Brachioplasty (Arm Lift) Philadelphia & New Jersey
Loose or sagging skin along the upper arms can make even the most confident person feel self-conscious. Often the result of aging, genetics, or significant weight loss, excess skin and fat can create a “bat wing” appearance that resists improvement through exercise alone.
At Becker Plastic Surgery, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. David W. Allison performs brachioplasty, or arm lift surgery, to restore smoother, firmer, and more sculpted arm contours. Serving patients throughout Philadelphia and New Jersey, Dr. Allison provides individualized care focused on natural results, patient comfort, and renewed confidence.
Whether your goal is to restore firmness, achieve balanced proportions, or enhance confidence after weight loss, Dr. Allison tailors every procedure to your anatomy and aesthetic goals. His approach combines advanced technique, safety, and artistry to create results that look natural and feel comfortable.
Benefits of Arm Lift Surgery
Arm lift surgery provides both functional and aesthetic benefits, helping patients look and feel more confident.
- Reduction of sagging, loose, or hanging upper-arm skin
- A smoother, firmer, and more youthful contour
- Improved fit and comfort in sleeveless or fitted clothing
- Enhanced confidence in personal appearance
- Long-lasting shape refinement when weight remains stable
For many patients, especially after major weight loss, an arm lift can complete their body transformation. It removes the excess tissue that diet and exercise cannot, restoring proportion and symmetry to the upper body and allowing clothing to fit more comfortably.
What Is Brachioplasty (Arm Lift)?
Brachioplasty is a surgical procedure designed to remove excess skin and fat from the upper arms, creating a tighter, more defined appearance. Over time, factors such as aging, gravity, and weight fluctuations can cause the skin and underlying tissue to lose elasticity. Even with regular exercise, stretched skin rarely retracts on its own once collagen and elasticity have diminished.
An arm lift removes this excess skin and, when needed, underlying fat to restore smooth contours extending from the underarm to the elbow. The procedure may be combined with liposuction for enhanced definition and seamless blending between the treated and surrounding areas.
Unlike liposuction alone—which removes fat but does not tighten skin—brachioplasty also addresses the underlying supportive tissues, providing longer-lasting improvements in firmness and tone. The result is a more youthful, proportionate upper-arm appearance that reflects the effort you’ve put into maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
How the Procedure Works
Brachioplasty is performed in an accredited surgical facility under general anesthesia or IV sedation, depending on the extent of correction and patient preference. The procedure typically takes one to two hours to complete.
Incision and Technique
Dr. Allison begins by marking the treatment area carefully to ensure balance and symmetry. Incisions are most commonly placed along the inner arm or the back of the arm, extending from the underarm (axilla) toward the elbow. The length and location of the incision depend on the amount of excess skin to be removed.
Through these incisions, Dr. Allison removes loose tissue and localized fat deposits while tightening the underlying supportive framework of the arm. Liposuction may be used concurrently to refine shape and smooth transitions between treated and surrounding areas.
The skin is then gently redraped over the newly contoured arm and secured with fine sutures to minimize tension and reduce scarring. In some cases, a small temporary drain may be placed to prevent fluid accumulation during early healing.
After Surgery
Once the procedure is complete, patients are fitted with a compression garment to minimize swelling and support the new arm shape. Most patients return home the same day accompanied by a family member or friend.
Recovery and Results
Arm lift surgery is safe and effective when performed by a qualified, board-certified plastic surgeon. However, as with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks, including:
- Bleeding or infection
- Fluid accumulation (seroma)
- Scarring or delayed wound healing
- Asymmetry or contour irregularities
- Temporary numbness or changes in sensation
Dr. Allison minimizes these risks through meticulous technique, comprehensive patient screening, and attentive post-operative care. He prioritizes safety at every stage—from consultation through recovery—to ensure a smooth surgical experience and optimal outcome.
Long-term success depends on maintaining a consistent, healthy lifestyle. Stable weight, balanced nutrition, and regular exercise help preserve your new contour. Significant weight fluctuations may stretch the skin again, affecting the results.
