Brachioplasty (Arm Lift)

what is a Brachioplasty ...

Changes in the upper arms, such as excess skin and soft tissue, can develop over time due to factors including ageing, weight fluctuations, or genetic influences. For some individuals, these changes may affect the appearance of the arms and are not always improved through exercise or strength-based training.

Brachioplasty, also known as arm lift surgery, is a procedure that addresses excess skin and tissue in the upper arms. It is typically considered by individuals seeking a surgical option to reshape this area.

The procedure may involve a combination of techniques, including:

  • Removal of excess skin: Skin that has lost elasticity and may hang from the upper arm can be surgically reduced
  • Reduction of localised fat: Where appropriate, liposuction may be used to assist in reducing fat deposits before skin removal
  • Repositioning of underlying tissue: Deeper supportive structures may be adjusted to help maintain the new contour
  • Refinement of arm shape: By addressing both surface and underlying layers, the procedure aims to improve the overall contour of the upper arms in line with individual goals

am I a suitable candidate ...

Brachioplasty may be considered by individuals who are concerned about excess skin or tissue in the upper arms. Suitability is determined through consultation with a qualified surgeon, taking into account your health, anatomy, and treatment goals.

You may be considered a suitable candidate if you:

  • Have noticeable skin laxity in the upper arms due to factors such as ageing or weight changes
  • Experience discomfort related to excess skin, such as chafing or difficulty with certain clothing
  • Are at or near a stable weight and are not planning significant weight changes
  • Do not smoke, or are willing to stop smoking before and after surgery as advised
  • Have realistic expectations about outcomes, recovery, and potential risks
  • Have been assessed as medically suitable for surgery following consultation

The surgical journey for a brachioplasty/arm lift with your surgeon typically involves several carefully coordinated stages:

  • Preoperative marking: Before surgery, your surgeon will carefully map the incision lines along the inner arms, considering body creases and shapes to reduce their visibility. Special attention is paid to arm movement patterns to optimise functional results.
  • Fat reduction with Microaire-assisted liposuction (if needed): In patients with excess fatty tissue contributing to arm volume, a powered liposuction system may be used to remove fat deposits. This can help provide a more comprehensive result.
  • Excision of redundant skin: Skin laxity is assessed, and redundant skin is removed carefully, balancing the need for tightening to keep scars as discreet as possible.
  • Tissue tightening and shaping: Deep structural layers, such as the supportive fascia, are repositioned and tightened to maintain altered arm shape over the long term, not just immediately post-surgery.
  • Closure and dressing: Wounds are strategically closed, often in multiple layers, to support optimal healing. Drains are not usually required. Sterile dressings are applied.
  • Surgical environment: All surgeries are performed at fully accredited hospitals in Melbourne, this makes sure patients receive the highest standards of safety and patient care.

Yes, you will require a GP referral. As of 1 July 2023, AHPRA (Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency) requires all patients to obtain a referral from a GP (General Practitioner).

The recovery process following a Brachioplasty (Arm Lift) is a key phase of the journey toward achieving optimal results. Most patients can resume work and non-physical tasks within 2 to 3 weeks, although full activity, including vigorous exercise, may require up to 8 weeks, depending on individual recovery patterns.

Key aspects of recovery include:

  • Support garment use: Patients wear a specifically fitted support garment day and night for approximately four weeks to help control swelling, support the new arm shape, and protect incisions during early healing. After the first month, garments are worn during the daytime for an additional two months.
  • Wound care protocols: Dressings are kept in place as instructed, and Hypafix tape is often used to support incision sites unless contraindicated. Patients are given guidelines for wound hygiene and observation.
  • Activity restrictions and guidance: While your surgeon will recommend light walking to promote circulation, patients must avoid lifting heavy objects, strenuous exercise, and overhead arm movements for at least four to six weeks. Specific timelines are personalised based on individual healing progress.
  • Post-operative appointments: Follow-up visits are scheduled to allow your surgeon to monitor recovery closely, address any concerns, and advise on the transition back to daily activities.

