Body surgery · Patient information
Content owner: Dr. Zafer Atakan Practice · Nişantaşı, Istanbul · Updated: July 11, 2026
An arm lift is surgery that aims to improve the arm contour by addressing significant excess skin on the upper arm and, when necessary, limited fat tissue. Liposuction can reduce fat tissue; on its own, it does not eliminate loose and excess skin.
What Is an Arm Lift (Brachioplasty)?
Major weight loss, aging and genetic skin laxity can cause sagging of the upper arms. The incision may remain in the armpit only or, depending on the amount of excess skin, extend along the inner arm toward the elbow.
The balance between removing insufficient skin for a shorter scar and achieving stronger contour correction in exchange for a longer scar should be discussed during the examination.
Who May Be a Candidate?
- Adults with a stable weight and significant excess skin on the upper arms
- People who accept that the position and quality of a long scar will vary from person to person
- People whose smoking/nicotine and chronic disease risks can be managed
- People who can follow restrictions on compression, arm movement and heavy lifting
How Does the Process Work?
- The incision and skin to be removed are marked while standing; limited liposuction is performed when necessary.
- Excess skin and tissue are removed in a controlled manner, and a layered closure is performed while preserving nerve and lymphatic structures.
- The compression garment and wound check schedule are arranged individually.
Expected change in body contour
The aim is to improve the upper arm contour; the scar does not disappear completely. Weight change and skin aging can affect the result.
Alternatives and complementary options
If skin elasticity is good and the problem is mostly fat, liposuction may be considered; for mild laxity, energy-based methods may be considered. Their effects are limited with significant excess skin.
The basis of personalized planning
| Planning 1 | The length of excess skin, amount of fat, skin quality and difference between the two arms are assessed. |
|---|---|
| Planning 2 | History of weight loss, lymphedema, armpit surgeries, smoking and a tendency toward scarring are reviewed. |
| Planning 3 | Incision length, combination with liposuction, drains and compression plan are explained. |
| Planning 4 | Recovery support is planned according to arm use at work and in daily life. |
Frequently asked questions
How long is the arm lift scar?
Depending on the excess skin, it may be limited to the armpit or longer along the inner arm.
Does liposuction fix sagging arms?
Not if skin elasticity is insufficient; sagging may become more noticeable as fat decreases.
Does the scar fade over time?
It may fade and mature; it does not disappear completely.
Are arm movements permanently affected?
There is usually a temporary restriction; rarely, nerve or severe scar problems may have a longer-lasting effect.
Possible risks and complications
- Bleeding, infection, seroma and wound separation
- Widened/visible scarring, skin circulation problems and changes in sensation
- Lymphatic swelling, nerve involvement and temporary restriction of arm movement
- Asymmetry, contour irregularity and revision
Recovery and follow-up
Swelling, bruising, tightness, numbness and temporary restriction of arm movements may occur. It is important not to put excessive tension on the incisions and not to keep the arms raised for long periods. Increasing one-sided swelling, redness or discharge should be assessed.