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Achieve Firmer, More Sculpted Upper Arms

An arm lift, or brachioplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the upper arms to create a smoother, more defined contour. Often performed after significant weight loss or as part of aging-related body contouring, it targets the area between the underarm and elbow. Dr. O’Shaughnessy carefully reshapes this region to reduce sagging, improve tone, and restore proportion to your arms. The result is a firmer, more youthful appearance that can help clothing fit better and boost your confidence in sleeveless styles.

What Does an Arm Lift Treat?

  • Excess, sagging skin on the upper arms
  • “Bat wings” or underarm skin laxity
  • Stubborn fat deposits resistant to exercise
  • Poor skin elasticity after weight loss
  • Asymmetry or imbalance in the upper arm contour

What Is the Recovery Process After an Arm Lift?

After your arm lift, you can expect swelling, bruising, and a feeling of tightness along the upper arms. Most patients take 1 to 2 weeks off work and normal routines, with full activity gradually resumed over 4 to 6 weeks. Discomfort is typically mild and well-managed with prescribed pain medication. You’ll wear a compression garment to minimize swelling and support healing.

To support a smooth recovery, follow these aftercare guidelines:

  • Wear your compression garment as instructed
  • Keep your arms elevated when resting to reduce swelling
  • Avoid lifting heavy objects or reaching overhead for 3 to 4 weeks
  • Clean your incisions gently and follow wound care instructions
  • Take all medications exactly as prescribed
  • Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with Dr. O’Shaughnessy
  • Avoid smoking to promote proper healing

What Happens During Arm Lift Surgery?

During your arm lift, Dr. O’Shaughnessy will begin by marking the excess tissue along the underside of your upper arms, typically extending from the armpit to just above the elbow. You’ll be placed under general anesthesia or IV sedation with local anesthesia to ensure comfort. An incision is made along the marked area, allowing Dr. O’Shaughnessy to excise redundant skin and remove localized fat using direct excision or liposuction, depending on the volume.

Once the underlying tissue is reshaped, Dr. O’Shaughnessy redrapes the remaining skin to achieve a smooth contour. Internal sutures are placed to support the new shape and minimize tension on the outer incision line. The skin is closed with layered sutures to optimize healing and scar quality. A sterile dressing and compression sleeve are applied to manage swelling and support your arms as they heal. The procedure typically lasts 1.5 to 3 hours.

What Are the Expected Results From an Arm Lift?

You’ll notice a visible improvement in the contour and firmness of your upper arms almost immediately after surgery, though swelling may initially obscure your final results. As healing progresses over the following weeks, your arm shape becomes more refined.

Most swelling subsides within 4 to 6 weeks. With stable weight, your results can last for many years. Dr. O’Shaughnessy’s meticulous techniques help ensure minimal visible scarring.

Schedule Your Consultation With Dr. O’Shaughnessy

Dr. Kristina O’Shaughnessy is a board-certified plastic surgeon with 17+ years of experience in aesthetic and reconstructive surgery. Known for her patient-centered approach and meticulous techniques, she offers a woman’s perspective and personalized care to help you feel confident in your results. At her integrated surgical center in Franklin, TN, you’ll receive compassionate support from consultation through recovery. If you’re ready to restore tone and definition to your upper arms, schedule your private arm lift consultation today.

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CONTACT US615-914-3440
Contact Us 615-914-3440