Arm Lift

An arm lift, also called a brachioplasty, is a cosmetic surgery that treats sagging underarms by reducing extra skin, tightening and smoothing tissue and removing fat.

Achieve toned, younger-looking arms by scheduling a brachioplasty consultation at Advanced Cosmetic Surgery located in Greenville, South Carolina. We offer both virtual and in-person visits and have been proudly serving the Greenville, Spartanburg, and Anderson, SC area for more than two decades.

Brachioplasty at Advanced Cosmetic Surgery

Brachioplasty, also known as an arm lift, is an outpatient procedure that resculpts the shape and contour of your arm by removing excess skin and fat. It’s frequently performed after massive weight loss, but is an effective option for anyone with loose skin on the upper arms.

Arm lift surgery can treat:

• Fat deposits
• Cellulite build-up
• Loose, sagging skin
• Side effects from lymphedema (chronic tissue swelling)

How it works

Our skilled team of plastic surgeons, nurses, and anesthesiologists will ensure a safe and successful brachioplasty procedure from start to finish.

During an arm lift procedure, your surgeon will use liposuction to remove unwanted fatty deposits. Excess skin is then excised as necessary, and the remaining skin is pulled taut towards the underarm, creating a more sculpted look. Finally, sutures are meticulously placed to minimize visible post-surgical scars.

Types of Brachioplasty

We perform four types of brachioplasty, each of which address different levels of unwanted fat and loose skin laxity. At your consultation, your surgeon will be able to determine which type will be most appropriate for you.

Limited arm lift or “hidden” arm lift

• A surgical incision is placed in the underarm crease, making it almost undetectable
• Best for limited fat deposits and minor loose skin

Short scar arm lift

• A small t-shaped incision is created in the underarm crease, and another short incision is placed on the inside of the upper arm
• Best for mild-to-moderate fat and loose skin 

Extended arm lift

• A reductive procedure that includes an armpit-to-elbow T-shaped incision and another on the back of the arm
• Best for moderate-to-severe fat and and loose skin 

L-arm lift

• A L-shaped incision extending from elbow to upper chest
• Best for severe fat deposits and skin laxity on the arms, underarms, and upper chest

Before and After Photos

Are You a Good Candidate for Brachioplasty?

Brachioplasty is a safe, effective procedure for most healthy individuals, regardless of gender or age. Good candidates:

• Have excess loose skin and fat on their upper arms 
• Have been at a stable, healthy weight for at least 4 months
• Are nonsmokers or can quit smoking for 1 month before and after surgery

What to Expect From Your Brachioplasty

Before your arm lift procedure, you and your surgeon will decide which surgery is most suitable for your needs. Preparation for surgery may look different depending on the procedure; our ACS team will provide you with information about medications and activities to avoid in the days leading up to your appointment.

Depending on the type of brachioplasty, you will be given local or general anesthesia. The procedure typically takes one to four hours. A drain may be placed at the incision site to remove fluid buildup and will need to be removed 1–2 weeks after surgery.

Because of the anesthesia and post-operative pain medication, you will need someone to drive you home from our facility.

Recovery

After your brachioplasty, you’ll need to rest for 1–2 weeks. Expect soreness, swelling, and bruising for several days that will lessen after a week. To facilitate a quick recovery and minimize swelling, keep the incision site cleaned and bandaged, elevate your arms with pillows while lying down and wear compression garments as directed by your doctor.

During recovery, it is unadvised to exercise, lift heavy objects, or physically exert yourself. A follow-up appointment will be scheduled with your surgeon 2 weeks after surgery, they’ll let you know when you’ll be able to resume daily activities.

Once your arms have healed, keep your incision scars out of direct sunlight for the next 12 months to minimize their long-term visibility.

Results

After surgery, your arms will immediately look firmer, smoother and more defined. The full results will be visible after several months once your arms have completely healed. 

If your weight remains stable, your results will last for many years; however, your skin will continue to age and therefore may appear looser again with time.

How Much Does an Arm Lift Cost?

Because our brachioplasty procedures are customized to fit your needs, there are a variety of factors that influence cost. At your consultation, we’ll provide an accurate estimate for your situation. Ask us about financing options to make this confidence-boosting surgery more affordable for you.

Arm Lift Surgery FAQ

Is the procedure safe?

Brachioplasty is generally considered a safe procedure for healthy individuals. Arm lift surgeries are outpatient procedures, meaning patients can safely recover in the comfort of their homes. The most common complications are infection, poor wound healing and persistent pain or swelling. 

Does arm lift surgery leave a scar?

Yes, brachioplasty leaves visible scars–however, our patients find that the results are worth it.

Their size depends on the version of the procedure performed; in all cases, our highly skilled surgeons use camouflaging techniques to reduce the appearance of scarring.

Does insurance cover brachioplasty?

In most cases, arm lift surgery is considered a cosmetic procedure and is not covered by health insurance.