As with any surgical procedure, a Brachioplasty involves potential risks. Your surgeon will discuss potential risks and complications during your consultation as part of the informed consent process. Visit our Risks and Complications page for more information. Risks and complications can include, but are not limited to:

  • Scarring: Although scar placement is carefully planned, all surgeries leave permanent scars. Over time, scars usually fade but may remain visible under certain lighting or in sleeveless clothing. Inner arm skin is typically thin and known to have variable healing.
  • Seroma (fluid accumulation): A collection of fluid under the skin may develop after surgery, requiring drainage in some cases. Proper compression and careful surgical technique help reduce this risk.
  • Altered sensation: Temporary or permanent changes in skin sensation, such as numbness or tingling, can occur along the incision lines. It can be temporary or permanent in some cases.
  • Delayed healing: Some patients, particularly smokers or those with medical conditions affecting circulation, may experience slower wound healing or wound breakdown.
  • Asymmetry: Slight variations between arms are to be expected. However, significant differences may occur postoperatively despite meticulous surgical technique, as human anatomy is genetically asymmetrical.

Surgical fees can vary between patients depending on the surgical plan and associated hospital and anaesthetic costs. A personalised quote is provided after consultation.

As a general guide, starting surgical fees are from $12,000 (excluding hospital and anaesthetist fees, where applicable).

Costs can vary depending on factors such as:

  • How much excess skin needs to be removed
  • Whether liposuction is included
  • Whether it’s one arm or both arms
  • The incision pattern required to achieve an appropriate result
  • Whether garments and follow-up appointments are included
  • Whether brachioplasty is combined with other procedures

In many cases, brachioplasty is considered a cosmetic procedure and is not covered by Medicare or private health insurance.

In limited situations, Medicare eligibility may be possible when an arm lift is performed to remove significant excess skin after major weight loss, and there is a documented functional medical issue (not purely cosmetic). If you’d like help understanding whether Medicare may apply in your situation, please get in touch with Me Clinic, and our team can guide you through the usual steps.

FAQs ...

Sometimes. If there’s a mix of excess fat and loose skin, your plan may involve liposuction, skin removal, or a combination — depending on what will give the most balanced contour.

Liposuction primarily targets fat; an arm lift targets loose skin (and may also address fat). If the main issue is skin laxity, liposuction alone may not achieve the change you’re looking for.

Arm lift scars are permanent, but they’re planned to be as discreet as possible. How they settle varies, and scars typically soften and fade gradually over months.

You’ll see a change early, but swelling is normal and can temporarily affect shape. The final contour becomes clearer as swelling settles.

It depends on your job and healing. Desk-based work is often possible sooner, while physical jobs that involve lifting usually need more time off.

Most people need to avoid heavy lifting and strenuous upper-body exercise for several weeks, then return gradually once cleared based on healing.

Following your aftercare plan, avoiding nicotine, protecting scars from the sun, and keeping weight stable can all help support good healing.

Swelling, bruising, tightness, and temporary numbness are common early on and usually improve over time.

Potential issues can include wound healing delays, fluid build-up (seroma), infection, widened or thickened scars, asymmetry, and changes in sensation. These are discussed in detail during consultation.

Sometimes, depending on your goals and suitability. Combining procedures can affect recovery, total time under anaesthetic, and overall costs.

why choose me clinic ...

With over 35 years of experience in plastic surgery, aesthetic cosmetic medicine, and skin rejuvenation, Me Clinic is built around a simple priority: patient-first care.

We take time to understand you as an individual and curate an approach that feels meaningful and appropriate for your needs. We listen, we care, and we support you through your journey — from consultation through to aftercare.

Our team of Specialist Plastic Surgeons can advise on suitable options to address your concerns. In an ever-evolving field, we focus on evidence-informed care and contemporary treatment options, with suitability always assessed on an individual basis.

Surgeons who perform Brachioplasty procedures at Me Clinic …

Book your arm lift consultation ...

If you are considering Brachioplasty, a consultation with a Specialist Plastic Surgeon is your opportunity to discuss your concerns, learn about suitable options, and understand what your personalised plan may involve.

For all surgical procedures, you will need a valid GP Medical Referral to have a medical or cosmetic consultation with Me Clinic’s Specialist Plastic Surgeons. To begin your journey, call 1300 852 050 or enquire via our contact form.

We look forward to hearing from you soon and answering any further questions you may have.

book a consultation

contact us ...

we will respond to your enquiry during business hours and generally within a 24 hour timeframe