How Does an Arm Lift (Brachioplasty) Work and Will It Leave Scars?
QUICK ANSWER
An arm lift (brachioplasty) surgically removes excess, sagging skin from the inner upper arm — from the armpit to the elbow. It does leave a scar along the inner arm, but the scar is hidden when arms rest at the sides and fades significantly over 12 to 18 months. Recovery takes two to four weeks for most normal activities.
What Is an Arm Lift (Brachioplasty)?
Brachioplasty is a surgical body contouring procedure that removes excess skin and, in most cases, reshapes underlying tissue along the inner upper arm. It is among the most effective solutions for loose, sagging upper arm skin — commonly called “bat wings” — that persists after massive weight loss, aging, or significant fluctuation in body weight.
Exercise can build the underlying triceps muscle, but it cannot retract skin that has lost elasticity. An arm lift is the only reliable method for addressing significant upper arm skin laxity.
Who Is a Good Candidate for an Arm Lift?
- Adults with significant loose, sagging skin on the inner upper arm
- Those who have experienced massive weight loss (through diet, exercise, or bariatric surgery)
- Those at a stable, healthy weight for at least six months
- Non-smokers, or those who can stop smoking well before surgery
- Those who understand and accept the trade-off of a scar for improved arm contour
- Those with realistic expectations — a brachioplasty improves shape but does not produce a “perfect” arm
How Is Brachioplasty Performed?
An arm lift is typically performed under general anesthesia as an outpatient procedure. An incision is made along the inner surface of the arm, running from the armpit to near the elbow. The incision length varies based on the extent of skin excess:
- Limited-incision arm lift: For minimal sagging; incision confined to the armpit. Suitable for select patients.
- Standard brachioplasty: Incision from armpit to near the elbow. Most common technique.
Excess skin is removed, underlying tissue is reshaped, and remaining skin is sutured into position. Liposuction may be used in combination to further refine the arm contour.
Will an Arm Lift Leave Scars?
Yes. A scar is an inherent part of brachioplasty — it is the fundamental trade-off of the procedure. The scar runs along the inner surface of the upper arm. When the arms rest at the sides, it is not visible. Dr. Dorafshar uses meticulous closure techniques to minimize scar width and appearance.
Scars progress through stages:
- Weeks 1–4: Red, raised, and most visible
- Months 2–6: Pink and softening
- Months 6–18: Fading to a pale or skin-toned linear mark
Scar care measures — including silicone sheeting, massage, and sun protection — can further improve final scar appearance and should be discussed with Dr. Dorafshar’s team.
What Is Recovery Like After an Arm Lift?
- Days 1–5: Rest, arm elevation, compression dressing, limited arm movement
- Weeks 1–2: Light activities with arms; avoid reaching overhead
- Weeks 2–4: Return to desk work and normal daily activities
- Weeks 4–6: Full activity including exercise typically resumes
- Months 6–18: Scar matures and fades
Frequently Asked Questions
Can liposuction alone address bat wings without an arm lift scar?
If the primary concern is excess fat with good skin elasticity, liposuction alone may produce a meaningful improvement without a long scar. However, if there is significant skin laxity — which is common after weight loss — liposuction alone will worsen the sagging appearance. Dr. Dorafshar evaluates skin elasticity at consultation.
Can an arm lift be combined with other body contouring procedures?
Yes. Arm lifts are frequently combined with tummy tucks, body lifts, thigh lifts, and breast procedures — particularly in post-massive-weight-loss body contouring plans. Combining procedures reduces total recovery time versus staging separately.
How much does an arm lift cost?
An arm lift at Evolve Your Life in Chicago typically costs $5,000 to $12,000 depending on extent of skin excess and whether liposuction is added. Financing is available through Cherry, CareCredit and PatientFi.
How long does arm lift surgery take?
A standard brachioplasty takes one to three hours depending on the extent of correction needed and whether liposuction is performed simultaneously.
When will I see the final results of my arm lift?
Results are immediately visible in terms of improved contour. Final results — with swelling fully resolved and scars faded — are typically apparent at nine to twelve months.
NEXT STEP FOR PATIENTS
Schedule an arm lift consultation with Dr. Amir Dorafshar at any of the Evolve Your Life locations, Chicago, Oak Brook, and Peoria. Call (312) 278-9000, or book here https://www.evolveyourlife.com/contact/book-consultation/.
