Arm Lift Surgery

A brachioplasty, upper arm reduction or arm lift is another common procedure performed by cosmetic surgeons at University of Florida Health. An arm lift reduces excess skin and fat and reshapes the upper arm to provide better contours and a renewed sense of confidence.

Many women develop loose, sagging skin in their upper arms from a combination of weight loss, aging and heredity. While exercise can provide good muscle tone, it cannot address skin that has lost its elasticity or localized fat deposits in the upper arm region.

In the end, only an arm lift can address this problem so read on to learn more about how a brachioplasty at our UF Health cosmetic surgery practice can give you a more toned and proportionate appearance.

Before and After Photos

How do I know if an arm lift is right for me?

Women with sagging, drooping upper arms often experience anxiety with their appearance. Exercising and good dieting seem to help with muscle firmness and tone but doesn’t adequately address loose skin.

Speaking strictly in physical terms, an arm lift at UF Health is safe if you are in good health and have realistic expectations. The first rule of any cosmetic procedure however – do it because you want it, not to satisfy someone else’s desire.

It’s safe for an adult of any age to go forward with an arm lift procedure, provided the following conditions are true:

  • Weight is relatively stable
  • Patient is not significantly overweight
  • Patient does not have any medical condition that can hinder recovery
  • Patient is a non-smoker

A brachioplasty is not a substitute for good dieting and exercise, which must be maintained to retain the benefits of undergoing the procedure.

How do I prepare for an arm lift?

If you’re interested in learning more about a brachioplasty, surgeons will first sit down with you and fully discuss the procedure and what your goals are.

If you decide to move forward, surgeons may suggest you take certain medications or adjust ones you’re currently on prior to the procedure. You will need to avoid Aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs and herbal supplements prior to and immediately after your brachioplasty since they increase the risk of bleeding. Stop smoking well before you intend to undergo an arm lift.

Florida cosmetic surgeons at the University of Florida will fully explain the risks associated with an arm lift and require you to sign a consent form attesting that you fully understand the procedure and any risks.

On the day of your arm lift, be sure someone can drive you home since it’s an outpatient procedure. We also recommend you ask a friend or relative to stay the night with you to help monitor your recovery.

Contact and discuss your situation with a Florida arm lift surgeon at UF and be sure you have all the bases covered before undergoing any procedure.

After surgery, what is the standard recovery time and procedure?

After your arm lift procedure is complete, surgeons will apply dressings and bandages around the incisions and perhaps wrap your arm in a compression garment to reduce swelling. A temporary tube may be inserted to drain away excess blood and fluids.

You will need to avoid strenuous activity, especially bending and lifting, for about three to four weeks after your surgery until healing is complete.

While everyone is unique, full recovery from an arm lift generally lasts three to four weeks. You should be able to return to work within a week and light exercise is generally ok after two weeks. Take all medications prescribed by your Florida arm lift surgeon.

Above all – follow all directions from your surgeon to avoid any complications during recovery

These results should last provided you maintain a healthy diet and exercise routine.

Call 352.265.8402 or contact us today to schedule a consultation.

Learn about more body contouring procedures.