Brachioplasty

Conveniently located to serve the areas of Tampa, FL

An arm lift, or brachioplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat around the arms to achieve a more sculpted, rejuvenated contour. (1)

For many individuals, the upper arms are one of the most difficult areas to improve, even with consistent exercise and a healthy lifestyle. Sagging or excess skin can appear as a result of aging, genetics, or significant weight loss, leaving many people searching for solutions to improve the look of their arms. For these individuals, an arm lift can provide a solution.

Located in Tampa Bay, Florida, PREMIERE Center for Cosmetic Surgery has a skilled team of board-certified surgeons who focus on producing natural and long-lasting results. With years of experience and a reputation for excellence, PREMIERE Center has become one of the most trusted practices in the Tampa Bay region, serving patients from areas such as South Tampa, Hyde Park, Palma Ceia, Davis Islands, Harbour Island, Bayshore Beautiful, Beach Park, SoHo (South Howard), Downtown Tampa, and Westchase.

To learn more about how an arm lift can help you achieve slimmer and more sculpted arms, call PREMIERE Center for Cosmetic Surgery today at (813) 400-1465 to schedule your personal consultation, or do so by submitting our online contact form. For those from out of the area or with busy schedules, PREMIERE Center offers virtual consultations.

Before and After Photos

Arm Lift Before & After Patient #153
Arm Lift Before & After Patient #153
Arm Lift Before & After Patient #158
Arm Lift Before & After Patient #158
Arm Lift Before & After Patient #161
Arm Lift Before & After Patient #161
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About Arm Lift Procedures

An arm lift tightens and contours the upper arms by removing excess skin and, when necessary, small pockets of stubborn fat. Patients often seek this procedure after weight loss or natural changes due to aging, when the skin loses elasticity and begins to sag. The goal of brachioplasty is to create a balanced, toned appearance that complements the patient’s overall body shape. There are several variations of arm lift procedures available at PREMIERE Center for Cosmetic Surgery. Our team tailors each brachioplasty to the unique concerns of the patient, ensuring that results align with personal goals.

Traditional Arm Lift

This approach is most effective for patients who have significant amounts of loose or sagging skin. A surgeon will make an incision along the inner arm, extending from the elbow to the armpit, allowing for the removal of excess skin and reshaping of the underlying tissue.

Mini Arm Lift

A mini arm lift best suits patients with a smaller amount of excess skin. In this procedure, incisions are shorter and will be near the armpit, offering noticeable improvement with minimal scarring. (2)

Arm Lift with Liposuction

For patients with both excess skin and fat, surgeons will combine liposuction with excisional techniques. This creates a more sculpted look while tightening the overall contour of the arm.

Benefits

An arm lift can provide dramatic improvements that are both aesthetic and functional. This procedure offers many benefits, including:

  • Improved contours and arm definition
  • Better overall body proportions
  • Reduction of chafing or skin irritation caused by loose tissue
  • A rejuvenated and youthful arm appearance
  • Long-lasting results
  • Improved self-confidence and comfort in sleeveless clothing

If you are interested in experiencing these benefits for yourself, call PREMIERE Center for Cosmetic Surgery at (813) 400-1465 or contact our office online to schedule your personal consultation.

Ideal Candidates

An arm lift may be right for you if you are looking to address sagging or excess skin on your upper arms. The procedure is suitable for a wide range of patients, but those who make ideal candidates are:

  • Individuals with loose, sagging, or excess skin on the upper arms
  • Patients who have lost significant weight and want to refine their arm shape
  • In good overall health
  • Those who do not use nicotine products or are willing to temporarily quit
  • Individuals who maintain a stable weight and a healthy lifestyle
  • Patients with realistic expectations about surgery and results

During your consultation, your PREMIERE Center surgeon will establish your candidacy.

Personal Consultation

Every arm lift procedure begins with a thorough consultation at PREMIERE Center for Cosmetic Surgery. During this meeting, one of our experienced staff members will evaluate your arms, review your medical history, and discuss your personal goals. This allows us to design a customized treatment plan that addresses your needs while keeping your safety and comfort as top priorities. The consultation is also the perfect opportunity to ask questions, learn about recovery expectations, and explore the different arm lift techniques available. Our team believes in patient education, so you will leave your appointment with a clear understanding of the procedure and confidence in your treatment plan.

Take the first step toward slimmer and more toned arms by calling PREMIERE Center today at (813) 400-1465 or by contacting us online to schedule your personal consultation.

