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Arm Lift Surgery

Brachioplasty Procedures In Northern Virginia

Our mission at Elle Aesthetic Arts & Plastic Surgery is to help men and women feel confident in their bodies. We are proud to offer advanced body contouring procedures like brachioplasty that dramatically improve the appearance of the upper arms by toning and smoothing the skin for a more proportionate and youthful appearance.

Reasons for Arm Lift Surgery

Many men and women who desire arm lift surgery typically have lost a significant amount of weight and have concerns about extra skin on the arms that sags, resembling “bat wings”. Others may seek an arm lift procedure to correct arm laxity that has occurred due to age or genetics. Common reasons for arm lift surgery include:

  • Desire for shapely and well-defined upper arms
  • Improve the proportion of the upper arm to the forearm
  • Address hygiene issues related to excess folds of upper arm skin 
  • Improve physical comfort

Benefits Of Arm Lift Surgery

Brachioplasty offers both cosmetic and emotional benefits for individuals looking to improve the appearance of their upper arms. Arm lift surgery can help restore a firmer, more youthful arm contour. Benefits can include:

  • Reduces sagging skin and excess fat from the upper arms
  • Smooths wrinkled or crepey skin
  • Enhances tone and contour of the upper arms
  • Improves self-confidence

How Arm Lift Surgery Works

Brachioplasty is an outpatient surgical procedure performed under general anesthesia. Dr. Lickstein will begin by making an incision along the inside of the upper arm from axilla to the elbow. If you also require fat removal during your arm lift, Dr.  Lickstein may use liposuction in addition to surgical excision. Once he has achieved optimal upper arm contour, your incisions will be closed with absorbable sutures and your arms will be wrapped in a compression garment.

Arm Lift Surgery Recovery 

After your arm lift surgery, you’ll be given post-op instructions to follow for an optimal recovery.3 It’s important to plan ahead for a family member or friend to drive you home and stay with you overnight. While it’s common to experience mild pain after the arm lift procedure, Dr. Lickstein will provide you with pain medication to ensure your optimal comfort during the healing process. Your individual recovery time can vary, but for most patients most swelling and discomfort has subsided in approximately one week and they are able to resume your regular routine though there may be some restrictions on strenuous activity.

FAQs About Arm Lift Surgery

  • Am I a good candidate for arm lift surgery?

    If you want to remove excess skin and fat that is loose and sagging on the upper arms, arm lift surgery may be right for you. Good candidates for arm lift are non-smokers at a stable healthy weight, and are in good general health.4

  • Can I combine arm lift surgery with other plastic surgery procedures?

    Yes, arm lift surgery is often combined with other cosmetic surgeries such as body lift, tummy tuck (abdominoplasty), breast lift, breast augmentation, or is included as part of a mommy makeover.

  • Will I have scars after arm lift surgery?

    Arm lift scars are permanent, but Dr. Lickstein will place incisions where resulting scars won’t be easily visible.5 He will also advise you on skin care to minimize scarring.