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Brachioplasty Surgery (Arm Lift)

Arm lift surgery, medically known as Brachioplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to address loose, sagging skin and excess fat in the upper arms. By removing redundant tissue and tightening the underlying support structures, this procedure creates a more toned, defined, and youthful arm contour.

For many patients, significant weight loss or the natural effects of ageing can lead to "bat wings" or skin laxity that does not respond to diet and exercise. Brachioplasty offers a transformative solution, helping patients regain confidence in their appearance and feel more comfortable in fitted clothing or sleeveless attire.

What is Brachioplasty Surgery?

Brachioplasty is a body contouring procedure that specifically targets the area between the armpit and the elbow. The primary goal is to reduce the circumference of the upper arm by removing drooping skin and stubborn fat deposits that can create a heavy or aged appearance.

The surgery involves an incision typically placed along the inside or back of the arm, where it is most discreet. Through this access point, your surgeon carefully removes excess tissue and repositions the remaining skin to achieve a smoother, firmer result. Depending on the patient's needs, liposuction may also be used in conjunction with the excision to further refine the arm's shape.

At Plastic Surgery Queensland, our surgeons focus on precision and personalised care. Whether the laxity is mild or extensive, the surgical approach is tailored to the individual’s anatomy to ensure the most natural-looking and aesthetically pleasing outcome possible.

Your Guide To Brachioplasty Surgery

Your journey toward more contoured arms at Plastic Surgery Queensland begins with a detailed consultation. During this initial meeting, your surgeon will evaluate your skin elasticity, the amount of excess tissue present, and your overall health. We take the time to understand your specific goals, explaining the different incision techniques and what you can expect from the final results. This collaborative process ensures that your surgical plan is uniquely designed to enhance your natural proportions.
Plastic Surgery Brisbane Queensland
Brachioplasty:

Are You an Ideal Candidate?

Ideal candidates for an arm lift are individuals who are bothered by significant skin laxity in their upper arms. This often includes patients who have achieved stable weight loss but are left with hanging skin, as well as those experiencing age-related loss of skin tone.

Candidates should be in good general health, non-smokers (or willing to quit for the duration of the healing process), and have realistic expectations about the surgical outcome and the resulting scars. It is important that your weight has remained stable for several months prior to the procedure to ensure long-lasting results.

Before and after

Brachioplasty Surgery
Plastic Surgeon: Dr Theo Birch
Brachioplasty Surgery
Plastic Surgeon: Dr Theo Birch
Brachioplasty Surgery
Plastic Surgeon: Dr Theo Birch
All patients have consented to their images being published. These images are no guarantee of any individual surgical outcome, Individual results may vary. Any surgery or invasive procedure carries risks.

Plastic Surgery Queensland advocates the National Law and Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency
(AHPRA) guidelines that any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.

Interested in finding out more?

What You Need to know

1. EXPECTATIONS

A referral is required for your initial consultation. During your assessment, your surgeon will determine your suitability for the procedure and discuss the expected improvements. It is important to understand that while brachioplasty significantly improves arm contour, it does result in a permanent scar along the arm. Being transparent about your medical history, current medications, and lifestyle habits is essential for a safe surgical experience.

2. SURGERY

Brachioplasty is a meticulously planned procedure performed under general anaesthesia. The surgery typically takes between two to three hours, depending on the complexity and whether liposuction is included. Your surgeon will make an incision, usually extending from the underarm to just above the elbow, to remove the excess skin and fat. The underlying tissues are tightened with internal sutures, and the skin is smoothed over the new contour. Our surgeons use advanced techniques to ensure the incisions are closed precisely, aiming for the finest possible scarring.

3. RISKS

As with any invasive procedure, brachioplasty carries certain risks. Short-term considerations include swelling, bruising, temporary numbness, and discomfort. Potential complications can include infection, delayed wound healing, or fluid accumulation (seroma). Long-term risks may involve visible scarring or asymmetry. Your surgeon will provide a comprehensive overview of these risks during your consultation so you can make an informed decision.

4. POST
PROCEDURE

Recovery is a vital phase of your brachioplasty journey. Immediately following surgery, you will be monitored by our clinical team to ensure you are comfortable and stable. You will be required to wear a medical-grade compression garment for approximately 6–8 weeks; this is crucial for reducing swelling and supporting the new contours of your arms as they heal.

During the first few weeks, you must avoid strenuous activity, heavy lifting, and any movements that put tension on the incisions. Most patients can return to light activities within 10–14 days, but full exercise usually requires a 6-week wait. You will have access to our after-hours Nurse Practitioner and your surgical team for any concerns. Regular follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor your progress and ensure your recovery is on track for the best possible aesthetic result.

FAQs

A typical brachioplasty procedure takes approximately 2 to 3 hours. It is often performed as a day surgery, though in some cases, an overnight stay may be recommended depending on the extent of the surgery and your recovery.

Incisions are generally placed on the inside or the back of the arm to make them as inconspicuous as possible. While scars are permanent, they typically fade and flatten significantly over twelve to eighteen months.

Most patients who have desk-based roles can return to work within 1 to 2 weeks. If your job involves physical labour or lifting, you may need to wait 4 to 6 weeks before returning to full duties.

You will be under general anaesthesia during the surgery and will not feel anything. Post-operatively, discomfort is managed with prescribed pain relief. Most patients find that any significant soreness subsides within the first week.

Yes, the results of an arm lift are generally long-lasting, provided you maintain a stable weight and a healthy lifestyle. While the surgery removes excess skin, your body will still continue to age naturally over time.

 

Yes, many patients choose to combine brachioplasty with other body contouring procedures, such as a tummy tuck or liposuction in other areas. Your surgeon can discuss the safety and benefits of combined procedures during your consultation.

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Plastic Surgery Queensland advocates the National Law and Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) guidelines that any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
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