Arm Lift Surgery Sydney

What is this procedure?

Brachioplasty (arm lift) is a surgical procedure that reduces excess skin and fat from the upper arm to change its contour and appearance. It is an invasive operation that involves cutting the skin and underlying tissue and, like all surgery, carries risks as well as potential benefits.

Cosmetic surgery is not suitable for everyone and may not address underlying concerns about body image or self-esteem; other supports, including psychological care, may sometimes be more appropriate.

Individual results vary and outcomes cannot be guaranteed. Patients considering this procedure should have a thorough consultation with a suitably qualified specialist plastic surgeon to discuss their goals, options, risks, recovery, alternatives and whether surgery is appropriate for them.

Ageing, sun damage and significant weight loss can contribute to sagging and excess skin of the upper arm. Surgery is generally considered once patients are at or near a stable goal weight and have significant excess skin in this area.

In brachioplasty, a section of excess skin and underlying tissue is removed from the upper arm. The remaining skin and supporting tissue are then tightened to change the contour of the arm.
The length and position of the incision (cut) depend on the amount and location of excess skin that needs to be removed, and may extend from the under-arm or armpit towards the elbow.

Types of brachioplasty

Minimal incision brachioplasty

In minimal incision brachioplasty, the cut is placed under the arm, aiming to allow the scar to be more easily covered by clothing.
This approach may be considered in patients who have adequate skin elasticity and only a small amount of excess skin, following assessment by the surgeon.

Extended brachioplasty

In extended brachioplasty, the cut may start above the elbow and continue along the upper arm into the armpit and sometimes onto the chest wall (often described as an L-shaped pattern).
This technique may be considered when there is a larger amount of sagging skin involving both the upper arm and the chest wall.
The incision is usually placed on the inside of the arm where it may be less visible when the arms are held against the body.

Liposuction

Liposuction may be used on its own or in combination with an arm lift to remove excess fatty tissue from the under and outer arm areas.
The decision to use liposuction, brachioplasty, or a combination of procedures depends on the individual patient’s anatomy, skin quality, goals, and the treating surgeon’s assessment.

Before-and-after images, when provided, are intended for general information only and show results in individual patients; they do not predict or guarantee outcomes for any other person.
Results will vary between individuals due to many factors including age, genetics, weight changes, and adherence to post-operative instructions.
Any images should be viewed together with clear information about risks and recovery, and with the understanding that surgery leaves permanent scars and involves a period of downtime.

This information is educational in nature and is not a substitute for a personalised consultation and medical advice from a qualified practitioner.

What can be achieved?

Brachioplasty may be considered for patients who have significant excess skin and/or soft tissue of the upper arms, including patients after major weight loss who are at or near a stable weight, and patients seeking a change in arm contour for cosmetic reasons.

It is important to have realistic expectations and to understand that surgery will leave permanent scars and carries risks such as infection, bleeding, delayed wound healing, asymmetry, changes in sensation, and the possibility of further procedures.

Potential benefits for appropriately selected patients may include:

• Changing the shape and contour of the upper arm to achieve a tighter or more proportional appearance, within the limits of the patient’s anatomy.
• Reducing localised excess fat of the upper arm when combined with liposuction where appropriate.
• Allowing some patients to find that certain clothing styles fit more comfortably around the upper arm region.

Some patients report feeling more comfortable with the appearance of their arms after surgery; however, cosmetic surgery does not address underlying psychological conditions and should not be relied upon as a treatment for low self-esteem or body image disorders.

All patients considering cosmetic surgery should undergo a comprehensive assessment, which may include screening for conditions such as body dysmorphic disorder where indicated, and a detailed discussion with a specialist plastic surgeon before deciding whether brachioplasty is suitable.

Arm lift at a glance

Preparing for your arm lift consultation

• Bring your medical history, including previous surgery, current medications and supplements.
• Note any weight change and whether your weight is now stable.
• Write down questions about the techniques, scars, recovery and risks.
• Clinical photographs may be taken, with your consent, to help plan surgery.

A referral from your GP is required before a cosmetic surgery consultation. Under current Australian requirements, at least two pre-operative consultations and a cooling-off period of at least seven days are required before surgery is booked.

Recovery after an arm lift

• First days: swelling and discomfort are common and are managed with prescribed pain relief.
• Compression garments are usually worn to support healing and reduce swelling.
• Return to work: often after one to two weeks, depending on your work.
• Strenuous activity and heavy lifting are avoided for several weeks, as advised by your surgeon.
• Scars are permanent and usually fade over many months.

Individual recovery varies, and you will receive personalised aftercare instructions.

Risks and complications

All surgery carries risks. Risks of an arm lift include, but are not limited to:

• Visible or widened scarring
• Asymmetry between the arms
• Infection, bleeding and delayed wound healing
• Changes in skin sensation, which may be temporary or permanent
• Seroma (fluid collection)
• Blood clots and anaesthetic complications
• The need for further surgery

These risks will be discussed in detail at your consultation. For more on surgical risks, see understanding surgical risks and complications.

Arm lift cost and Medicare

The cost of an arm lift depends on the technique and complexity, and includes the surgeon’s, anaesthetist’s and hospital fees and aftercare. A detailed written estimate is provided after your consultation. Where surgery is medically indicated, for example after significant weight loss, part of the cost may be covered by Medicare or private health insurance; check with your provider.

Arm lift FAQs

How long does arm lift surgery take?

The length of the operation depends on the technique and the amount of skin removed, and whether liposuction or other procedures are performed at the same time.

Will I have visible scars?

Yes. Arm lift scars are permanent and usually sit on the inside or back of the upper arm, where they may be less visible with the arms by your side. They usually fade over time.

When can I return to normal activities?

Most patients return to normal activities within four to six weeks, although individual recovery varies.

Can an arm lift be combined with other procedures?

An arm lift may be combined with liposuction, or with procedures such as a body lift after weight loss, where this is safe. This is assessed at consultation.

Clinician
Surgeon: Dr. Mohammad Hassan Mohaghegh
Titles: MD, MPhil, FRACS (Plast)
AHPRA ID: MED0001627149
AHPRA Registration Type: Registered medical practitioner, Specialist Plastic Surgeon (specialist registration in Surgery – Plastic Surgery)
Website: drmohaghegh.com.au
Phone: 1300 074 466
Email: hello@drmohaghegh.com.au
Address: Shop 1/161 New South Head Rd, Edgecliff, NSW 2027