Arm Lift

A brachioplasty, or arm lift, is a surgical procedure that removes excess fat and skin from the upper arms to create a slimmer, firmer, and more contoured appearance. It is ideal for addressing loose skin caused by weight changes, ageing, or genetics.

Smiling middle-aged woman with blonde hair in a beige tank top hugging herself against a light background.

What is an Arm Lift?

A brachioplasty, or arm lift, is a surgical procedure designed to reduce excess skin and fat on the upper arms while improving their overall shape and contour.

The goal is to create a slimmer, more toned appearance by reducing the circumference of the arm and tightening loose or sagging skin.

When the skin has good elasticity and minimal sagging, fat deposits can often be treated with liposuction or VASER liposuction. However, significant skin redundancy or laxity requires surgical removal of excess skin to achieve the desired result.

Excess fat or loose skin in the upper arms can develop due to weight gain, weight loss, ageing, or genetic factors. Arm lift surgery addresses these concerns by combining fat removal and excision of excess skin, resulting in smoother, firmer, and more contoured upper arms.

What are the benefits of Brachioplasty?

An arm lift offers both cosmetic and psychological improvements for patients looking to enhance the appearance of their upper arms.

More contoured and slender arms: Removes excess fat and skin for a smoother shape.

Tighter, firmer skin: Improves skin elasticity and reduces sagging.

Boosted confidence: Feel more comfortable wearing sleeveless or fitted clothing.

Enhanced body proportion: Creates a balanced, more aesthetically pleasing upper body.

Improved wellbeing: Many patients experience a positive impact on self-esteem and overall body image.

Surgical Time: 3 Hours
Time off Work: 2-3 Days
Daycase Procedure
Twilight Anaesthesia
Pain: 3-7 Days
Results: 12 Weeks
Aftercare: 2 Months
Exercise: 6-12 Weeks

How Much Does an Arm Lift Cost?

Arm lift (brachioplasty) surgery starts from £5,498. This all-inclusive price covers your initial consultation, the procedure itself, and all post-operative care and follow-up appointments. Final costs may vary depending on your individual needs and the extent of treatment, with full pricing and options discussed during your consultation.

Arm Lift Cost: From £5,498
image of ai software in healthcare action (operating room)image of ai software in healthcare action (operating room)

Who is Suitable for Brachioplasty?

An arm lift may be a good option for adults who want to improve the shape and contour of their upper arms.

Ideal candidates typically meet the following criteria:

Significant upper arm skin laxity: Excess or sagging skin that doesn’t respond to diet or exercise.

Stable weight: Adults of any age whose weight is relatively steady and who are not significantly overweight.

Good overall health: No medical conditions that could impair healing or increase surgical risks.

Non-smokers: Smoking can affect recovery and increase complications.

Realistic expectations: Understanding what the procedure can achieve and maintaining a positive outlook.

If you meet these criteria, an arm lift can help create firmer, more contoured upper arms, improving both appearance and confidence.

Book a Consultation With One of Our Surgeons

Enquire Now

Arm Lift Recovery and Aftercare

Instructions on discharge

  • Elevate arms above heart level with pillows when sleeping and sitting.
  • TED stockings to be worn for 2 weeks.
  • All dressings to be kept dry until further instructed.
  • Discharge with standard painkillers.
  • You may have a gentle shower and pat dressings dry.

Dressings Clinic

  • Usually about a week after surgery the wounds will be checked.
  • All sutures are dissolvable unless otherwise informed.

Activities

  • Avoid stretching the arms for the first 6 weeks.
  • Normal activities like driving etc are allowed after the first 2 weeks.

Wound Care

  • Micropore tape to the scars - once well healed – for at least 3 months. The micropore tape is to stay on for showering and baths and simply patted dry and not to be changed until it is very loose and almost falling off by itself. Frequent removal of the micropore tape can irritate the scar.
  • Moisturise scar after first 3 months.
  • Moisturising to the surrounding skin usually from the second week onwards.

