Arm Lift (Brachioplasty)

Restoring a More Youthful Arm Contour

Loose skin of the upper arms commonly develops following significant weight loss, with aging, or because of hereditary skin laxity. Even after successful weight loss and regular exercise, excess skin often remains and may interfere with clothing, self-confidence, or physical activity.



An arm lift, or brachioplasty, removes excess skin and reshapes the upper arm to restore a smoother, firmer, and more proportionate contour.

Every Arm Is Different

Some patients have minimal skin laxity confined to the upper arm, while others—particularly after major weight loss—have excess skin extending toward the side of the chest.


During your consultation, Dr. Branch carefully evaluates:


  • The amount and location of excess skin
  • Skin quality and elasticity
  • Fat distribution
  • Weight stability
  • Your overall body proportions
  • Your personal goals


The operation is then individualized to achieve the best contour while placing scars as inconspicuously as possible.

Our Surgical Approach

Dr. Branch believes the primary problem in most patients seeking brachioplasty is excess skin rather than excess fat.


For that reason, brachioplasty is usually performed without liposuction. Removing the redundant skin directly often provides the smoothest and most predictable contour while preserving healthy circulation to the remaining tissues.


The incision is carefully positioned along the inner aspect of the upper arm where it generally follows the natural seam of a short-sleeved shirt. When excess skin extends beyond the arm, the incision may continue onto the side of the chest beneath the bra line, allowing a smoother transition between the arm and torso.


Although every arm lift results in a permanent scar, careful placement allows the scar to remain well concealed in most everyday activities.



Dr. Branch also does not routinely use surgical drains following brachioplasty, allowing most patients a more comfortable recovery.

What to Expect

Brachioplasty is generally performed as an outpatient procedure in our private, AAAASF-accredited Cosmetic Surgery Center.


Most patients return to light daily activities within one to two weeks. Compression garments are commonly recommended during the early healing period to minimize swelling and support the new arm contour.



While improvement is visible immediately, swelling continues to resolve over several weeks, and scars gradually mature over the following year.

Understanding the Risks

As with any surgical procedure, brachioplasty carries potential risks, including bleeding, infection, delayed wound healing, fluid collections, asymmetry, numbness, widening of scars, contour irregularities, recurrent skin laxity over time, and the possible need for revision surgery.



These risks are reviewed carefully during your consultation so that you can make an informed decision.

The Consultation Matters Most

Many patients considering brachioplasty have worked incredibly hard to lose weight and improve their health. Removing the remaining excess skin is often the final step in completing that journey.


During your consultation, Dr. Branch will discuss your goals, examine your anatomy, explain the expected scar placement, and determine whether an arm lift alone—or in combination with other body contouring procedures—is most appropriate for you.



The goal is not simply to remove loose skin. It is to restore natural arm contours that fit comfortably within your overall body proportions while allowing you to enjoy the results of your hard work with confidence.

Before & After

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