Arm Lift (Brachioplasty)

An arm lift, or brachioplasty, is an operation performed to remove excess skin and fat from the upper arm. Aging and significant weight loss can contribute to sagging of arm skin, most noticeable with arm elevation. To tighten the arm skin, Dr. Braithwaite usually makes an incision along the inside of the arm, extending from the underarm area to the elbow. Scars are usually hidden with the arm at one’s side. Liposuction is often added to this procedure to improve final shape and contour. Depending on skin excess and elasticity, liposuction alone may provide sufficient improvement. Dr. Braithwaite performs brachioplasties under general anesthesia as an outpatient procedure. We instruct arm lift patients to wear a compression garment for several weeks. Light arm movement is encouraged soon after surgery but strenuous upper body activity is limited for at least several weeks. Patients may drive and return to work once they discontinue narcotic pain medicine.

For more information about arm lift surgery or to schedule a complimentary consultation at our Chicago plastic surgery practice, please contact us via email or call (312) 361-8108 today.