Brachioplasty (Arm Lift)

Is It Right for You?

An arm lift can sculpt a new contour of the arm, making many patients feel more confident and comfortable in their clothing. One drawback, however, is that the surgery often replaces one cosmetic problem (saggy arms) with another (scars). Scars may extend from the armpit to the elbow, along the inside of the arm. While brachioplasty is considered permanent, the effects of weight change, diet, exercise, and age may cause skin to sag again in the future.

Brachioplasty is not recommended for individuals who have undergone mastectomy, since lymph nodes, which are responsible for the drainage of fluid from the arm, may already be damaged. Patients who have repeated infections of the armpit or who sweat excessively may also not be good candidates.

The risks associated with brachioplasty include (but are not limited to): a reaction to anesthesia; excessive bleeding; infection; visible scarring; possible asymmetry (unevenness); and possible nerve damage. Discuss these and others risks with your doctor.

It's also important to note that an arm lift does not improve muscle tone. Your doctor can advise you about exercises to tone and firm muscles before and after the procedure. If your problem is heavy arms due to excess fat, diet and/or liposuction may be a better option.