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Arm Lift (Brachioplasty)

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Arm Lift (Brachioplasty)

Arm Lift (Brachioplasty)

An arm lift or brachioplasty is a surgical procedure during which excess skin and fat are removed from the upper arms, leaving a toned, contoured appearance. It’s normal for skin to sag as a result of weight loss or ageing, but arm lift surgery at the Harley Clinic can restore confidence in your body.

What is an Arm Lift / Brachioplasty?

Arm lift brachioplasty, also known as upper arm lift or arm reduction, addresses loose or sagging skin on the upper arms, which is often referred to colloquially as ‘bingo wings.’ For men and women who have recently lost weight, or are experiencing an irreversible loss of elasticity in the skin that won’t respond to exercise or diet, arm lift brachioplasty is the ideal procedure.

 

At the Harley Clinic, our surgeons use advanced techniques to remove the excess skin and fat, sometimes combining liposuction for enhanced contouring. During the procedure, the underlying tissue is tightened, resulting in smoother, shapelier arms with minimal scarring. The ideal candidate should be within 10% of their ideal weight, healthy, and looking for lasting results. Arm lift brachioplasty can also complement other procedures we offer, such as a tummy tuck, creating a full body transformation. 


Book a consultation to explore how arm lift brachioplasty can refine your arms.

Arm Lift: Quick Overview

  • Surgery Time: 2 hours
  • Anaesthetic: General
  • Hospital Stay: Day
  • Dressing and Garments: Dressings for 2 weeks, 6 weeks for garments
  • Time Off Work: 1-2 weeks
  • Exercise: 6 Weeks
  • Mobile: 1 day
  • Washing: Shower after 1 week
  • Sleeping Position: Elevated on back for up to 2 weeks
  • Full Recovery: 6 weeks

Why Choose Harley Clinic for Arm Lift Brachioplasty?

The Harley Clinic on Harley Street is renowned for delivering exceptional results in a number of different body treatments, including arm lift brachioplasty. Our surgeons are board-certified and skilled in advanced body contouring, using state-of-the-art techniques to keep scarring at a minimum while getting our patients desired outcomes. 

We offer personalised care, beginning with detailed consultations and culminating in tailored recovery plans, giving our patients confidence throughout the process. Our expertise stretches across a number of related procedures, including mummy makeover and abdominal etching, in which we have created lasting results for our patients. The world-class facilities and rigorous safety protocols we have at the Harley Clinic set us apart as a trusted choice.


Learn more about our clinic and why patients choose us for transformative arm lift surgery.

What Happens During Arm Lift Brachioplasty Surgery?

The arm lift brachioplasty procedure, which typically lasts around 2 hours, is carefully executed: 

  1. During the consultation, you can discuss your goals with the surgeon, who will map out the incision sites.
  2. Under general anaesthetic, the incisions are made (standard, limited-incision, or extended) between the elbow and armpit.
  3. The surgeon will remove the excess skin and fat, sometimes using VASER liposuction for precision. 
  4. The skin is then tightened, smoothed, and closed with sutures. Sometimes, drains are used to prevent fluid buildup. 

After the procedure, sterile dressings and a compression garment are used to support healing.

Potential Arm Lift Brachioplasty Risks and Complications

Our experienced surgeons make sure that the arm lift brachioplasty procedure is safe and comfortable for our patients. However, some potential risks include:

  • Infection
  • Bleeding
  • Scarring
  • Seroma
  • Nerve injury

With the right care post-surgery, most issues should resolve smoothly, while serious complications are exceedingly rare. Our team provides close monitoring going forward, ensuring you recover safely. 

 

Arm Lift Brachioplasty Recovery Results & Aftercare

After your arm lift brachioplasty procedure, you can expect mild swelling and soreness for a few days, managed with a compression garment for 6 weeks. Take 1-2 weeks off work and avoid exercise for 6 weeks. Sleep elevated on your back for 2 weeks, and you can start showering again after 1 week. Light activities should be resumed gradually.

First results will appear within 6 weeks, final results by 3-6 months as the scars fade. To get the best out of your surgery, maintain a stable weight and healthy diet during recovery, avoiding smoking.  Our aftercare includes scar management, activity guidelines, and detailed follow-ups to optimise your arm lift surgery results.

 

Arm Lift Patient Results

Arm Lift / Brachioplasty FAQs

How long does arm lift brachioplasty recovery take?

Recovery from brachioplasty surgery typically takes 6 weeks, with most patients able to return to work by 2 weeks at the latest. Healing is supported by rest, a healthy lifestyle, and a compression garment.

Who is a good candidate for arm lift brachioplasty?

Ideal candidates are healthy, within 10% of their ideal weight, and have excess arm skin from weight loss or ageing. Those with poor skin elasticity benefit most from the procedure.

Are arm lift brachioplasty results permanent?

Results will be long-lasting provided the patient maintains a stable weight and a healthy lifestyle. Ageing may affect skin elasticity over time.

How to Prepare for an Arm Lift?

You need to prepare for any type of body contouring surgeries, including an arm lift. The best way to prepare for an arm lift is to be as healthy as possible. You should stop smoking several weeks before the procedure. In the week running up to your surgery, you should avoid waxing or shaving the area that will be cut. 

What are the Scars Like Following an Arm Lift?

Scars extend from the armpit to the elbow. Typically, scars are placed in areas that aren’t easily visible to other people. Because of the length of the scars, people who benefit most from this surgery are those who have extremely loose and sagging skin. 

When Do You See the Final Results of an Arm Lift?

After about 6 weeks, the swelling will start to subside. Over the next few months, you will start to see the final results of your arm lift. 

Can You Combine an Arm Lift with Other Surgeries?

It’s common to combine cosmetic procedures so that patients have one recovery period. You can combine an arm lift with surgeries such as:

Is an Arm Lift Painful?

It’s common to experience some pain and discomfort following your surgery. This pain only lasts for a few days and is manageable with over-the-counter painkillers. 

Is there an Alternative to an Arm Lift?

Arm liposuction is an alternative to an arm lift. Patients with excess fat but relatively tight skin would likely benefit from arm liposuction over an arm lift. 

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