Protecting the incisions from sun exposure and following scar-care instructions will promote optimal fading and healing. For patients who have undergone significant weight loss, combining arm lift surgery with other body-contouring procedures—such as a tummy tuck or thigh lift—can further enhance overall proportions.
Maintaining Your Results
Ideal Candidates
An arm lift may be an excellent option if you:
- Have loose or hanging skin on the upper arms that does not respond to diet or exercise
- Maintain a stable, healthy weight
- Are in good general health and free from conditions that may interfere with healing
- Are a non-smoker or willing to stop smoking before and after surgery
- Have realistic expectations and personal goals for the procedure
Brachioplasty is not a weight-loss substitute but rather a contouring procedure designed for patients who are already near their target weight. During your consultation, Dr. Allison evaluates your anatomy, health history, and aesthetic priorities to create a surgical plan customized to your needs.
Potential Risks and Considerations
Arm lift surgery is safe and effective when performed by a qualified, board-certified plastic surgeon. However, as with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks, including:
- Bleeding or infection
- Fluid accumulation (seroma)
- Scarring or delayed wound healing
- Asymmetry or contour irregularities
- Temporary numbness or changes in sensation
Dr. Allison minimizes these risks through meticulous technique, comprehensive patient screening, and attentive post-operative care. He prioritizes safety at every stage—from consultation through recovery—to ensure a smooth surgical experience and optimal outcome.
Why Choose Becker Plastic Surgery and Dr. David W. Allison?
Dr. David W. Allison, MD, is a board-certified plastic surgeon recognized for his precision, artistry, and personalized approach to aesthetic and reconstructive surgery. With offices in New Jersey and the Philadelphia area, Dr. Allison provides patients with advanced surgical care in a supportive, patient-centered environment.
At Becker Plastic Surgery, Dr. Allison is part of a multidisciplinary team of expert plastic surgeons offering a full range of body and facial procedures. The practice emphasizes safety, natural results, and individualized treatment plans that help patients look and feel their best.
Pick one of our 6 convenient locationsfor Your Plastic Surgery Needs
If loose skin or lack of arm definition makes you feel self-conscious, an arm lift may be the solution. Dr. David W. Allison and the Becker Plastic Surgery team proudly serve patients across Philadelphia and New Jersey, helping them achieve smoother, firmer, and more proportionate arm contours through expert surgical care. Schedule your private consultation today to learn how brachioplasty can help you feel stronger, sleeker, and more confident every day.
Arm Lift Surgery FAQs
What is the difference between brachioplasty and liposuction?
Liposuction removes excess fat but does not address loose or hanging skin. Brachioplasty removes both fat and skin while tightening the supportive tissues of the upper arm, creating smoother and more defined contours.
How long do results last?
Results are long-lasting as long as you maintain a stable weight. While natural aging may cause minor changes over time, most patients enjoy improved arm shape for many years after surgery.
Will I have visible scars?
Some scarring is unavoidable, but Dr. Allison places incisions along the inner or back portion of the upper arm where they are least visible. Scars gradually fade over 12 to 18 months and become discreet with proper care and sun protection.
What type of anesthesia is used?
Brachioplasty is performed under general anesthesia or IV sedation, depending on the extent of correction and your comfort level.
How long is recovery?
Most patients return to non-strenuous activities within one to two weeks. Strenuous exercise, lifting, or sports should be avoided for about four to six weeks to allow proper healing.
Can I combine an arm lift with other procedures?
Yes. Many patients choose to combine arm lift surgery with complementary body contouring procedures such as a tummy tuck, breast lift, or thigh lift, especially after significant weight loss.
Is arm lift surgery safe?
Yes. When performed by an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon in an accredited surgical facility, arm lift surgery is considered safe. Dr. Allison prioritizes sterile technique, patient education, and thorough after-care to minimize complications.
When will I see the final results?
Noticeable improvement appears within a few weeks, with final results continuing to refine over several months as swelling resolves and scars mature.