What You Should Know About the Arm Lift

The arms can be one of the most difficult areas to tone, especially if you have concerns like sagging skin or stubborn fat. Having defined upper arms can open up new wardrobe possibilities and help you feel more confident in your favorite tank tops. The arm lift is a way to lift and tighten the arms if diet and exercise aren’t producing the results you want. Here’s what to know about the arm lift and how our board-certified plastic surgeons, Drs. Kevin Sadati and Whitney Florin, can help.

What are the benefits of the arm lift?

One of the most common concerns in the upper arms is “bat wings,” or wings of fat and skin that hang down when you lift your arms. This can happen no matter your weight, and it can add inches to your arms (making it extra difficult to find clothing that fits). In some cases, no amount of muscle toning can get rid of this skin and fat, especially after significant weight loss.

The arm lift is the most permanent and transformative solution to this. An arm lift can get rid of excess skin and fat, contouring the upper arms and improving their look when lifted or at rest.

Who is a good candidate for the arm lift?

In order to be considered a good candidate for the arm lift, you should be at an overall healthy and stable weight. Additionally, you should have no medical conditions that could add risk to your procedure. Finally, you should have realistic expectations for what results an arm lift can achieve – and have healthy habits in place so you can maintain them.

What happens during arm lift surgery?

An arm lift typically involves general anesthesia, but Dr. Sadati or Dr. Florin will discuss your unique surgical approach during a consultation. To begin, an incision is made either underneath the bicep or along the back side of the arm. From there, your plastic surgeon can contour the area using liposuction and remove any excess skin. Then, the incisions are closed, and your arms will be fitted with compression sleeves for recovery.

What is arm lift recovery like?

Arm lift recovery typically requires 1-2 weeks of dedicated downtime. If you work a desk job or otherwise inactive job, you can return to work within 2-3 weeks. If your job is more labor-intensive, it may be longer. You’ll be given detailed aftercare instructions to follow, including incision care and directions for medications. It’s important to wear your compression garments as much as possible for the first 6-8 weeks in order to prevent fluid buildup and swelling. Make sure to avoid strenuous activity (including lifting your arms or heavy objects) during this time.

After 2-3 months, you should begin to see final results with sleeker, more toned arms. However, it can take up to a year for all swelling to fade and for the scars to achieve their final appearance. With a healthy and active lifestyle, you can enjoy your results for many years to come.

Schedule a Consultation

To learn more about your arm lift options, contact the Gallery of Cosmetic Surgery by calling our Orange County office or filling out our online contact form.