Arm Lift

An Arm Lift or ‘brachioplasty’,or arm reduction surgery is a procedure that can improve the shape and tone of the upper arms by removing excess skin that has lost elasticity and localised fat deposits.

As a result of growing older or significant weight loss, the upper arms can develop sagging skin (‘bingo wings’) that can hang from the underarm. The droopy skin on the underside of the upper arms can be reshaped with an arm lift  – arm reduction surgery, but the trade-off are noticeable scars on the inner arms, which will show. However, by removing the loose skin, an arm lift or brachioplasty can successfully bring back the shape of the upper arms, balancing proportions and restoring confidence.

Brachioplasty Procedure

A brachioplasty is carried out under general anaesthetic at our Chester or Wirral clinics. Incisions will be made on the underside of the upper arm, and the tissue on the inside will be tightened and reshaped, removing any excess fat and skin with the remaining skin pulled together and stitched up.

Depending on what technique of arm lift is used, the scars may be placed only in the armpit and only for a short distance on the inner part of the arm or along the inside of the arm from the elbow to the armpit.

Arm Lift Recovery

The extent of your arm lift surgery, determines whether you can go home on the same day as the brachioplasty procedure, or whether an overnight stay will be required. Drains may be required postoperatively for a day. A period of gentle recovery of around 2 weeks, including time off work will be advised. After 2 weeks you can commence gentle massaging of the treated areas and professional manual lymphatic drainage on a regular basis. A tight pressure garment is required to be worn day and night for six weeks. Follow-up appointments will be arranged at 1, 2 and 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months and 1 year post surgery to closely monitor your physical well-being.

Arm Reduction Results

The full results of this procedure can be seen after 3 to 6 months, when the treated area has settled and scarring has started to fade. The arm will be better contoured, smoother and more toned. Maintaining the results from this treatment will benefit from keeping up a healthy lifestyle. .