All About
Arm Lifts
An arm lift, also known as brachioplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the upper arms to create a slimmer, tighter, and more toned appearance. It is especially popular for individuals who have experienced significant weight loss or natural aging, which can lead to sagging, loose skin—sometimes called “bat wings.”
During the procedure, Dr. Gupta reshapes the upper arm by tightening the tissue and removing excess skin, giving you a smoother contour that complements your body shape. An arm lift can help restore confidence and comfort when wearing short sleeves or sleeveless clothing.
What is an Arm Lift?
Also known as a Brachioplasty!
Actual Verve Patients
Why an Arm Lift?
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An arm lift removes excess skin—often called “bat wings”—that can develop after weight loss or aging.
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By reshaping and tightening the upper arms, the procedure creates a slimmer, more toned appearance.
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Removing excess skin can make wearing short sleeves and fitted clothing more comfortable and flattering.
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An arm lift can help you feel more confident showing your arms and more comfortable in your overall appearance.
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The Procedure
Here’s what you can expect during your arm lift procedure.
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You’ll be placed under general anesthesia for your safety and comfort.
Before surgery, Dr. Gupta will make precise markings on the upper arms to outline the areas of excess skin and fat to be removed.
This is typically an outpatient procedure, and you’ll go home the same day.
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An incision is made along the inner arm, typically from the armpit to just above the elbow.
In some cases, a limited incision in the armpit may be used if less skin removal is needed. The incision pattern will depend on the amount of skin laxity and your desired result.
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Liposuction may be used to remove excess fat and enhance the contour of the arms, especially in patients with stubborn fat deposits along the triceps area.
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Dr. Gupta will remove the loose, sagging skin and tighten the underlying tissue to create a firmer, more toned upper arm.
This step significantly reduces the appearance of "bat wings" or hanging skin after weight loss or aging.
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The incisions are closed in multiple internal layers to provide support and promote smooth healing.
Sterile dressings are applied, and you’ll be placed in a compression sleeve to help reduce swelling and support the new contour.
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You’ll be monitored briefly in recovery and discharged the same day.
Swelling and bruising are normal during the first 1–2 weeks.
You’ll need to wear your compression garment for 4–6 weeks and avoid lifting or strenuous arm activity during the early healing phase.
Results improve as swelling subsides, with final contour visible around 3 months post-op.
Procedure Video
FAQs
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It is recommended to avoid lifting your arms over your head until 3-4 weeks post op. There is tension on the incision in the axilla (arm pit) and we want to ensure that area is fully healed before raising your arms up.
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Scars will take up to a full year to heal.
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You may be able to resume light activity once you are 4 weeks post op, moderate activity at 6 weeks post op and high level activity once you are 8 weeks post op.
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Your arms will be much slimmer immediately after surgery. There will be residual swelling in the tissue which takes 2-3 months to diminish.
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Results are long-lasting as long as you maintain a stable weight and healthy lifestyle. However, natural aging may still affect skin elasticity over time.
Sign up for the Verve Standard Membership to access all pre-op and post-op instructions, recovery videos, and helpful tips and tricks—everything you need for the smoothest possible surgery experience.
Book a consultation for an Arm Lift!
info@verveplasticsurgery.com
(760) 436-7600
700 Garden View Court STE 208
Encinitas, CA 92024