Preparation

Proper preparation is an important part of ensuring that your surgery and recovery go smoothly. Patients will receive detailed instructions tailored to their individual case, but some common guidelines include:

  • Discontinuing certain medications or supplements
  • Avoiding nicotine use for several weeks before and after surgery
  • Filling prescriptions for pain management in advance
  • Arranging for transportation home after the procedure
  • Preparing a recovery space at home with necessary supplies
  • Planning adequate time off from work and physical activities

The staff at PREMIERE Center will be available to answer questions and provide support throughout the preparation process.

Procedure

Depending on your surgical plan, you can expect to receive either general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation for your procedure. Once you are comfortable, one of the PREMIERE Center surgeons will make small incisions in discreet locations along the inner arms. If necessary, they will use liposuction to remove stubborn fat before removing excess skin. They will then carefully tighten the remaining skin and reposition it to create a smoother and more youthful contour. When the necessary corrections are complete, they will place sutures to close the incisions and apply a compression garment to support the arms during healing. The procedure usually lasts between two and three hours, depending on the extent of correction. Patients return home the same day with a trusted friend or family member.

Recovery

The arm lift recovery phase will vary slightly from patient to patient, but most individuals are able to resume normal daily activities within one to two weeks. During the initial recovery period, patients should keep their arms elevated and avoid strenuous activities. They must wear compression garments to minimize swelling and help the skin adapt to its new shape.

Patients can expect some swelling and bruising in the first few weeks, but these effects gradually subside. Our team provides personalized scar management guidance to help incisions heal in the most discreet way possible, as well as other detailed recovery instructions. Most patients notice a significant improvement in the appearance of their arms as the weeks progress, with final results becoming more visible after several months.

Results

Once healing is complete, patients enjoy firmer, smoother, and more contoured upper arms. These results often lead to increased confidence, especially when wearing sleeveless or fitted clothing. With commitment to a healthy lifestyle and stable weight, the improvements from an arm lift can last for many years.

Patients frequently report that their arm lift not only enhances their appearance but also improves their comfort in daily activities, making it one of the most rewarding body contouring procedures available. Because of these transformative effects, arm lifts frequently elicit high patient satisfaction rates. (3)

Cost of an Arm Lift in Tampa Bay

The cost of an arm lift at PREMIERE Center for Cosmetic Surgery will vary depending on the complexity of the procedure, whether it requires liposuction, and other factors unique to each patient. During your personal consultation, one of our patient consultants will provide a detailed cost estimate so you can plan your treatment with confidence. Our office also provides financing options for qualified patients, making it easier to achieve your desired results.

Schedule a consultation today to explore your arm lift possibilities. If you have any questions or prefer to schedule over the phone, please call our Tampa office at (813) 400-1465.

Corresponding and Combination Procedures

Many patients choose to combine their arm lift with other body contouring procedures to achieve more comprehensive results. Our team frequently customizes treatment plans that address multiple areas in a single surgical session by including procedures such as:

Tummy Tuck

For patients who have lost significant weight or experienced changes after pregnancy, combining an arm lift with a tummy tuck can create dramatic full-body improvements.

Liposuction

Although some arm lifts already feature liposuction, this procedure can also address stubborn fat pockets in other areas such as the waist, thighs, or back.

Mommy Makeover

Some patients choose to include an arm lift as part of a mommy makeover, which addresses multiple areas of the body for a more complete rejuvenation.

By combining procedures, patients often enjoy enhanced proportions and a more balanced final result.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the recovery period after an arm lift?

Most patients return to daily activities within one to two weeks, although they should avoid strenuous exercise for several weeks.

Will I have scars after an arm lift?

All surgical procedures result in some scarring, but our team takes care to place incisions in discreet locations. Scars usually fade over time and can be managed with proper care.

When will I see results from my arm lift?

Initial improvements are noticeable soon after surgery, with final results appearing as swelling subsides over the following months.

Can I combine an arm lift with other procedures?

Yes. Many patients choose to combine their arm lift with liposuction, a tummy tuck, or a mommy makeover for more comprehensive results.

How do I know if I am a candidate for brachioplasty?

The best way to determine candidacy is through a personal consultation, where one of our specialists will evaluate your arms, review your medical history, and discuss your goals.

References

  1. Nagrath N, Winters R. Brachioplasty. PubMed. Published 2023. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK585115/
  2. Abramson DL. Minibrachioplasty: Minimizing Scars While Maximizing Results. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Published online November 2004:1631-1634. doi:https://doi.org/10.1097/01.prs.0000139296.80079.1a
  3. Sisti A, Cuomo R, Milonia L, et al. Complications associated with brachioplasty: a literature review. Acta Bio Medica : Atenei Parmensis. 2017;88(4):393-402. doi:https://doi.org/10.23750/abm.v88i4.5609