Arm Lift in Delafield
Arms that match how strong you feel.
An arm lift, or brachioplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the upper arm between the underarm and elbow to create a smoother, more contoured appearance. The procedure is commonly sought after significant weight loss, bariatric surgery, or age-related changes in skin elasticity. Incisions are typically placed along the inner arm, and excess tissue is excised before the remaining skin is redraped and sutured.
At a Glance
- ASPS data indicate approximately 23,527 upper arm lift procedures were performed in 2024, a 2% increase from the prior year[7]
- A literature review found the most frequent complication of brachioplasty was hypertrophic scarring, occurring in approximately 10.8% of patients[6]
- Scar remodeling after brachioplasty may take 12 to 18 months to achieve optimal flattening and fading[5]
- The medial antebrachial cutaneous nerve lies within the plane of dissection and is at risk of injury during standard brachioplasty[5]
Overview
An arm lift addresses excess skin and fat in the upper arm caused by significant weight loss, aging, or hereditary factors. Weight fluctuations and the natural decline in skin elasticity can leave the upper arms drooping or sagging in a way exercise alone cannot correct. Brachioplasty removes the excess tissue and reshapes the arm contour.
Demand for the procedure has grown alongside bariatric surgery and GLP-1 receptor agonist weight loss medications. After substantial weight loss, redundant upper-arm skin may affect both appearance and comfort. An arm lift may be performed on its own or as one stage of a larger body contouring plan following massive weight loss.
A visible scar along the inner or posterior upper arm is an inherent outcome of brachioplasty. Its length and placement follow the amount and distribution of excess skin. The incision may be positioned where it is partially concealed, but it generally extends from near the underarm toward the elbow and remains a permanent trade-off for the change in arm contour.
Because the scar is permanent, its management is planned with the operation rather than left to aftercare. Scar revision is listed as a separate procedure at Consona, and Dr. Boehm performs both the operation that creates the scar and the procedure that can improve it. If he later assesses a thickened or widened segment, he already knows how the incision was closed and under what tension. Scar revision cannot erase a brachioplasty scar. It can address a segment that healed thicker or wider than the rest, including one that drifted wide because the closure carried more tension than the skin could hold.
What to expect
- Consultation to discuss your aesthetic goals, review your medical history, assess arm anatomy, and determine the appropriate surgical approach
- Preoperative photographs and measurements for surgical planning
- Preoperative markings are made on the arm while you are standing to identify the areas of excess skin and planned incision lines
- Administration of general anesthesia or intravenous sedation
- The surgical site is cleansed with antiseptic solution
- An incision is made along the inner or posterior aspect of the upper arm, extending from the axilla toward the elbow as needed
- Excess fat is addressed through direct excision, liposuction, or a combination of both
- Underlying supportive tissue is tightened and reshaped with internal sutures
- Excess skin is excised and the remaining skin is redraped over the reshaped arm contour
- Incisions are closed in layers with sutures to minimize tension and promote favorable scarring
- Dressings are applied and the arms may be wrapped in compression garments or elastic bandages
- A small drain may be placed temporarily to prevent fluid accumulation
How a arm lift works
- The degree of skin laxity, the amount and distribution of excess fat, and the anatomy of the arm are evaluated to determine the incision pattern and extent of tissue removal.
- The incision is made along the inner or posterior upper arm. Its length depends on how much skin must be removed and may run from the underarm, or axilla, to just above the elbow. When the excess is minimal, a shorter incision limited to the axillary area may be sufficient.
- Excess fat may be removed by direct excision or liposuction, depending on its volume and location. Liposuction may also be used as an adjunct to produce a smoother contour.
- Internal sutures tighten and reshape the underlying supportive tissue to create a firmer arm contour. Excess skin is then excised, and the remaining skin is redraped over the reshaped arm.
- The incision is closed in layers with sutures. Care is taken to reduce tension at the wound edges and promote favorable scar formation.
When it's recommended
- Excess skin and fat in the upper arm that does not respond to diet or exercise
- Skin laxity following significant weight loss from bariatric surgery or lifestyle changes
- Skin laxity following weight loss associated with GLP-1 receptor agonist medications
- Age-related loss of skin elasticity in the upper arms
- Discomfort or skin irritation from redundant upper arm tissue
- Desire for improved upper arm contour and proportion
Is a arm lift right for you?
Reach out to learn more from Dr. Lucas Boehm.
Concerns it addresses
Recovery & aftercare
- Dressings are applied to the incisions and your arms may be wrapped in compression garments or elastic bandages to minimize swelling
- A small drain may remain in place for several days to remove excess fluid
- Most patients return to light daily activities within 1 to 2 weeks
- Vigorous physical activity, heavy lifting, and strenuous upper body exercise are typically avoided for 4 to 6 weeks
- Swelling and bruising gradually subside over the first several weeks
- Sutures are removed or dissolve according to the surgeon's protocol, typically within 1 to 3 weeks
- Scar remodeling continues over 12 to 18 months, during which scars gradually flatten and fade
- Sun protection of the incision area is important during healing to prevent hyperpigmentation
Alternatives
- Liposuction alone for patients with good skin elasticity and primarily excess fat
- Non-surgical skin tightening treatments using radiofrequency or ultrasound energy (limited evidence for significant skin laxity)
- Acceptance and monitoring if excess skin is mild and not causing functional concerns
- CoolSculpting or other non-invasive fat reduction for mild upper arm fullness without significant skin laxity
Related treatments
How much does an arm lift cost?
