Arm Lift Surgery
The upper arm lift is a procedure designed to reshape the arms, making them slimmer and better toned. Dr. Dry provides arm lift surgery here in Kirkland, along with many other procedures in body contouring.
Is an Upper Arm Lift Right for You?
It’s common for people (women in particular) to exhibit excess skin and tissue on the upper arms, often due to fluctuations in body weight. Loose tissue on the arms can make a person very self-conscious about her appearance, especially when wearing sleeveless clothing.
An ideal candidate for arm lift surgery should meet the following conditions:
- Excess skin and fat on upper arm
- Disproportionate upper arm
- Non-smoker, in good health
- Motivated to improve arm appearance
During a consultation for arm lift surgery, Dr. Dry can determine if you are a suitable candidate. He will also explain the incision scars that result from this procedure, which most patients are willing to accept in exchange for slimmer upper arms.


Before and After Upper Arm Lift Surgery / Brachioplasty
What is an Arm Lift?
Known by plastic surgeons as brachioplasty, the upper arm lift is a surgical removal of skin and fat on the upper arm. Using liposuction and surgical excision, your plastic surgeon can reduce the circumference of the arm. Incisions are made on the inner side of the upper arm, extending down toward the elbow. Your surgeon trims away the loose skin and then stitches the remaining skin back together. In many cases, liposuction is required to remove fat deposits in the arm.
A less extensive approach, which works for select patients, involves only liposuction of the arm. Dr. Dry may recommend this technique if your skin tone is adequate, but you still have fat deposits in the upper arm,
How Will I Feel After Arm Lift Surgery?
After brachioplasty, your arm movements will be limited. Dr. Dry may advise you to keep the arms elevated and wear a compression garment to help minimize swelling. Common post-operative effects include aching, bruising and swelling, along with changes in skin sensation and pigmentation. Prescription medications can herlp you manage discomfort during recovery from your arm lift.
How Will I Look After Arm Lift Surgery?
After surgery, the arms will be slimmer and the skin will be tighter. It may take several weeks for swelling in your arms to fully subside, so don’t expect to see the final improvement right away. To understand the typical results of upper arm lift surgery, see brachioplasty before and after photos.
To learn more about brachioplasty / arm lift surgery, contact the Kirkland/Seattle area plastic surgery office of Dr. Gavin Dry.
