What is an Arm Lift Brachioplasty?

Updated July 2025

Medically reviewed by Dr. Anh Tuan Truong

Triple Board-Certified Cosmetic Surgeon

Weight fluctuations, heredity, and aging can all impact the arms. Loose tissue that hangs from the arms can cause you to feel self-conscious or embarrassed, or prevent you from wearing certain types of clothing or participating in activities. When diet and exercise can’t resolve your cosmetic concerns, an arm lift brachioplasty at Chicago Breast & Body Aesthetics can bring tone and contour back to your arms.

Here we answer common questions you might have to determine if an arm lift brachioplasty procedure is right for you.

If the underside of your arms are saggy or have an excess of skin and fat, you’re a likely candidate for an arm lift brachioplasty. An arm lift removes excess skin, eliminates pockets of localized fat, and reshapes the arms’ contours for a smoother, more toned appearance, often with the help of liposuction for fine-tuning. Ideal arm lift candidates are non-smokers who are in good health and have realistic expectations of the procedure.

1893195 1mo Brachioplasty Arm Lift by Dr. Kevin Lin Chicago Breast and Body
1893195 1mo Brachioplasty Arm Lift by Dr. Kevin Lin Chicago Breast and Body

An arm lift brachioplasty takes between 1 to 2 hours, depending upon how extensive the surgery is. Each procedure is custom-tailored based on your individual case. For instance, if you have experienced major weight loss, you may require a more in-depth procedure. If you’re combining your arm lift brachioplasty with other body contouring procedures such as arm liposuction, and Renuvion skin tightening, the total time will be several hours. An arm lift is done as an outpatient basis, which means you can go home after your procedure.

2212242 arm lift before after photo by dr kevin lin chicago breast and body
2212242 arm lift before after photo by dr kevin lin chicago breast and body

Recovery is proportionate to how extensive the surgery is. During your recovery, it’s normal to experience some discomfort along with some swelling and bruising. The majority of swelling and bruising should resolve in 2 weeks. You’ll wear a compressive dressing for about a week following the surgery, to help reduce swelling. Most people are able to return to work within several days following an arm lift brachioplasty and can resume all normal activities, including heavy lifting and vigorous arm movement, at 6 weeks. Any pain can typically be managed with over-the-counter medication or an ice pack.

1996527 6mo Brachioplasty Arm Lift by Dr. Kevin Lin Chicago
1996527 6mo Brachioplasty Arm Lift by Dr. Kevin Lin Chicago

As with any surgery, an arm lift brachioplasty will leave some amount of scarring. The size of the incision will depend upon the amount of skin laxity you have, however our surgeons take great care to make the incision as subtle as possible. With proper scar management, the incision can fade nicely over time. Many people find that the benefits of having attractive, re-contoured arms far outweigh the scar, which can often be concealed by clothing.

You’ll notice an immediate improvement in the contours of your arms, with the final results becoming apparent within 2 to 3 months once all of the swelling has subsided. By this time, your arms will appear significantly slimmer and more toned. Maintaining a stable weight through a healthy lifestyle can help you enjoy long-lasting results. Your scar should continue to heal for the first year following your arm lift brachioplasty.”

Ready to take the next step?

Schedule your virtual or in-person consultation here or call or text us at (312) 846-1529 to book your appointment today.

Photo of Anh-Tuan Truong, MD, FACS

Anh-Tuan Truong, MD, FACS

Medically reviewed by Dr. Anh-Tuan Truong, MD, FACS – Triple Board-Certified Cosmetic Surgeon certified by the American Board of Surgery, the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, and the American Board of Facial Cosmetic Surgery. With over two decades of experience, Dr. Truong specializes in advanced breast, body, and facial procedures, is a member of the elite Dr. Miami Squad, and serves as an Officer & Board Trustee for the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery.