additional incision in the armpit may be advisable. Through the incisions, the surgeon removes excess fat deposits – a classic liposuction technique may be used here – and tightens the skin of the upper arms, resulting in a slim and smooth appearance. Excess skin is removed, drainage tubes are placed, and the incisions are closed with a special suturing technique. A compression bandage is applied, and the arm lift is complete.

What should be considered after an arm lift?

In the first 2 weeks after the brachioplasty, the initially swollen arms should be kept still. The patient will remain in the clinic for about 1-2 days after the procedure for the removal of drainage tubes and initial observation. At home, compression garments should continue to be worn to avoid excessive scar formation and to support the healing process as much as possible. It should be noted that an arm lift always leaves visible scars. However, due to the positioning of the incisions on the inner or back sides of the upper arms, they are discreetly placed. Careful scar management can further reduce the visibility of the scars. About 2 weeks after the arm lift, the patient is socially acceptable again, and the final result can be assessed after about 4 weeks.