Arm Lift

An arm lift (brachioplasty) removes loose, sagging skin and excess fat from the upper arms to create a firmer, more toned contour. It is a skin-removal procedure, not a weight-loss method, and it is most common after major weight loss or with aging, when exercise can no longer tighten the skin often called “bat wings.” Techniques range from a mini arm lift with a hidden underarm incision to a standard or extended arm lift, and liposuction can be added in the same session.

Arm Lift | Overview

Procedure Detail

 

Type Surgical: removal of excess skin and fat from the upper arms through an incision on the inner arm or underarm; can be combined with liposuction.
Anesthesia Local and General. 
Duration Around 1 to 3 hours, depending on the technique and the amount of skin removed.
Hospital stay Outpatient: same-day discharge.
Areas treated Upper arms, from the armpit to the elbow; the extended technique also treats the side of the chest.
Return to work Around 1 to 2 weeks for desk jobs and 2 to 3 weeks for work that required moving or lifting.
Final results Between 3 and 6 months, once swelling resolves; scars keep fading for up to a year.
Price The prices may change on your condition; final quote confirmed at consultation based on the technique used and any combined procedures.
Financing Available through Cherry Financing and Alphaeon.
Consultation Free

 

THE PROCEDURE

 

What is an arm lift and how is it performed?

An arm lift, or brachioplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the upper arms and tightens the remaining tissue for a firmer, smoother contour. It is performed under general anesthesia as an outpatient procedure and generally takes 1 to 3 hours, depending on the technique and how much skin is removed. Your surgeon customizes the technique and incision placement to your anatomy and goals during your free consultation.

→ General anesthesia vs. local anesthesia: which is the best option?

What problems does an arm lift correct?

An arm lift corrects loose, hanging skin on the back and underside of the upper arms, often called “bat wings,” along with the fat that accumulates in the same area. This laxity usually comes from major weight loss, aging, pregnancy or genetics, and it does not respond to diet, exercise or toning, because stretched skin cannot shrink back on its own. The result is arms that look firmer in sleeveless clothing and fit better in fitted sleeves.

→ Arm lift: restore the firmness and shape of your arms

Will I have scars, and where will they be?

Yes. Because an arm lift removes skin, it leaves a longer scar than liposuction. With a standard arm lift, the scar runs along the inner or back of the upper arm, from the armpit toward the elbow, where it is least visible when your arms are at your sides. With a mini arm lift, the scar is hidden in the armpit. Scars start pink or red and fade significantly over the following 6 to 12 months, but leave a permanent line.

 

TECHNIQUES AND ALTERNATIVES

 

What arm lift techniques exist, and which do we offer?

The technique determines the length and placement of the scar and how much skin can be removed. Here is how the options compare:

 

Technique What it involves Do we offer it? Best suited for
Mini arm lift A short incision hidden in the armpit; skin is tightened from the top of the arm. Yes Mild loose skin close to the underarm.
Standard arm lift An incision along the inner or back of the upper arm, from the armpit toward the elbow. Yes Moderate to significant loose skin along the upper arm.
Extended arm lift The incision continues from the arm along the side of the chest. Yes Loose skin on the arm and chest wall, common after major weight loss.
Arm lift with liposuction Liposuction removes stubborn fat before the excess skin is removed. Yes Patients with both loose skin and localized fat in the arms.

→ Brachioplasty: arm lift for firm, youthful arms

Arm lift, arm liposuction or J-Plasma: which one do I need?

The right procedure depends on whether your main concern is fat, loose skin, or both:

 

Arm lift Arm liposuction J-Plasma
Removes Excess skin and fat Fat only Fat, with skin tightening
Best for Skin that hangs or folds Good skin elasticity with localized fat Mild skin laxity with localized fat
Scar Along the inner arm or in the armpit Tiny incisions of a few millimeters Tiny incisions of a few millimeters
Recovery 1 to 2 weeks for daily activities About 1 week About 1 week

If your skin is still elastic, liposuction or J-Plasma may be enough. Once the skin hangs, only an arm lift can remove it. Your surgeon will examine your skin during your consultation and recommend the right option.

