Arm lift surgery, or brachioplasty, is a cosmetic procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the upper arms, often referred to as “bat wings.” The procedure reshapes the underside of the upper arm—from the elbow to the armpit—to create a firmer, more toned appearance.
It is especially beneficial for individuals who have lost significant weight or developed loose skin due to aging.
To remove loose or sagging upper arm skin
To reduce fat accumulation in the arms
To improve arm contour and overall body proportions
To feel more confident in short-sleeved or sleeveless clothing
To address skin chafing or hygiene issues due to hanging tissue
To complete a post-weight loss transformation
You may be a good candidate for an arm lift if you:
Have significant skin laxity or sagging on your upper arms
Are at a stable and healthy weight
Have good overall health and do not smoke
Have realistic expectations about the procedure and results
Are bothered by the appearance or movement of excess upper arm tissue
Note: If you have good skin elasticity and only excess fat, liposuction alone may be sufficient.
Involves an incision from the armpit to the elbow
Excess skin and fat are removed
Muscles may be tightened, and skin is redraped
Best for: Moderate to severe skin laxity
Limited incision near the armpit only
Suitable for patients with mild skin laxity
Best for: Early aging or minor weight loss patients
Extends the incision to include the side of the chest or back
Often combined with upper body lifts after massive weight loss
Best for: Patients with extensive skin laxity beyond the arms
Performed under general anesthesia
Incisions are made based on the selected technique
Fat may be removed via liposuction
Excess skin is excised, and the arm is contoured
Incisions are closed with sutures, and compression garments are applied
Surgery duration: 1.5–3 hours
A thorough consultation and arm skin assessment will be conducted
You may be advised to stop smoking, alcohol, and blood thinners
Pre-operative tests will be done
Instructions on nutrition, hydration, and wound care are provided
Arrange for post-op support at home, especially for dressing and daily needs
You will wear a compression sleeve for 4–6 weeks to reduce swelling
Swelling and bruising are normal for 1–2 weeks
Sutures may be removed or dissolve naturally
Arm movement will be limited initially; gradual stretching follows
Most patients return to desk jobs in 7–10 days
Full results are visible in 2–3 months
• Swelling, bruising, and tightness along the incision
• Keep arms elevated and avoid lifting heavy objects
• Walking is encouraged to promote circulation
• Bruising subsides, and scars begin to fade
• Gentle range-of-motion exercises begin
• Compression garments still required
• Final contours begin to appear
• Incision lines fade and can be treated with scar therapies
• Return to full activities and arm workouts
• Improved arm contour and definition
• Reduction of loose, hanging skin
• Better fit in clothing and sleeveless tops
• Boost in confidence and body image
• Long-lasting results when paired with healthy weight maintenance
One
Local anesthesia
Immediately
7 days
None
* For informational purposes only, be sure to consult your doctor for diagnosis and treatment.
Yes, but incisions are placed on the inner arm, where they are less noticeable. Scars fade over time and can be treated with scar therapy.
If you have good skin elasticity and only excess fat, liposuction alone may be sufficient. If sagging skin is present, a lift is usually needed.
Yes. Many patients combine it with tummy tuck, breast lift, or thigh lift as part of a post-weight loss body contouring plan.
Yes, if you maintain a stable weight and active lifestyle, the results can last for many years. Natural aging continues but won’t undo the benefits.
Discomfort is manageable with medication. Most patients feel tightness and soreness in the first week, improving gradually.
Light walking can resume within a few days. Full upper-body workouts can usually resume after 6–8 weeks, depending on healing.
No. Once healed, you’ll regain full range of motion. Post-op physical therapy may be recommended in some cases for flexibility and strength.
Yes. Men who have lost weight or have genetic sagging in the arms also undergo brachioplasty. Techniques are tailored to maintain masculine arm contours.
Medipol University Hospital, being the justifiably proud of Medipol Education and Health Group in Turkey and in the world, resulting in this spirit, is a health complex having JCI standards accepting patients from all over the world.
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