An arm lift at Consona with Dr. Boehm costs around $9,350. The exact amount depends on your unique goals and treatment needs. Schedule a consultation today to learn more and receive a personalized quote.
Frequently Asked Questions
- An arm lift, or brachioplasty, removes excess skin and fat from the upper arm between the underarm and elbow. Redundant tissue is excised, and the underlying supportive structures are tightened to reshape the arm. The procedure leaves a permanent scar along the inner or posterior upper arm.
- An arm lift is performed under general anesthesia or intravenous sedation, so you typically do not feel pain during the procedure. Mild to moderate discomfort, tightness, and swelling are common early in recovery and can generally be managed with prescribed pain medication.
- Brachioplasty is generally considered safe when performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon. As with any surgery, it carries potential risks, including scarring, infection, and changes in sensation. The full set of risks appears in the risks section on this page.
- Most patients return to light daily activities within 1 to 2 weeks. Heavy lifting and strenuous upper-body exercise are typically avoided for 4 to 6 weeks. Swelling gradually subsides over the first several weeks, while scar remodeling continues for 12 to 18 months.
- A visible scar along the inner or posterior arm is inherent to brachioplasty and generally runs from near the underarm toward the elbow. It gradually flattens and fades over 12 to 18 months but remains permanent. Scar quality varies by individual and is influenced by genetics, wound care, and sun protection.
- People with an active infection, uncontrolled medical conditions, bleeding disorders, or lymphedema in the arm may not be suitable candidates. Those who smoke or plan to lose a significant amount of additional weight may be advised to postpone surgery. A thorough consultation with a qualified surgeon can determine candidacy.
- The scar sits along the inner or back surface of the upper arm and runs from near the underarm toward the elbow. Its length follows the amount of loose skin, and a short incision confined to the underarm is only an option when the excess is minimal. It may be positioned so it is not obvious from the front, but it cannot be made invisible when the arm is raised. A plan that promises otherwise is not describing this operation or its scar.
- Only when the main concern is fat and the skin has retained enough elasticity to close over a smaller contour. Liposuction reduces volume and depends on that elasticity, which upper-arm skin stretched past its limit no longer has. Liposuction is included in Dr. Boehm's services and has a separate page at Consona. When it does not fit the anatomy, the excess skin has to be removed and the permanent scar comes with that removal.
Arm Lift risks & candidacy
Who should avoid this
- Active infection at or near the surgical site
- Medical conditions that significantly increase surgical or anesthesia risk
- Unmanaged bleeding disorders or use of anticoagulant medications that cannot be safely paused
- Active smoking, which increases risk of wound healing complications and poor scarring
- Unrealistic expectations regarding scarring or surgical outcomes
- Plans for significant additional weight loss, as further changes in body weight may alter results
- Lymphedema or prior lymph node dissection in the axillary region
- Body dysmorphic disorder or external pressure as the primary motivation for surgery
Possible risks
- Visible scarring along the inner arm, which is permanent but typically fades over 12 to 18 months
- Hypertrophic or widened scars, the most frequently reported complication of brachioplasty
- Seroma or lymphocele (fluid collection) requiring aspiration or drainage
- Wound dehiscence or delayed wound healing, particularly at points of tension
- Infection at the incision site
- Hematoma (blood collection under the skin) that may require drainage
- Temporary or permanent numbness or altered sensation in the upper arm or forearm due to nerve proximity
- Injury to the medial antebrachial cutaneous nerve, which lies in the surgical plane
- Asymmetry between the two arms in contour or scar appearance
- Contour irregularities or persistent skin laxity
- Need for revision surgery to address scarring, asymmetry, or residual excess tissue
- Deep vein thrombosis and thromboembolic complications
- Anesthesia-related risks
Your surgeon
Care that respects what makes you, you.
Dr. Lucas Boehm is a Wisconsin native, board-certified, fellowship-trained plastic surgeon and the founder of Consona Plastic Surgery and Aesthetics. His practice is dedicated exclusively to aesthetic surgery of the face, nose, breast, and body, with particular expertise in deep plane facelifts, rhinoplasty, and aesthetic breast surgery. He completed his undergraduate education at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, earned his medical degree from the Medical College of Wisconsin, and completed his plastic surgery residency there as well. He then pursued an Aesthetic Society-endorsed fellowship in aesthetic surgery under the mentorship of Dr. Bradley Calobrace in Louisville, Kentucky. Known for meticulous attention to detail, he approaches each case with precision and intention. His philosophy emphasizes harmony and balance – enhancing what is already beautiful while ensuring every change feels natural, thoughtful, and uniquely you.
- Board-certified
- Am. Board of Plastic Surgery
- Fellowship-trained
- Aesthetic surgery
- 12+ years
- In practice
Sources & references
This article draws on 7 sources, including peer-reviewed research.
Government & research
Educational & general
Medically reviewed by Dr. Lucas Boehm, MD · Last reviewed: 2026-09-12