Arm Lift – Brachioplasty

Fluctuations in weight, aging and heredity can cause the upper arms to have significant sagging or loose skin. This is a condition that cannot be corrected through diet and exercise. A procedure known as an arm lift or brachioplasty can significantly reduce that loose skin and create a smoother, more youthful appearance.

Choose an arm lift for the following:

• Eliminate excess skin, especially after major weight loss
• Improve self-esteem with a more youthful, smooth appearance to the arms
• Firming and toning the underlying skin

• Your Consultation
• Your Procedure
• Your Recovery
• Arm Lift Procedure

Your Consultation

In the initial consultation, board-certified plastic surgeon Thomas Crabtree, MD will use the time to get to know you, learn about your expectations and discuss a plan to achieve your goals. This may be a part of a post-bariatric weight loss body-contouring plan. For these patients, an arm lift can be an integral part of completing their body transformation. He will discuss the different variables of surgery and risks. Prior to surgery you will have a good understanding of the procedure, plan and recovery. In some cases, Dr. Crabtree can perform Vaser^® Liposuction in conjunction with Renuvion J-Plasma^® to tighten and reduce the sagging skin.

This type of surgery can be done in the clinic under local anesthesia. In the consultation, Dr. Crabtree will guide you in deciding which surgery is more suitable for your goals. If you decide you are ready to proceed you will set a date for surgery and be given instructions on how to prepare. You will also schedule a pre-operative appointment to review your medical history, take pre-operative photographs, and confirm the details of your surgery.

Your Procedure

Brachioplasty is performed by removing excess skin and tissue from the upper portion of the arms. The specific technique utilized will depend on one’s skin quality and the amount of skin that needs to be excised to achieve an ideal outcome. Dr. Crabtree may also use liposuction to remove localized pockets of fat and create a smoother, more toned final result. Typically, the procedure takes two to three hours.

The arm lift procedure is usually performed on an outpatient basis under general anesthesia, and Dr. Crabtree works with a board-certified operating team to maximize the safety and efficacy of treatment.

Back of Arm Incision

Inner Arm Incision

Minimal Incision

Your Recovery

Following brachioplasty, you can typically expect an accelerated rate of recovery due to our extensive postoperative care program designed by the Crabtree Plastic Surgery team. To help reduce swelling and assist with the natural tightening of skin, a special compression garment is placed right after surgery and should be worn as recommended by Dr. Crabtree. Some moderate bruising and tenderness can be expected, but these symptoms should gradually diminish over the course of a few weeks. Most office jobs and normal daily routines can be resumed after about three to five days, though any strenuous or physical activities will need to be avoided for at least three to four weeks.

Throughout the entire recovery process, Dr. Crabtree and our team will be available to answer questions, address any concerns, and monitor your progress.