How long is recovery?

Most patients return to routine tasks within 1 to 2 weeks and resume full activities by 4 to 6 weeks.

Will there be a scar?

Yes. The scar runs along the inner arm but fades significantly over time and is placed as discreetly as possible.

Is this procedure suitable after major weight loss?

Absolutely. It's often recommended for patients who lost significant weight and have loose arm skin.

When will I see results?

Results are visible right away, with final definition showing over 3 to 6 months as swelling settles.

Can liposuction be combined with this?

Yes. Liposuction is often used to refine and contour the arms for smoother, more sculpted results.

How long do results last?

Results are long-lasting with stable weight and a healthy lifestyle. Aging will still happen naturally over time.

Arm Lift (Brachioplasty) in North Denver

Woman in a plum tank top with one hand on her hip, showing the upper arm against a plain off-white wall

This is not a real patient photo. This is an example, and results may vary.

The short answer

Arm Lift (Brachioplasty) removes excess upper-arm skin and reshapes the arm contour. It may suit patients with loose skin extending along the upper arm who accept the necessary scar. Patients across the Denver metro begin with an in-person evaluation before any plan is confirmed.

Front view with arms raised to the sides before an arm lift, with loose skin hanging under the upper arms, in a grey sports bra — This is not a real patient photo. This is an example, and results may vary.

Overview

What is Arm Lift (Brachioplasty)?

Brachioplasty, commonly known as an arm lift, is a surgical procedure designed to remove excess skin and fat from the upper arms, helping to create a smoother and more toned appearance. This procedure is ideal for individuals who have experienced significant weight loss or have loose, sagging skin in the upper arm area due to aging.

This procedure can also be performed while the patient is awake, under local anesthesia, allowing for a quicker recovery. The incision can be placed along the inner arm or the posterior arm, depending on the patient's preference and anatomy, with both options designed to minimize visible scarring. The result is a firmer, more youthful and defined arm contour, with improved confidence and comfort.

Some patients need an extended brachioplasty. It uses a longer incision to treat loose skin along the full upper arm and, when needed, onto the side of the chest, so the scar is longer.

Key Benefits

What does Arm Lift (Brachioplasty) do?

An arm lift removes excess skin and fat from the upper arms to create smoother, firmer, and more sculpted contours. This procedure is ideal for patients who have sagging or “bat wings” due to aging or weight loss. It restores tightness, improves arm shape, and many patients say they feel more comfortable in sleeveless clothing. Results are generally long lasting when paired with a stable weight and healthy lifestyle.

Removes sagging, excess arm skin
Firmer, smoother, toned arm appearance
Improves shape after major weight loss
Long-lasting, dramatic contour improvement
Many patients say they feel more comfortable in clothing

Front view with arms raised to the sides after an arm lift, with smoother, firmer upper arms, in a mint sports bra — This is not a real patient photo. This is an example, and results may vary.

Recovery

What is recovery like?

Swelling, bruising, and tightness are normal in the first week. Most patients return to light activities within 1 to 2 weeks, while heavy lifting and workouts are avoided for 4 to 6 weeks. Compression garments help reduce swelling and support healing. Scars soften and fade gradually over time, and results become more defined as swelling improves.