Arm Lift (Brachioplasty) in Northern Virginia

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What is Arm Lift Surgery?

The Austin-Weston Center for Cosmetic Surgery in Reston, VA is pleased to offer arm lift surgery to patients in Northern Virginia. Our plastic surgeons are dedicated to providing each of our patients with individualized service and look forward to helping them achieve their cosmetic goals. We understand it can be frustrating to work out for hours every week in the gym and not be able to slim down or tone hard-to-reach areas like the upper arms. With arm lift surgery, also known as brachioplasty, excess upper arm skin is removed and tightened to create a more defined look. This procedure often combines liposuction as well to reduce stubborn fat pockets. 

What Are The Benefits Of An Arm Lift?

A personalized arm lift surgery performed by our skilled team of plastic surgeons at Austin-Weston, The Center for Cosmetic Surgery, has a host of positive aesthetic and functional benefits, including:

  • Removing excess loose skin
  • Reducing excess fat
  • Tightening and toning the arms
  • Achieving a more youthful look
  • Improving mobility and allowing you to be more active
  • Increasing comfort by reducing chafing and rubbing
  • Results are dramatic and long-lasting
  • Gives a boost to self-image and confidence
  • Allows you to wear a wider variety of clothing

Preparing for Arm Lift

Recovery Time

4-6 Weeks

Starting Cost

From: $8,300

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Am I a Candidate for Arm Lift Surgery?

While weight loss can cause sagging skin to appear on the arms, some loose arm skin can also be a result of genetics. This makes it very difficult to tone the upper arm to an individual’s desire. When diet and exercise fail to tone the upper arm, an arm lift can create outstanding results. Ideal candidates for an arm lift exhibit:

  • Loose, sagging arm skin (bat wings) that is present after weight loss or aging
  • Excess arm fat that may result in loose skin after liposuction alone

For patients with hanging skin and large fatty deposits, a staged procedure is sometimes recommended. This consists of a first surgery which is liposuction of the entire arm, and then a healing period of several months to allow the swelling to reside. After the first surgery, the arm is more deflated with excess skin. The second surgery is then performed to remove the extra arm skin and give an ultimately tighter result than a single operation could achieve.

How is Arm Lift Surgery Performed?

Arm lift surgery is performed under general anesthesia, and the arm lift incision typically runs from the elbow to the armpit area. This allows extra skin on the upper arm to be removed and a scar to be placed from armpit to elbow. The scar can be longer or shorter depending on the amount of excess skin and any other procedures you may also desire at the same time. Arm lift scars may be tapered into a breast lift or breast reduction to help remove stubborn armpit fat at the same time. 

This surgery takes about two hours and there is usually no need for an overnight stay unless the patient desires it or if the patient is having multiple other procedures. Patients should be prepared for temporary swelling and bruising after the surgery. To promote healthy healing and blood circulation, the arms should be kept elevated. Patients can usually return to normal activities in about 3 – 4 weeks. Final results are seen at  3 – 4 months.

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What Results Can I Expect from Arm Lift Surgery?

For best results, an arm lift may require liposuction of the fat deposits within the upper arm to make the final look slim and trim. During your consultation, one of our Northern Virginia plastic surgeons will discuss the best course of action given your skin health and condition. Keep in mind that arm stretch marks are often removed along with the extra skin, but if weight is regained, it could damage the treated area. An arm lift gives patients the opportunity to have more defined arms for years to come. As long as your weight is kept stable, your arm should age along with the rest of your body to maintain a shapely result.

Get Tighter Arms Today

Brachioplasty, also known as an arm lift, is one of the most popular cosmetic treatments following weight loss for both men and women. For all of your hard work, you deserve upper body definition. Achieve slender, leaner arms that you can be proud to show off in sleeveless shirts or summertime attire. Call today for an arm lift consultation at our Reston, VA office.

Can I combine an arm lift with other surgeries?

It's common for patients who want an arm lift to combine this surgery with another procedure. This is sometimes referred to as an upper body lift and may combine liposuction, abdominoplasty (tummy tuck), or a breast lift. An arm lift is also commonly done as part of an after weight loss surgery plan for patients who have lost a significant amount of weight and want full body contouring. During your consultation with a member of the Austin-Weston team, complementary surgeries can be discussed so your custom surgical plan can be developed.

Will I have scars?

An arm lift requires incisions in order to excise loose skin, which leads to stitches and scarring. However, your surgeon in Northern Virginia will make every effort to use small, thin incisions placed in less visible areas. Following your arm lift, topical creams to assist in scar healing are typically recommended along with other tips for minimizing scarring. We also recommend you limit UV exposure during the first year to protect the incisions from any additional discoloration. Most patients believe the overall benefits of a more toned arm outweigh the appearance of scars.

What results can I expect from a brachioplasty?

An arm lift is used to correct hanging skin and stubborn pockets of fat. You should follow a healthy lifestyle that includes diet and exercise to avoid a significant change in your weight, which might undo your results. After your lift surgery, as soon as your arms are fully healed and your Austin-Weston surgeon has given permission, you can begin strength training. This is a good way to add shape to your upper arms by toning and strengthening the muscles.

*Individual results are not guaranteed and may vary from person to person. Images may contain models.