Arm lift or brachioplasty surgery removes the excess fat and skin from the underside of the upper arm. The procedure tightens and smoothes the underlying supportive tissue that defines the shape of the upper arm, whilst reducing localised pockets of fat. As we age, the skin of the upper arm area starts to lose elasticity. Even though exercise can strengthen muscles, it will not improve the skin’s elasticity. An arm lift procedure is capable of addressing these concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it right for me?
Arm lift or brachioplasty surgery is a very personal decision and you should have realistic goals and expectations before undergoing surgery. But if you are unhappy with the appearance of your upper arms because of excess skin and you are considering surgery, Dr Vlad Milovic—our extensively trained plastic surgeon—will examine your arms during your initial consultation. He will then evaluate how an arm lift procedure may be able to achieve an improvement. If you are in good health and you are a non-smoker (or you are prepared to give up smoking for at least 6 weeks before and after surgery) you may be suitable for arm lift surgery.
Arm lifts are not intended strictly for the removal of excess fat. Liposuction alone can remove excess fat deposits where skin has good elasticity and is able to naturally conform to new body contours. In cases where skin elasticity is poor, a combination of liposuction and arm lift techniques may be recommended.
Will I need anaesthesia?
Arm lift surgery is generally performed under general anaesthesia and may require a hospital stay.
Modern anaesthesia is safe and effective, but does have some risks. Ask Dr Milovic and your Anaesthetist for more information. You can be assured that Dr Milovic will engage the services of a qualified Anaesthetist who is a Fellow of the Royal Australian and NZ College of Anaesthetists (ANZCA) to perform your sedation and/or general anaesthesia.
Dr Milovic and/or your anaesthetist will ask you about all the medications you are taking or have taken, and any allergies you may have. Please make sure you have an up-to-date list before the surgery.
Will I have scarring?
Scars are an inevitable part of any surgery and there can be no guarantee for a perfect outcome. After surgery, the scars are typically reddish in colour, but these will fade in time to a light pink. After one or two years, the scars should become less noticeable. In our experience, most of our patients believe that the aesthetic results of the procedure are well worth the resulting scars.
If scarring is a concern for you after surgery, Dr Milovic will provide you with a scar treatment plan to expedite the healing of your scars. There are several treatment options, including silicone gel and laser.
What are the risks with Arm Lift surgery?
As with all surgery there are risks and potential complications. Dr Milovic will discuss these with you prior to any surgery taking place.
Where will the surgery take place?
Dr Milovic will only perform your Arm Lift surgery in accredited operating facilities.
What is the recovery period after Arm Lift surgery?
Recovery time will vary from patient to patient and will also depend on the extent of the surgery. But expect at least one week off work to allow for complete rest and another two to three weeks for all swelling and bruising to disappear. Elastic bandages or a compression garment is recommended for several weeks but light exercise such as walking may be resumed within two to three days. Strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided for at least one month. You will be given post-surgery instructions to follow and if you have any questions, please speak to Dr Milovic and/or his Practice Nurse.