Arm lift surgery, medically called brachioplasty, helps patients improve the look of sagging arm skin. 

Saggy arms are the cause of weight gain followed by weight loss.

When weight is gained, especially in a large quantity, some of it is deposited in the arms. The skin stretches to accommodate the extra fat cells. After weight loss, the fat cells are lost, but the extra skin remains and causes sagging. This effect can be mildly helped with muscle exercises, which define the upper arm area. However, for individuals with heavy sagging, the condition can be helped by an arm lift surgery.



This procedure can be performed under local anesthesia along with a sedative. The patient may also opt for general anesthesia. The incisions are made along the inside of the upper arm, from the armpit to the elbow. These are usually made in a zigzag pattern. In some cases, some fat deposits are removed by liposuction.

The skin is stretched over the arm, extra skin is removed, and the rest is stitched together. The stitches used in this surgery dissolve into the body within a few days. It’s important to note that scars will remain somewhat visible after the surgery. They will be on the underside of the arm, however they will be there. Most patients find that somewhat visible scars are better looking aesthetically than sagging skin.



Allergic reactions to the anesthesia used are possible. Infections are rare, but occur in some patients, and are treated with antibiotics.



The average cost for this surgery ranges from $2800 to $3200.



If you have lost a small amount of weight that has caused sagging skin, try to perform arm exercises to decrease the effect of sagging skin. Toned muscles can dramatically help the look of sagging skin. Consider surgery after muscle toning if you do not completely like the effects.