→ Arm liposuction vs. brachioplasty: which is right for you

What if I also have loose skin on my thighs?

An arm lift can be combined with a thigh lift in the same surgery, with one anesthesia and one recovery.

→ Arm and thigh lift in Miami

 

CANDIDACY

 

Who is a good candidate for an arm lift?

A good candidate for an arm lift has loose or sagging skin on the upper arms, is in good general health, has a BMI of 30 or less and has kept a stable weight for at least 6 to 12 months. Candidates should also be non-smokers, or willing to stop smoking before and after surgery, and have realistic expectations about the scar and the results.

An arm lift is a skin-removal procedure, not a weight-loss method. If you are still losing weight, it is best to wait until you reach your goal, since further weight loss can create new loose skin. Your surgeon will confirm whether you are a candidate during your free consultation.

→ What makes you a good candidate for cosmetic surgery

 

What if my BMI is above 30?

A BMI above 30 increases the risk of complications such as poor wound healing and infection, and it usually means there is still fat to lose before the skin can be tightened effectively. Reaching a BMI of 30 or less before surgery gives you a safer procedure and a longer-lasting result. Our team can talk you through the options during your consultation.

 

Can I have an arm lift after bariatric surgery or major weight loss?

Yes. Patients who have lost a large amount of weight, whether through bariatric surgery or diet and exercise, are among the most common arm lift candidates, and they often benefit from an extended arm lift. The key is that your weight has been stable for several months at least 12 months after the Bariatric Surgery, and that you are in good nutritional health, since healing depends on it. The reason behind it is that your body needs a lot of time to readjust to the new weight and the new routine.

 

Can I have an arm lift if I smoke?

Smoking should be stopped at least a month before surgery and for a month afterward. Nicotine constricts blood vessels and reduces circulation, which slows the healing of the incision and increases the risk of complications.

 

Can an arm lift be combined with other procedures?

Yes. Common combinations include:

The right combination is decided at your consultation, based on your health and the total time required in the operating room.

→ Surgery combos at My Cosmetic Surgery

 

MEDICAL TEAM AND SAFETY

 

What are the risks of an arm lift?

Like any surgery, an arm lift carries risks. The most common include:

  • Infection at or around the incision
  • Bleeding during or after the procedure
  • Seroma, a buildup of fluid under the skin
  • Slow wound healing or small openings along the incision
  • Numbness or changes in sensation in the upper arm and forearm
  • Asymmetry between the two arms
  • Visible or widened scars

Less common but more serious risks include:

  • Nerve injury, which can cause lasting numbness along the inner arm
  • Blood clots (deep vein thrombosis)

At My Cosmetic Surgery, we follow all the Florida Health Safety Guidelines to keep these risks to a minimum.

 

PREPARATION AND RECOVERY

 

How do I prepare for surgery?

Stop smoking and nicotine products at least a month before and after surgery, since they slow healing. Aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs, vitamin E, fish oil and some herbal supplements may increase bleeding and should be paused only with your surgeon’s authorization. Arrange for a responsible adult to drive you home and help during the first few days, when lifting, reaching overhead and even dressing may be difficult. Choose loose, front-opening tops, have your compression garment ready, and set up a recovery space with pillows to keep your arms elevated.

→ Requirements before your surgery

→ Medications you should avoid before surgery

 

What does recovery look like week by week?

Days 1–3: Rest, with swelling and soreness managed by prescribed medication. Keep your arms elevated on pillows and take short, gentle walks to support circulation.

Week 1: Continue wearing the compression garment as directed. Avoid lifting anything heavy or raising your arms above your shoulders. Bandages are checked at your first follow-up visit.

Weeks 1–2: Return to desk work and light daily activity.

Weeks 4–6: Cleared for exercise, including arm workouts and lifting, once your surgeon confirms the incision has healed.

