Body surgery · Kyiv
Brachioplasty (arm lift)
Lifting excess skin of the upper arms when fat removal alone is insufficient.
Brachioplasty removes excess skin and, when needed, subcutaneous tissue from the upper arms. Unlike arm liposuction, it can address loose skin, but it leaves a scar.
Oleksandr Chornomyz · Plastic surgeon
What patients ask about
- Loose skin on the inner upper armThis often follows substantial weight loss or a decline in skin elasticity.
- Folds of skin and fatWhen both fat and loose skin contribute to the volume, the surgeon may discuss combining approaches.
- Asymmetry and discomfortThe assessment considers whether the fold affects movement, clothing, or skin care, and what scar the patient is willing to accept.
What shapes the treatment plan
Liposuction will not tighten a substantial excess of skin. Brachioplasty does not treat cellulite or guarantee a perfectly smooth surface either.
Previous lymph-node surgery, impaired lymph drainage, and skin disease in the treatment area need a separate discussion.
Removing excess upper-arm skin
Before brachioplasty, the surgeon assesses the skin fold and its extension towards the armpit. Previous lymph-node surgery, scars and damaged arm skin need discussion before choosing the incision. Its shape and length depend on the area to be excised.
After marking and anaesthesia, the surgeon removes excess skin and subcutaneous tissue, tightens the remaining skin and closes the wound. Liposuction may be added where agreed.
When surgery is postponed or the plan changes
Previous lymph-node surgery, arm swelling, and skin disease or injury near the planned incision are particularly important to discuss before brachioplasty. The team also considers clotting disorders, metabolic and heart disease, cancer history, infections, and excessive sweating. These factors are assessed individually; active skin inflammation or an acute infection is treated first.
Alongside general risks, complications may include noticeable or wide scars, altered sensation, healing problems, swelling, and injury to deeper structures. Scar placement is discussed before consent.
Incision care and arm activity
Swelling, bruising, and some limitation of arm movement are possible at first. The team will explain wound care and whether compression is needed.
Exercise, heavy lifting, and demanding arm movements resume gradually. Scar maturation takes longer than the initial swelling to settle.
Questions to discuss
Can liposuction alone tighten loose arm skin?
Liposuction removes fat but does not excise a substantial skin fold. Pronounced sagging may call for brachioplasty or a combination of both procedures.
Where will a brachioplasty scar sit?
Its position depends on the extent of excess skin. An incision may run along the inner upper arm; its limits and possible extension towards the armpit are discussed beforehand.
Does previous lymph-node surgery matter?
Yes. Tell the surgeon about lymph-node procedures, arm swelling and impaired lymph drainage, as these can affect the lifting plan.
Price and consultation
The final cost depends on the agreed surgical plan.
Brachioplasty (arm lift)
The consultation will address skin removal, liposuction or a combination, including where the resulting scar would sit.
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