Brachioplasty – Arm Lift Surgery

Brachioplasty is a cosmetic surgery designed to remove excess skin and fat from the upper arms. It helps to tighten and smooth the arms, creating a more toned and youthful appearance, especially for those who have experienced significant weight loss or aging.

Ideal candidates for brachioplasty are people with loose, sagging skin on their upper arms, typically due to weight loss, aging, or genetics.

You should be in good overall health, have stable weight, and have realistic expectations about the procedure’s outcomes.

During the surgery, your surgeon makes an incision along the inner or back side of the upper arm. Excess skin and fat are removed, and the remaining skin is tightened. The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia, and it usually takes 2 to 3 hours, depending on the complexity.

Image source: Mayo Clinic

Recovery time varies, but most people can return to light activities after 2 weeks. Full recovery, including resumption of strenuous exercise, may take 6 to 8 weeks. Swelling and bruising are common and should subside over time. 

The cost of a brachioplasty (arm lift) with the plastic surgeon at Cutis Clinic Brisbane typically ranges from AUD $4,000 to $6,000. However, this does not include additional expenses such as anesthesia fees, hospital or surgical facility charges, and post-operative care (such as follow-up appointments or compression garments).

Medicare may cover the hospital stay for a brachioplasty if you have experienced significant weight loss and require the surgery to remove excess skin that is causing medical issues (such as rashes, infections, or skin irritation).

However, Medicare typically does not cover the cost of the surgical procedure itself, as it is considered cosmetic. It’s important to discuss your situation with your healthcare provider to determine eligibility for any coverage.

Our plastic surgeon, Dr. Bangash, completed his specialist training in plastic surgery in the United Kingdom and has been practicing in Australia since 2011.

Choosing a plastic surgeon for brachioplasty ensures specialized expertise in aesthetic and reconstructive surgery. They are skilled in body contouring, minimizing scarring, and achieving natural-looking results.

Dr. Bangash brings a deep commitment to high-quality, patient-centred care, with a focus on safety, informed consent, and optimal aesthetic outcomes.

Yes, there will be scars, typically located along the inside of the arm. While the scars may be noticeable initially, they will fade over time and become less prominent. The extent of scarring depends on the amount of tissue removed and the type of incision made.

Absolutely! Many patients opt to combine brachioplasty with other body contouring procedures such as abdominoplasty, liposuction, or breast surgery. Combining procedures can offer a more comprehensive transformation, saving time and cost in the long run.

 The results of brachioplasty are long-lasting, provided you maintain a stable weight. While aging will still occur, the excess skin and fat removed during surgery typically do not return, giving you a more youthful arm contour for years.

Like any surgery, brachioplasty comes with risks, including infection, scarring, asymmetry, changes in sensation, and blood clots. However, these risks are rare, and your surgeon will take steps to minimize them. It’s important to follow aftercare instructions carefully for the best outcomes.

Yes! Brachioplasty is a common procedure for patients who have undergone weight loss surgery and are left with excess skin on their arms. 

Here’s the updated table comparing brachioplasty and fat freezing (CoolSculpting), now including the treatment needed:

You can resume light physical activities, such as walking, after about 2 to 3 weeks. However, it’s crucial to avoid strenuous exercise or lifting heavy weights for at least 6 to 8 weeks to ensure proper healing and avoid complications. You will also have to wear a compression garment for 4 weeks.

Some patients may need drains to help remove excess fluid that accumulates after surgery. These drains are typically temporary and are removed within a few days. Your surgeon will advise you on the necessary post-surgical care.