Months 3–6: Final results become visible as swelling fully resolves; the scar keeps softening and fading for up to a year.

 

How long do I need to wear the compression garment?

The garment minimizes swelling, supports the new contour of your arms and protects the incision while it heals.

At My Cosmetic Surgery, we suggest wearing the compression garment for at least 4 weeks for 24 hours a day, only taking it off to shower or to wash it.

→ Maximizing recovery: the benefits of post-surgical compression garments

 

When can I return to work and to exercise?

Most patients with desk jobs return within 1 to 2 weeks. Walking is encouraged from the first days, while arm exercises, lifting and any activity that stretches the arms are typically cleared between weeks 4 and 6, once your surgeon confirms healing is on track.

→ Post-surgery care for a successful recovery

 

RESULTS

 

When will I see my final results?

You will notice firmer, slimmer arms right after surgery, but swelling masks the full result at first. Most swelling resolves within a few weeks, and final results are typically visible between 3 and 6 months, while the scar keeps softening and fading for up to a year.

 

How long do the results last?

The skin removed during an arm lift does not come back, so results are long-lasting. However, natural aging continues, and significant weight gain or loss after surgery can stretch the skin again, which is why maintaining a stable weight is important to preserving your results.

 

Will an arm lift remove stretch marks?

Only the stretch marks on the skin that is removed. Stretch marks on the remaining skin may look tighter and less noticeable, but they will not disappear. Stretch mark camouflage can help with the ones that remain once you have healed.

→ Stretch mark camouflage in Miami

Will I lose strength or mobility in my arms?

No. An arm lift works on the skin and fat above the muscle, so it does not affect arm strength. Movement is limited for the first few weeks while the incision heals, and full range of motion returns once your surgeon clears you for normal activity.

 

COST AND LOGISTICS

 

How much does an arm lift cost in Miami, and do you offer financing?

Because the final price depends on the technique used and any combination with liposuction or other procedures, your exact quote is confirmed during your free consultation with our coordinators. Financing is available through Cherry Financing and Alphaeon.

→ Payment options at My Cosmetic Surgery

 

Is there a charge for the consultation?

No. Consultations at My Cosmetic Surgery are completely free.

 

If I’m traveling from another city, how many days should I stay in Miami?

At My Cosmetic Surgery, we recommend planning enough time in Miami for your initial recovery and at least one postoperative follow-up before flying home. Our team will confirm the exact timeline for your case at consultation, at least 1 week the patient should stay in Miami, for our surgeons to check that everything is okay.

→ Free remote evaluation for cosmetic surgery in Miami

 

Schedule your consultation

Book a free consultation with My Cosmetic Surgery to discuss your goals, review your medical history, and determine which arm lift technique is right for you. Call us at (305) 264-9636 to schedule your consultation.

 

 

#madeinmcs

  • All
  • Fabian Fontaine Figueredo, MD
  • Michel Bormey, MD

Why you'll love it

An arm lift (brachioplasty) removes loose, sagging skin and excess fat from the upper arms to create a firmer, more toned contour. It is a skin-removal procedure, not a weight-loss method, and it is most common after major weight loss or with aging, when exercise can no longer tighten the skin often called "bat wings." Techniques range from a mini arm lift with a hidden underarm incision to a standard or extended arm lift, and liposuction can be added in the same session.

Procedure Detail

 

Type Surgical: removal of excess skin and fat from the upper arms through an incision on the inner arm or underarm; can be combined with liposuction.
Anesthesia Local and General. 
Duration Around 1 to 3 hours, depending on the technique and the amount of skin removed.
Hospital stay Outpatient: same-day discharge.
Areas treated Upper arms, from the armpit to the elbow; the extended technique also treats the side of the chest.
Return to work Around 1 to 2 weeks for desk jobs and 2 to 3 weeks for work that required moving or lifting.
Final results Between 3 and 6 months, once swelling resolves; scars keep fading for up to a year.
Price The prices may change on your condition; final quote confirmed at consultation based on the technique used and any combined procedures.
Financing Available through Cherry Financing and Alphaeon.
Consultation Free

 

THE PROCEDURE

 

What is an arm lift and how is it performed?

