An arm lift, also called brachioplasty, removes loose upper arm skin and reshapes the arm contour. Arm lift surgery follows a planned sequence: anesthesia, incisions, skin removal, possible fat removal, contouring, closure, and early recovery monitoring. Choosing an experienced surgical team is an important part of that process.
At Elite Plastic Surgery in Grand Rapids, Michigan, board-certified plastic surgeons Shannon Armstrong, M.D., William Cullen, M.D., F.A.C.S., Matthew Martin, M.D., and Matthew Fahrenkopf, M.D. perform arm lift procedures with experience in body contouring surgery.
Our goal is to help you understand each step of the surgery before you decide whether the procedure is right for you.
The Arm Lift Surgery Process, Step by Step
Knowing what happens during arm lift surgery can help you feel more prepared before surgery day. Here is a closer look at what typically takes place during each stage of the procedure.
Step 1: Anesthesia Keeps You Comfortable
Your arm lift begins with anesthesia. Depending on your treatment plan, your surgeon may recommend local anesthesia or general anesthesia. You should not feel pain during the procedure.
Step 2: Your Surgeon Makes the Arm Lift Incisions
Your surgeon makes the planned incisions based on the amount and location of loose skin. Common incision areas include the inside or back of the arm. In some cases, the incision may extend from the underarm to just above the elbow.
Step 3: Loose Upper Arm Skin and Extra Fat Are Removed
The loose skin that causes sagging along the upper arms will be removed. When needed, extra fat may also be removed directly or with liposuction during the same procedure. This part of surgery is based on your anatomy, treatment goals, and the amount of excess tissue present.
Step 4: The Arm Contour Is Reshaped and the Incisions Are Closed
Your surgeon smooths the remaining skin over the new arm shape, then closes the incisions with absorbable sutures or stitches. Traditional stitches may need to be removed within one to two weeks after surgery.
Your arms may then be wrapped or placed in compression garments to support the surgical area.
Step 5: You Wake Up After Arm Lift Surgery
As anesthesia wears off, the care team monitors you and makes sure you can walk safely before discharge. Some swelling, bruising, and discomfort can be expected during early recovery, and you will receive post-operative instructions covering aftercare, follow-up appointments, and your expected healing timeline before leaving. You will also need someone to drive you home after surgery.
Schedule an Arm Lift Consultation in Grand Rapids, MI
A consultation with our team gives you the opportunity to discuss your concerns, learn what the procedure may involve, and understand what results you can expect.
To schedule an arm lift consultation in Grand Rapids, MI, call Elite Plastic Surgery at 616-459-1907.
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