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 that may result from significant weight loss, aging, or hereditary factors. Fluctuations in weight and the natural decline of skin elasticity can cause the upper arms to develop a drooping, sagging appearance that exercise alone cannot correct. Brachioplasty removes this excess tissue and reshapes the arm contour.
The procedure has seen growing demand alongside the rise in bariatric surgery and GLP-1 receptor agonist weight loss medications. Patients who have lost a substantial amount of weight often have significant redundant skin in the upper arms that affects both appearance and comfort. The procedure may be performed as a standalone operation or as part of a larger body contouring plan following massive weight loss.
A visible scar along the inner or posterior aspect of the upper arm is an inherent outcome of brachioplasty. The length and placement of the incision depend on the amount and distribution of excess skin. Surgeons aim to place incisions where they may be partially concealed, but patients should understand that the scar extends from near the underarm toward the elbow and is a permanent trade-off for improved arm contour.
What to expect
- Consultation to discuss aesthetic goals, review 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 the patient is 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 surgeon evaluates the degree of skin laxity, the amount and distribution of excess fat, and the patient's arm anatomy to determine the optimal incision pattern and extent of tissue removal.
- An incision is made along the inner or posterior aspect of the upper arm. The incision length depends on the amount of excess skin, and may extend from the underarm (axilla) to just above the elbow. In cases of minimal excess, a shorter incision limited to the axillary area may be sufficient.
- Excess fat may be removed through direct excision or liposuction, depending on the volume and location of adipose tissue. Liposuction may be used as an adjunct to achieve smoother contours.
- The underlying supportive tissue is tightened and reshaped using internal sutures to create a firmer arm contour. Excess skin is then excised, and the remaining skin is redraped over the newly contoured arm.
- The incisions are closed in layers with sutures. Care is taken to minimize tension on the wound edges to 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 incisions and the 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, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the upper arm between the underarm and elbow. It reshapes the arm contour by excising redundant tissue and tightening the underlying supportive structures. The procedure results in a permanent scar along the inner arm.
- An arm lift is performed under general anesthesia or intravenous sedation, so patients typically do not feel pain during the procedure. Mild to moderate discomfort, tightness, and swelling are common during the initial recovery period and can generally be managed with prescribed pain medications.
- Brachioplasty is generally considered a safe procedure when performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon. As with any surgery, potential risks exist including scarring, infection, and changes in sensation. These are discussed in detail in the risks section above.
- Most patients return to light daily activities within 1 to 2 weeks. Strenuous upper body exercise and heavy lifting are typically avoided for 4 to 6 weeks. Swelling gradually subsides over the first several weeks, and scar remodeling continues over 12 to 18 months.
- A visible scar along the inner or posterior arm is an inherent outcome of brachioplasty. The scar extends from near the underarm toward the elbow. While scars gradually flatten and fade over 12 to 18 months, they are permanent. Scar quality varies among individuals and is influenced by genetics, wound care, and sun protection.
- Individuals with active infections, 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 the procedure. A thorough consultation with a qualified surgeon can determine candidacy.
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: 2026-06-13