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Larry A. Sargent, MD FACS
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
Sargent Plastic Surgery
4.9 (175)
Plastic Surgery Specials
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Brachioplasty
What Is An Arm Lift?
An arm lift procedure, called Brachioplasty, is an operation designed to reduce and reshape the upper arms from the armpit to the elbow. A Brachioplasty reduces excess sagging skin and fat to help tighten, smooth, and reshape the upper arm.
Dr. Sargent offers 30+ years of experience in Plastic Surgery to Chattanooga, TN., and has his own in-office operative suite.
Brachioplasty
Cost
Am I A Candidate For An Arm Lift?
If you are unhappy with the size, shape and saggy appearance of your upper arms you could be a candidate for a brachioplasty. This type of procedure is frequently performed after significant weight loss. However, there is scarring that is present on the inner portion of the arm.
In general, good candidates for this procedure are:
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At a stable weight and not significantly overweight
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Unhappy with appearance of their upper arms due to losing and sagging excess skin and fat
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Healthy individual, non-smokers
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Realistic expectations and understand a scar is present on inner arms
The Procedure
This operation is usually performed as an outpatient under IV sedation or general anesthesia. It is carefully marked out in the standing position. The excess skin and fat are removed using an elliptical excision starting in the armpit and extending to the elbow. The scar is designed to be on the inner-posterior aspect of the arm, so it will be the least noticeable unless the arms are extended. The result is a tightened, better shaped upper arm.
All Procedures Shown were done by Larry A. Sargent, M.D. FACS
What Is The Recovery After An Arm Lift?
After the procedure, you will be able to return home with bandages on your upper arms. Compression garments are helpful to keep down bruising and swelling. Moderate discomfort is to be expected. You will need to refrain from physical activity or lifting for several weeks. Most people return to work in 2 weeks and resume normal activity or exercising in 6 weeks.
Quick Answers
Length Of Operation
Usually one to three hours
Anesthesia
Usually intravenous sedation or general anesthesia
Length Of Stay
Outpatient, home the same day
Recovery
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Mild to moderate discomfort first 2-3 days
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Mild to moderate swelling and bruising
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Back to work in 10-14 days
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No exercising for 6 weeks
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Compression garment on arms recommended for several weeks
Scars
Visible on underarms extending from armpit to elbow
Risks / Possible Complications
Severe complications are unlikely
Possible risks include the following:
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Infection
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Hematoma-collection of blood beneath skin
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Numbness in arms-usually temporary
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Slow wound healing
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