With weight fluctuations, aging, and as a result of heredity, the upper arms can lose definition, and begin to appear saggy and loose. Arm lift surgery reduces pockets of fat and excess sagging skin and tightens the underlying supporting tissue that defines the shape of the upper arm. This procedure can create more attractive contours of the upper arm from the underarm to the elbow.

What is an arm lift?

An arm lift is technically termed a brachioplasty. It is a cosmetic surgery procedure to reshape and improve the contours of the upper arms and the connecting area of the chest wall. In this procedure, excess fat and skin are removed between the elbow and the armpit, and underlying tissues are smoothed and tightened. Arm lift is often recommended for patients who have loose, sagging skin or drooping undersides of the upper arms.

Why choose our practice?

Dr. Darren Smith has unparalleled training, and that leads to superlative outcomes. He is a board-certified plastic surgeon who has completed both an aesthetic surgery fellowship and a craniofacial fellowship.

Our practice is dedicated to providing the highest level of service and patient care. You can expect a warm, friendly, comfortable environment, advanced patient safety protocols, and personalized aftercare, in addition to exceptional results.

When it comes to your needs, Dr. Smith is a conservative surgeon. He never just jumps into advising surgery. He takes all the time he needs to assess the correct approach and focuses on building long-term relationships with his patients.

What happens during an arm lift procedure?

Arm lift can be performed with general anesthesia or intravenous sedation.
Incision lengths and patterns may depend on several factors, including the amount and location of excess skin to be removed. Generally, incisions are placed on the inside or the back of the arm and may extend from the underarm to just above the elbow.
If the excess tissue is located at the top of the upper arm only, you may be a candidate for a minimal, crescent-shaped incision in the armpit area.
Excess fat may be treated with liposuction or excised directly.
Internal sutures are used to tighten and reshape underlying tissues, after which the skin is smoothed over the new contours of the arm and excess skin is removed.
Incisions are closed with sutures.

What can I expect during recovery?

Dressings or bandages will be applied after surgery, and your arms may be wrapped in a compression garment to help minimize swelling.
Small tubes may be placed under the skin to drain off excess blood or fluid.
Medications will be prescribed to control any pain or discomfort and to help prevent infection.
Avoid lifting your arms above shoulder level for several weeks after surgery, as instructed by Dr. Smith.
Avoid physical activities using your arms that might stretch your incisions for four to eight weeks after the procedure, or as instructed.

FAQ about arm lift surgery

Why have an arm lift?

As we age, the skin on the upper arms loses its elasticity and begins to sag. Significant weight loss can also cause droopy upper arms. Exercise can strengthen the upper arms and improve muscle tone, but it cannot correct loose, sagging skin.

How long will results last after an arm lift in NYC?

Results of arm lift surgery are long-lasting. However, the normal aging process will continue and could result in some changes. Your results could also be affected if you gain or lose a significant amount of weight.

How painful is arm lift surgery?

All surgical body contouring procedures involve some discomfort. Most patients only require prescription pain medications for the first few days after an arm lift in NYC and report that pain and discomfort are tolerable.