Also known as brachioplasty, an arm lift reshapes the upper arm, from the underarm region to the elbow. An arm lift can lift and tighten up loose skin in the upper arms.

• Who is a Candidate for an Arm Lift?
• Intended Results from Arm Lifts
• Procedure Description
• Recuperation and Healing
• Other Options
• Insurance Guidelines
• Note

Who is a Candidate for an Arm Lift?

People who:

• Have sagging skin on the upper arms due to aging, genetics or weight loss. Patients who carry excess fat can expect a more subtle result.

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Intended Results from Arm Lifts

• Reduction or elimination of excess skin from the upper arms.

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Procedure Description

• The procedure is usually done under general anesthesia. In order to remove the unwanted skin, an incision is required that runs from near the elbow in the armpit.


• The incision is placed in the most inconspicuous location (inner arm toward the back), but some scarring will always be visible.

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Recuperation and Healing

• After surgery, the upper arms are either wrapped or placed in an elastic sleeve to reduce swelling. Initial healing usually occurs in 10 to 14 days.


• Swelling and bruising gradually disappear over three to four weeks. All swelling is gone in three to six months.


• The scars fade in 6 to 24 months, depending on your skin.

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Other Options

• An additional procedure that may enhance the result is liposuction of the upper arms or armpits.

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Insurance Guidelines

• An arm lift is considered cosmetic and therefore is not covered by insurance. The patient is responsible for payment.

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Note

• The specific risks and the suitability of arm lifts for a given individual can be determined only at the time of consultation. All surgical procedures have some degree of risk. Minor complications that do not affect the outcome occur occasionally. Major complications are unusual.

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