Arm Lift Surgery (Brachioplasty): Firm Arm Contour

Arms are one of the most mobile and visible parts of our body. However, due to significant weight loss (especially after bariatric surgery), aging, or genetic factors, noticeable loosening and sagging of the skin can occur in the upper arm region. This condition, commonly referred to as "bat wings," does not improve with exercise and can cause significant self-consciousness, preventing individuals from wearing short-sleeved, sleeveless, or tight-fitting tops. It is at this point that Arm Lift Surgery (medically known as Brachioplasty), a permanent and effective solution offered by modern aesthetic surgery, comes into play.

This operation restores a firm, smooth, and youthful contour to the arms by removing sagging excess skin and some fat tissue. At his clinic in Istanbul, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yalçın Bayram plans the most current arm lift techniques with a personalized approach, aiming to provide you with an aesthetic appearance that allows you to move your arms freely and comfortably wear the clothes you desire.

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What is Arm Lift Surgery (Brachioplasty)?

Arm lift surgery is the procedure involving the surgical removal of sagging skin and excess fat tissue from the inner and back portion of the upper arm, extending from the armpit towards the elbow, to restore a tighter arm shape. This operation is not a weight-loss method but a body contouring procedure for individuals who are content with their current weight but are bothered by skin sagging.

Difference Between Liposuction and Arm Lift: Although often mentioned together, these two procedures target different problems. Liposuction alone may be sufficient for individuals with good skin elasticity but localized excess fat in the arms. An arm lift, however, is essential when the primary issue is excess skin and sagging. Often, to achieve the best result, liposuction is combined with arm lift surgery to better slim and shape the area.

Who is a Good Candidate for Arm Lift Surgery?

• After Massive Weight Loss: Individuals who have undergone obesity surgery (Post Bariatric Surgery) or lost a significant amount of weight through diet and have noticeable skin sagging on their arms are the most ideal candidates.

• Age-Related Sagging: Individuals experiencing looseness and sagging in the upper arm area due to loss of skin elasticity with advancing age.

• Genetic Factors: Those with genetically loose skin structure prone to sagging arms, even without weight issues.

• Not Suitable for Overweight Patients: Patients with excessive fat in the arm area are not suitable candidates for this surgery initially. In these cases, reducing arm fat with liposuction first, waiting 3-6 months, and then addressing the sagging skin with an arm lift is a more appropriate approach.

• Stable Weight: Achieving and maintaining an ideal stable weight for at least 6 months before surgery is important for obtaining the most lasting results.

• Realistic Expectations: Patients who understand that this surgery will leave a permanent scar and accept that the resulting firm and aesthetic arm contour is worth the scar.

Arm Lift Surgery and Incision (Scar) Planning

The most common concern patients have regarding arm lift surgery is the resulting scar. The incision (scar) is planned based on the degree of sagging, always aiming to place it in the least conspicuous area possible.

Mini Arm Lift (Short Scar)

Preferred in cases where sagging is mild and concentrated near the armpit. The incision is hidden entirely within the armpit crease. The amount of skin that can be removed with this technique is limited and may not fully correct the "bat wing" appearance.

Standard Arm Lift (Long Scar)

This is the most frequently performed technique and yields the most effective results, ideal for patients with significant sagging.

• Incision Location: The incision starts in the armpit and extends towards the elbow along the inner aspect of the arm. Positioning the scar this way ensures it is not noticeable from the side or front when the arm is in a normal resting position. The scar becomes visible only when the arms are raised.

Extended Arm Lift

Preferred especially after massive weight loss when sagging extends beyond the arm onto the side of the chest wall. In addition to the standard incision, the scar extends from the armpit down the side of the chest in an L-shape.

Arm Lift Surgery Recovery Process

• First Week: A hospital stay of usually 1 night is sufficient post-surgery. Drains may be placed to evacuate excess fluid. Swelling, bruising, and pain in the arms are noticeable during this period and are managed with medication. Keeping the arms elevated above heart level for the first few days and wearing a special arm compression garment (sleeves) is important. Drains are typically removed the day after surgery or the following day.

• 2-4 Weeks: Sutures are removed (if non-dissolvable). Patients continue to wear the special compression garment during this period. Excessive use of the arms, especially lifting them high, should be avoided. Most patients can return to desk jobs within 2 weeks.

• 6-8 Weeks: With doctor's approval, sports and more strenuous physical activities can be gradually started. The new, firm contour of the arms becomes largely apparent, although the scars are still red and noticeable.

• 6 Months - 1.5 Years: It can take this long for the surgical scars to mature, fade in color (from pink/red to skin tone), and reach their final appearance. During this period, scar creams and silicone sheets recommended by your doctor can help improve scar healing.

Arm Lift Surgery Costs 2025

Arm lift surgery costs vary depending on the extent of the technique used (mini, standard, or extended), whether additional procedures like liposuction are included, the surgeon's experience, and the standards of the hospital where the surgery is performed. Precise, personalized pricing can only be determined after a detailed examination with Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yalçın Bayram.

Frequently Asked Questions About Arm Lift Surgery (Brachioplasty)

Will the scar remaining after arm lift surgery look very bad?

Arm lift surgery leaves a noticeable and permanent scar; this is an unavoidable part of the operation. The placement of the scars must be explained to the patient understandably before the surgery. If not performed with the correct indication and technique, arm lift scars can be very bothersome. For instance, performing an arm lift on a patient with excessive arm fat increases the risk of wound healing problems and poor scarring. However, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yalçın Bayram hides this scar along the least visible inner line of the arm. Although the scar fades over time becoming less noticeable, it does not disappear completely. The vast majority of patients feel that getting rid of the "bat wing" appearance and the functional problems caused by sagging is worth accepting the scar.

How long should I wear the arm sleeves/compression garment after arm lift surgery?

The compression garment is crucial for controlling swelling, helping the skin adapt to its new contour, and accelerating healing. It is generally recommended to wear it for 2 weeks post-surgery.

Can liposuction alone correct arm sagging?

No. If the primary problem is skin sagging and looseness, liposuction alone cannot solve it; in fact, it can cause the skin to deflate further and sag more. Liposuction is effective only for individuals with good skin elasticity and stubborn excess fat in the arms. Sagging skin can only be corrected by surgical removal.

Are the results of arm lift surgery permanent?

Yes, since the excess skin removed does not grow back, the results are permanent. However, future significant weight fluctuations or the natural effects of aging can slightly affect skin elasticity over time. Maintaining an ideal weight helps preserve the results for many years.

When can I start exercising after arm lift surgery?

Light-paced walking can typically begin 2-3 weeks after surgery. However, weight training involving the arm muscles and strenuous upper body exercises should generally be avoided for at least 6-8 weeks.

Is scarless arm lift surgery possible?

No. If there is significant skin sagging, this excess skin must be removed, which inevitably means an incision scar. Methods marketed as "scarless arm lifts," such as laser or radiofrequency, can only provide minimal tightening in individuals with very mild skin laxity; they are completely ineffective in correcting the "bat wing" appearance.