Brachioplasty removes excess skin and fat from the upper arms. It is most commonly performed after significant weight loss, and leaves a permanent scar along the inner arm.
An arm lift addresses redundant skin and persistent fat of the upper arm that often remains after significant weight loss or develops with ageing. The scar runs along the inner aspect of the upper arm; where skin redundancy is limited to the underarm area, a short-scar variation may be possible. Weighing the improvement in arm contour against a visible scar is the central decision in this operation, and Dr Doherty will discuss it frankly at consultation.
Brachioplasty suits patients at a stable weight who understand and accept that the procedure leaves a visible scar.
Brachioplasty is typically performed as a day case or with a single overnight stay. A compression garment is worn for several weeks. Light arm activity is encouraged early; strenuous arm and upper-body activity is restricted for approximately six weeks. Scars mature over 12–18 months.
Related: See our scar management guide for the post-operative healing timeline, the daily silicone-and-massage protocol, and when to be concerned about a scar.
Specific risks include widened, thickened or visible scarring, delayed wound healing, fluid collection (seroma), changes in sensation of the inner arm, swelling of the arm or hand, and asymmetry. These are discussed in detail at your consultation.
All surgery carries risk. General risks include bleeding, infection, adverse scarring, anaesthetic complications, and the possibility of revision surgery. Risks specific to this procedure are listed above and will be discussed in detail at your consultation, where you will also receive written information to take home.
A referral from a general practitioner — ideally your usual GP — is required before a consultation for cosmetic surgery. A cooling-off period applies between informed consent and any booking for cosmetic surgery.
Recovery differs between individuals; the timeframes on this page are a general guide only. Outcomes vary from person to person.