An arm lift, or brachioplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the upper arms and tightens the remaining tissue for a firmer, smoother contour. It is performed under general anesthesia as an outpatient procedure and generally takes 1 to 3 hours, depending on the technique and how much skin is removed. Your surgeon customizes the technique and incision placement to your anatomy and goals during your free consultation.

→ General anesthesia vs. local anesthesia: which is the best option?

What problems does an arm lift correct?

An arm lift corrects loose, hanging skin on the back and underside of the upper arms, often called “bat wings,” along with the fat that accumulates in the same area. This laxity usually comes from major weight loss, aging, pregnancy or genetics, and it does not respond to diet, exercise or toning, because stretched skin cannot shrink back on its own. The result is arms that look firmer in sleeveless clothing and fit better in fitted sleeves.

→ Arm lift: restore the firmness and shape of your arms

Will I have scars, and where will they be?

Yes. Because an arm lift removes skin, it leaves a longer scar than liposuction. With a standard arm lift, the scar runs along the inner or back of the upper arm, from the armpit toward the elbow, where it is least visible when your arms are at your sides. With a mini arm lift, the scar is hidden in the armpit. Scars start pink or red and fade significantly over the following 6 to 12 months, but leave a permanent line.

 

TECHNIQUES AND ALTERNATIVES

 

What arm lift techniques exist, and which do we offer?

The technique determines the length and placement of the scar and how much skin can be removed. Here is how the options compare:

 

Technique What it involves Do we offer it? Best suited for
Mini arm lift A short incision hidden in the armpit; skin is tightened from the top of the arm. Yes Mild loose skin close to the underarm.
Standard arm lift An incision along the inner or back of the upper arm, from the armpit toward the elbow. Yes Moderate to significant loose skin along the upper arm.
Extended arm lift The incision continues from the arm along the side of the chest. Yes Loose skin on the arm and chest wall, common after major weight loss.
Arm lift with liposuction Liposuction removes stubborn fat before the excess skin is removed. Yes Patients with both loose skin and localized fat in the arms.

→ Brachioplasty: arm lift for firm, youthful arms

Arm lift, arm liposuction or J-Plasma: which one do I need?

The right procedure depends on whether your main concern is fat, loose skin, or both:

 

Arm lift Arm liposuction J-Plasma
Removes Excess skin and fat Fat only Fat, with skin tightening
Best for Skin that hangs or folds Good skin elasticity with localized fat Mild skin laxity with localized fat
Scar Along the inner arm or in the armpit Tiny incisions of a few millimeters Tiny incisions of a few millimeters
Recovery 1 to 2 weeks for daily activities About 1 week About 1 week

If your skin is still elastic, liposuction or J-Plasma may be enough. Once the skin hangs, only an arm lift can remove it. Your surgeon will examine your skin during your consultation and recommend the right option.

→ Arm liposuction vs. brachioplasty: which is right for you

What if I also have loose skin on my thighs?

An arm lift can be combined with a thigh lift in the same surgery, with one anesthesia and one recovery.

→ Arm and thigh lift in Miami

 

CANDIDACY

 

Who is a good candidate for an arm lift?

A good candidate for an arm lift has loose or sagging skin on the upper arms, is in good general health, has a BMI of 30 or less and has kept a stable weight for at least 6 to 12 months. Candidates should also be non-smokers, or willing to stop smoking before and after surgery, and have realistic expectations about the scar and the results.

An arm lift is a skin-removal procedure, not a weight-loss method. If you are still losing weight, it is best to wait until you reach your goal, since further weight loss can create new loose skin. Your surgeon will confirm whether you are a candidate during your free consultation.

→ What makes you a good candidate for cosmetic surgery

 

What if my BMI is above 30?

