For many people, especially women, sagging skin on the upper arms can be a frustrating and confidence-wrecking issue. Whether caused by age, significant weight loss, or genetics, loose skin in this area often resists diet and exercise, making them one of the most stubborn areas of the body to tone. This can affect clothing choices, comfort, and self-image.
What Is Arm Lift Surgery (Brachioplasty)?
Arm lift surgery, or brachioplasty, is a precise procedure that can help with that. Performed on both men and women, it tightens and lifts the loose skin by removing excess fat from the upper arm, making them firmer, toned and more proportionate to the rest of the body.
What causes sagging in the upper arms?
Gaining and losing weight sporadically, aging, lack of muscle tone, or even genetics could induce “bat wings”, or sagging in the arms. For example, as humans age, their skin loses its collagen and elasticity, and even with targeted exercise and clean eating, skin laxity is likely to remain. People resort to surgery for better outcomes and results. It provides physical improvement and emotional relief.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Arm Lift Surgery?
While arm sagging is common, not everyone is an ideal candidates for arm lift surgery. The following individuals qualify for the surgery:
- Individuals with sagging skin on the upper arms due to significant weight loss.
- Those experiencing skin laxity as a result of aging
- People who have reached a stable weight (weight stability is essential for the success of the operation)
How to Choose the Right Surgeon for Your Arm Lift
There are plenty of surgeons out there, but who should you choose to perform your arm lift surgery? There are a few factors you should consider. First and foremost, you should check for the board certification of the surgeon, because it demonstrates the surgeons clear ability in regard to aesthetic judgment and surgical skill. It communicates the surgeon’s expertise and commitment to safety. It is also recommended that you look up said surgeon’s portfolio, i.e: before and after photos provided on their website. These photos can help you prepare for what to expect, and can typically give you an accurate understanding of how the results will look like post-op. Reading patient reviews may also help.
Preparation
Once you are confirmed as a good candidate, the next step is to prepare for the surgery. Preparation makes your experience smoother and recovery easier. Some general things to do pre-op is to quit smoking, get the required blood tests (and any other necessary medical evaluation), arrange post-op help, and other instructions Dr. Ekizceli may require.
What Happens During the Consultation?
During the consultation, Dr. Cengizhan will assess the case and determine the best pathway, ensuring a smooth surgery and the desired outcome, by performing a physical exam on the patient. From the techniques utilised to the amount of skin and fat removed, all of these details will be discussed prior to the surgery and personalised according to what’s best suited for you. You may be asked to follow specific instructions. You may also ask your questions and voice you concerns to the doctor, who will be more than happy to put your mind at ease and work with you to obtain the desired result.
What Happens During the Procedure?
So how is the procedure performed? The procedure takes two to three hours and is performed under general anesthesia. Before starting, the surgeon will mark the upper arms where the incisions will be made. Depending on the patient’s needs, the incisions are usually placed along the back or sides of the upper arms, but in some cases, they may be made from the armpit or near the elbow — this is determined in advance. If there is excess fat, the surgeon first performs liposuction. After removing the fat and excess skin, the incisions are closed using sutures.
Types of Arm Lift Techniques
Not all arm lifts are the same — during the consultation with Dr. Cengizhan, the best technique will be chosen for your case. Some common techniques include:
1. Traditional Brachioplasty
• Incision from elbow to armpit (inner or posterior side)
• Best for patients with significant skin laxity
2. Mini Arm Lift
• Small incision hidden in the armpit
• Suitable for patients with mild sagging
3. Extended Arm Lift
• Incision extends down the side of the chest
• For patients who have lost a large amount of weight
4. Liposuction-Only
• No skin removal; only fat is removed
• Ideal for patients with good skin elasticity
Recovery timeline: What to Expect
It doesn’t end after the surgery is over. In fact, everything is just beginning. Healing is just as important as the operation. Here’s what you should expect post-op to have the smoothest journey:
Week 1: Bruising, swelling, and tightness are normal. Arms should remain elevated, and you must avoid lifting anything.
Week 2: Stitches may be removed (if not dissolvable). Most people return to work if their job is not physically demanding.
Week 3: Light arm movements can resume, such as brushing hair or typing.
Week 6: You can usually return to full physical activity, including lifting and exercise.
Months 3–6: Scars begin to fade and the final results become more visible.
The details are all provided by the doctor and the medical team. Should you have any questions, please contact them.
Speeding up the Healing Process
The patient should keep in mind that the healing process will be sped up by following a good lifestyle. For instance, constantly hydrating, quitting smoking, and avoiding alcohol are some habits that, if implemented, may improve the quality of your life post-op. It goes without saying that consuming foods containing protein, zinc, and vitamin C all boost the healing process and work for your body instead of against it, which is the ultimate goal. Stress management and rest are also helpful.
How to Maintain Arm Lift Results Long-Term
As mentioned above, eating clean and hydrating are key to speeding up recovery. These healthy habits also maintain the firm, smooth results post-op. If combined with regular exercise, you are set for success. Routine check-ins with your surgeon are also encouraged.
Are There Any Risks?
As with any other surgery, an arm lift carries some risk, though complications are rare when performed by an experienced surgeon like Dr. Ekizceli. Possible risks include:
- Infection
- Bleeding or hematoma
- Poor wound healing
- Numbness or changes in skin sensation
- Visible scarring
That is why choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon and following post-op instructions greatly reduces the chances of complications.
Long-Term Results: How Long Does an Arm Lift Last?
Most patients enjoy long-lasting results, especially if they maintain a stable weight and follow a healthy lifestyle. The arms appear:
- Firmer and more defined
- Proportionate to the rest of the body
- Free of loose or hanging skin
While the natural aging process continues, results typically last for many years, and touch-ups are rarely needed, if not needed at all.
Arm Lift and Other Body Contouring Surgeries
Many patients undergo arm lifts as part of a post-weight loss transformation. Patients often combine it with:
- Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)
- Breast Lift or Reduction
- Thigh Lift
- Liposuction of the back or flanks
These procedures can be performed together or in stages depending on the patient’s health and desires.
Scars
Since the arm lift operation is performed along the lower side of the arm, the scars are hidden and tend to fade over time.
Post-op
The patient can usually resume daily activities and routines within two weeks. Light arm movement can begin after three weeks, while all activities — including exercise and heavy lifting — are typically allowed after six weeks.
Common Myths About Arm Lift Surgery
“The scar will always be visible”
As with any other surgery, the arm lift operation involves creating an incision. The most skilled surgeons, nonetheless, place the scar where it will be least visible. As time passes by, the scar itself fades, and the patient is left with a firm and improved shape in the arm.
“It’s only for women”
That is factually incorrect. The arm lift surgery is performed on both men and women, as both genders can suffer from sagging skin. That said, it is more commonly performed on women, who are usually more perceptive to such things.
“I can just do arm workouts instead”
Sagging skin is very difficult to get rid of, if not downright impossible. It is true that with exercise and a healthy diet, the body can get tighter, firmer, and more appealing. However, other factors like skin laxity, aging, and/or genetics may prevent the individual from achieving those results via exercise. That’s why most people resort to surgery for permanent, fast, and guaranteed results. It’s not a shortcut — it’s a solution.
Conclusion
“Bat wings” don’t have to be a source of insecurity anymore. It can be easily eliminated with the Arm Lift surgery in a few hours. Book your consultation today to find out just how much you can improve your appearance and, in turn, boost your confidence.
