It’s perfectly normal to notice changes in your upper arms as you age or after significant weight loss. Skin can lose its elasticity, fat may become unevenly distributed, and the area between the shoulder and elbow might start to sag. Though exercise can help tone muscle, it can’t tighten loose skin. That’s where arm lift surgery comes in.
Board-certified plastic surgeon Vivian Hsu, MD, at Best Impression Cosmetic Surgery in Blue Bell, Pennsylvania, can answer your questions and help you decide if an arm lift might be right for you.
Arm lift surgery, or brachioplasty, reshapes the upper arm by removing excess skin and fat. The goal is to create a smoother, firmer, and more contoured appearance. It’s especially popular among individuals who’ve lost a lot of weight or are experiencing skin laxity due to aging.
The procedure is typically done under general anesthesia. Dr. Hsu will make an incision, often along the inner surface of the upper arm, remove extra skin and tissue, and tighten the remaining skin for a natural, lifted look. It’s more than cosmetic. It’s confidence-building.
If you avoid sleeveless shirts or feel self-conscious about the appearance of your upper arms, you aren’t alone. Many people struggle with excess skin in that area, which can be tough to address through fitness alone. Genetics, aging, and weight loss all play a role.
You’re likely a good candidate if you’re in generally good health, have a stable weight, and aren’t a smoker. It’s also important to have realistic expectations. An arm lift won’t make you look like someone else, but it can help you feel more comfortable in your own skin.
Recovery takes time, but most patients say it’s worth the effort. In the first week, you’ll likely experience some swelling, bruising, and tightness. If needed, sometimes we have you keep your arms wrapped in compression garments to reduce swelling and support healing.
Most people return to non-strenuous lower body activities within one to two weeks. Light exercise can usually resume after three to four weeks, but heavy lifting or intense workouts should wait until Dr. Hsu gives the go-ahead. Take it slow. Let your body heal.
Yes, there will be a scar, but Dr. Hsu will place it strategically to be as discreet as possible. Most incisions run along the inside of the upper arm, which means they aren’t easily visible when your arms are at your sides. Over time, scars typically fade and flatten, especially with good care.
For many patients, the trade-off is worth it. The improved shape and firmness often outweigh concerns about scarring. Having confidence in your arms is worth the investment.
Arm lift results are long-lasting, and that’s especially true if you maintain both a stable weight and a healthy lifestyle. The excess skin and fat removed during surgery won’t return, but significant weight fluctuations or natural aging can still affect your results over time.
That said, many patients enjoy smoother, more contoured arms for years. Some even find it easier to stay active and maintain results because they feel better about their bodies. Feeling good fuels more movement. And movement supports long-term success.
No two arms are the same, and your surgery should be unique to you. Dr. Hsu will work with you to understand your goals, evaluate your anatomy, and create a plan that fits your body and lifestyle. Whether it’s a full arm lift or a more limited procedure, the goal is the same: a natural-looking result that helps you feel more confident.
If you’ve been hiding your arms and dreaming of change, this could be your next step. Call or schedule an appointment online today. Because you deserve to feel good in every sleeve—or none at all.