A BMI above 30 increases the risk of complications such as poor wound healing and infection, and it usually means there is still fat to lose before the skin can be tightened effectively. Reaching a BMI of 30 or less before surgery gives you a safer procedure and a longer-lasting result. Our team can talk you through the options during your consultation.

 

Can I have an arm lift after bariatric surgery or major weight loss?

Yes. Patients who have lost a large amount of weight, whether through bariatric surgery or diet and exercise, are among the most common arm lift candidates, and they often benefit from an extended arm lift. The key is that your weight has been stable for several months at least 12 months after the Bariatric Surgery, and that you are in good nutritional health, since healing depends on it. The reason behind it is that your body needs a lot of time to readjust to the new weight and the new routine.

 

Can I have an arm lift if I smoke?

Smoking should be stopped at least a month before surgery and for a month afterward. Nicotine constricts blood vessels and reduces circulation, which slows the healing of the incision and increases the risk of complications.

 

Can an arm lift be combined with other procedures?

Yes. Common combinations include:

The right combination is decided at your consultation, based on your health and the total time required in the operating room.

→ Surgery combos at My Cosmetic Surgery

 

MEDICAL TEAM AND SAFETY

 

What are the risks of an arm lift?

Like any surgery, an arm lift carries risks. The most common include:

  • Infection at or around the incision
  • Bleeding during or after the procedure
  • Seroma, a buildup of fluid under the skin
  • Slow wound healing or small openings along the incision
  • Numbness or changes in sensation in the upper arm and forearm
  • Asymmetry between the two arms
  • Visible or widened scars

Less common but more serious risks include:

  • Nerve injury, which can cause lasting numbness along the inner arm
  • Blood clots (deep vein thrombosis)

At My Cosmetic Surgery, we follow all the Florida Health Safety Guidelines to keep these risks to a minimum.

 

PREPARATION AND RECOVERY

 

How do I prepare for surgery?

Stop smoking and nicotine products at least a month before and after surgery, since they slow healing. Aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs, vitamin E, fish oil and some herbal supplements may increase bleeding and should be paused only with your surgeon’s authorization. Arrange for a responsible adult to drive you home and help during the first few days, when lifting, reaching overhead and even dressing may be difficult. Choose loose, front-opening tops, have your compression garment ready, and set up a recovery space with pillows to keep your arms elevated.

→ Requirements before your surgery

→ Medications you should avoid before surgery

 

What does recovery look like week by week?

Days 1–3: Rest, with swelling and soreness managed by prescribed medication. Keep your arms elevated on pillows and take short, gentle walks to support circulation.

Week 1: Continue wearing the compression garment as directed. Avoid lifting anything heavy or raising your arms above your shoulders. Bandages are checked at your first follow-up visit.

Weeks 1–2: Return to desk work and light daily activity.

Weeks 4–6: Cleared for exercise, including arm workouts and lifting, once your surgeon confirms the incision has healed.

Months 3–6: Final results become visible as swelling fully resolves; the scar keeps softening and fading for up to a year.

 

How long do I need to wear the compression garment?

The garment minimizes swelling, supports the new contour of your arms and protects the incision while it heals.

At My Cosmetic Surgery, we suggest wearing the compression garment for at least 4 weeks for 24 hours a day, only taking it off to shower or to wash it.

→ Maximizing recovery: the benefits of post-surgical compression garments

 

When can I return to work and to exercise?

Most patients with desk jobs return within 1 to 2 weeks. Walking is encouraged from the first days, while arm exercises, lifting and any activity that stretches the arms are typically cleared between weeks 4 and 6, once your surgeon confirms healing is on track.

→ Post-surgery care for a successful recovery

 

RESULTS

 

When will I see my final results?

You will notice firmer, slimmer arms right after surgery, but swelling masks the full result at first. Most swelling resolves within a few weeks, and final results are typically visible between 3 and 6 months, while the scar keeps softening and fading for up to a year.

 

How long do the results last?

