Arm Lift

You’ll meet with Dr. Aimé for a consultation to review your medical history, undergo a physical examination, and discuss your goals and areas of concern. She will provide a personalized surgical plan tailored to your anatomy and aesthetic objectives. Closer to your surgery date, you’ll return for a preoperative appointment to review the final surgical plan, ask any remaining questions, and receive detailed instructions for preparing for surgery.

Depending on your medical history, you may need to complete bloodwork or obtain medical clearance from your primary care physician. Certain medications and supplements may need to be adjusted or stopped prior to surgery to minimize the risk of bleeding. If you smoke or vape, it is essential to stop at least four weeks before and after surgery, as nicotine significantly impairs wound healing and increases the risk of complications.

Arm lift surgery, or brachioplasty, is performed by making an incision along the inner upper arm, typically from the armpit to the elbow. The length and placement of the incision depends on how much excess skin and tissue is present and your desired result. There are several types of brachioplasties—limited incision, standard, and extended—and Dr. Aimé will recommend the most appropriate technique based on your unique anatomy and goals.

The procedure often begins with liposuction to remove excess fat, followed by surgical removal of loose skin and underlying tissue. Internal support sutures are placed to contour and tighten the arm’s shape. The incisions are then closed with dissolvable sutures, sterile dressings and compression are applied. The result is a smoother, firmer arm contour that better reflects your body shape and efforts.

Recovery from an arm lift (brachioplasty) involves several phases, and the exact timeline can vary from person to person. Moderate pain, swelling, and bruising are common early on, but these are usually well tolerated with anti-inflammatory and prescription pain medications, arm elevation on pillows, and compression. Showering is typically permitted 24–48 hours after surgery. Dressings are changed daily until incisions are well healed, and you may be advised to wear a compression garment for 2–4 weeks—many patients choose to wear it longer for comfort and swelling control. Swelling can be minimized by avoiding jewelry, keeping arms elevated, and not allowing arms to hang down at your sides for extended periods. Light arm movement, such as gently raising your arms to wash your hair, is okay. Most patients return to normal daily activities within a few days and to work within one week. Light to moderate exercise resumes between weeks 2–6, and full activity is typically safe after week 6. Once incisions are fully healed, scar care begins—typically between weeks 4–6—and scars continue to fade over the following 12 months. Dr. Aimé will monitor your progress closely with post-op visits at 24–72 hours, 1 week, 2 weeks (when any visible suture knots are trimmed), 4 weeks (for progress photos), and again at months 3, 6, and 12.