Your Arm Lift Surgeons

Leading Consultant Plastic Surgeons

image of ai software in healthcare action (operating room)image of ai software in healthcare action (operating room)
Mr Andrej Salibi
MD MRCS MSc (AesthPlastSurg) FRCS (Plast)

Mr Andrej Salibi is a fully qualified and accredited Consultant Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeon.

He has previously worked in the National Health Service (NHS) as a Consultant Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon.

He provides all aspects of plastic, reconstructive and aesthetic surgery from his practices in London and Birmingham.

Miss Maria Chasapi
MD MRCS FRCS (Plast)

Miss Maria Chasapi is a fully accredited UK trained Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeon.

Following the completion of her training within the North West Deanery she was awarded the FRCS(Plast) and entered the GMC Specialist Register for Plastic Surgery.

She provides the whole spectrum of plastic, reconstructive and aesthetic surgery in London, Birmingham and Manchester.

Arm Lift Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about Arm lift surgery

What is an arm lift (brachioplasty)?

An arm lift, or brachioplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the upper arms to create a firmer, more contoured appearance. It can be combined with liposuction for enhanced results.

Who is suitable for an arm lift?

Ideal candidates are adults with sagging upper arm skin, stable body weight, good overall health, non-smokers, and realistic expectations about the results.

What causes loose or sagging upper arm skin?

Loose or excess skin can result from ageing, significant weight loss, weight fluctuations, or genetics, all of which can reduce skin elasticity and lead to upper arm laxity.

Can liposuction alone fix sagging arms?

Liposuction can remove excess fat, but it cannot correct significant loose or sagging skin. An arm lift is required when skin laxity is pronounced.

What does arm lift surgery involve?

The procedure typically involves an incision along the inner or back of the upper arm, removal of excess skin and fat, tightening of underlying tissues, and suturing for a smoother contour.

What is the recovery period for an arm lift?

Initial recovery usually takes 1–2 weeks, with most patients returning to normal activities afterward. Strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided for at least 4–6 weeks.

Are the results permanent?

Results are long-lasting if you maintain a stable weight and healthy lifestyle. Ageing and significant weight changes can affect the long-term appearance.

What are the risks and complications?

As with any surgery, risks include infection, bruising, swelling, scarring, and changes in skin sensation. Choosing a qualified surgeon and following post-operative care instructions reduces risks.

Book A Consultation

Patient Reviews

Real, verified reviews

"

I was very concerned about my breast implant removal and the shape I would be left with. I opted for a removal and an uplift. I love the look of my breasts after the operation. They have a great shape and I feel so confident about my new look. I was also concerned about the scarring but that seems to be fading relatively quickly. An amazing surgeon he put me at ease throughout and I wish I had done this sooner. If I were to have further surgery I would go back to Andrej.

"

I am incredibly pleased with the outstanding care and expertise Maria Chasapi has brought to my surgery. From the initial consultation to the final follow-up, her professionalism, warmth, and attention to detail were second to none. She took the time to understand my goals, explained every step with clarity, and made me feel completely at ease throughout the process. The results have exceeded my expectations—not just aesthetically, but in how confident and comfortable I now feel.

"

Mr Salibi listened to my concerns, he explained the procedure in great detail and answered my list of questions. His persona, his calmess, his reassurance left me feeling at ease and I was so eager to have my tummy tuck after years of hiding my body under smocks and over shirts. I am now six weeks post op and cannot stop smiling... My scar is so neat, so perfect and is healing exceptionally well. My body confidence has returned and I cannot thank My Salibi enough for working his magic.

Our Clinics

Personalised care in London, Birmingham & Manchester

Kat & Co, Birmingham
Cadogan Clinic, London
Pall Mall, Manchester
Logo of The British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons with acronym BAAPS and medical symbol.Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh emblem featuring a crowned eagle on a checkerboard base.Queen Mary University of London logo with a stylized crown above the text.Logo of the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS).Word 'INCISION' in large uppercase gray letters on a white background.