The skin removed during an arm lift does not come back, so results are long-lasting. However, natural aging continues, and significant weight gain or loss after surgery can stretch the skin again, which is why maintaining a stable weight is important to preserving your results.

 

Will an arm lift remove stretch marks?

Only the stretch marks on the skin that is removed. Stretch marks on the remaining skin may look tighter and less noticeable, but they will not disappear. Stretch mark camouflage can help with the ones that remain once you have healed.

→ Stretch mark camouflage in Miami

Will I lose strength or mobility in my arms?

No. An arm lift works on the skin and fat above the muscle, so it does not affect arm strength. Movement is limited for the first few weeks while the incision heals, and full range of motion returns once your surgeon clears you for normal activity.

 

COST AND LOGISTICS

 

How much does an arm lift cost in Miami, and do you offer financing?

Because the final price depends on the technique used and any combination with liposuction or other procedures, your exact quote is confirmed during your free consultation with our coordinators. Financing is available through Cherry Financing and Alphaeon.

→ Payment options at My Cosmetic Surgery

 

Is there a charge for the consultation?

No. Consultations at My Cosmetic Surgery are completely free.

 

If I’m traveling from another city, how many days should I stay in Miami?

At My Cosmetic Surgery, we recommend planning enough time in Miami for your initial recovery and at least one postoperative follow-up before flying home. Our team will confirm the exact timeline for your case at consultation, at least 1 week the patient should stay in Miami, for our surgeons to check that everything is okay.

→ Free remote evaluation for cosmetic surgery in Miami

 

Schedule your consultation

Book a free consultation with My Cosmetic Surgery to discuss your goals, review your medical history, and determine which arm lift technique is right for you. Call us at (305) 264-9636 to schedule your consultation.

 

 

No. An arm lift is a cosmetic, elective procedure and is generally not covered by insurance. We offer financing through Cherry Financing and Alphaeon to spread the cost over time.
Most patients describe the first few days as tightness and soreness rather than sharp pain, and it is managed with prescribed medication. Discomfort usually eases noticeably after the first week.
Exercise strengthens the triceps and can improve arm tone, but it cannot remove skin that has already stretched. If the skin hangs when you hold your arms out, an arm lift is the only way to remove it.
Yes. The procedure is the same for men and women. Men who have lost a large amount of weight are common arm lift candidates, and the incision is planned so the scar stays as discreet as possible.
It might depend on the case, Some surgeons place small drains to prevent fluid buildup, which are usually removed at a follow-up visit within the first week or two. Or some other case

Arm Lift | Our Surgeons

Professional headshot of Dr. Fabian Fontaine Figueredo, MD, at My Cosmetic Surgery in Miami.

Fabian Fontaine Figueredo, MD

Board Certified Cosmetic Surgeon

Professional headshot of Dr. Michel Bormey, MD, at My Cosmetic Surgery in Miami.

Michel Bormey, MD

Board Certified Cosmetic Surgeon

Arm Lift | #madeinmcs

  • All
  • Fabian Fontaine Figueredo, MD
  • Michel Bormey, MD

#madeinmcs Journey

Arm Lift | Checklist

Arm Lift | FAQS

No. An arm lift is a cosmetic, elective procedure and is generally not covered by insurance. We offer financing through Cherry Financing and Alphaeon to spread the cost over time.
Most patients describe the first few days as tightness and soreness rather than sharp pain, and it is managed with prescribed medication. Discomfort usually eases noticeably after the first week.
Exercise strengthens the triceps and can improve arm tone, but it cannot remove skin that has already stretched. If the skin hangs when you hold your arms out, an arm lift is the only way to remove it.
Yes. The procedure is the same for men and women. Men who have lost a large amount of weight are common arm lift candidates, and the incision is planned so the scar stays as discreet as possible.
It might depend on the case, Some surgeons place small drains to prevent fluid buildup, which are usually removed at a follow-up visit within the first week or two. Or some other case

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A confident model posing and showcasing her cosmetic surgery results at My Cosmetic Surgery in Miami.

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