Arm lift (brachioplasty) in Melbourne

Deciding whether the scar is worth the change

Brachioplasty removes loose skin and, where appropriate, fat from the upper arms. It is most often considered after substantial weight loss, when skin does not contract despite a stable weight and exercise. An arm lift is a trade: it can reduce hanging skin, but it leaves a permanent scar, usually along the inner or underside of the arm and sometimes extending towards the armpit.

I examine whether the concern is mainly loose skin, fat or the normal shape of the muscles underneath. That distinction matters. Liposuction can remove some fat but cannot reliably tighten markedly loose skin. Equally, an arm lift cannot change muscular bulk. I have advised patients against surgery when the likely improvement would be small relative to the scar.

Arm lift within a broader weight loss plan

Patients considering brachioplasty after weight loss may also have abdominal, breast or thigh skin excess. At Specialist Surgical Group, I can discuss these concerns as part of one surgical assessment, with weight management and nutritional input where appropriate. We prioritise the areas that matter most to you and plan a sequence you can realistically recover from. You can also read about abdominoplasty , breast lift and thigh lift .

How the operation is planned

The length and location of the incision depend on how far the skin excess extends. Skin and fat are removed, the remaining tissue is redraped and liposuction may be used selectively to improve contour. The intention is a proportionate arm shape without placing unnecessary tension on the closure. If you are considering other body-contouring procedures, we can discuss whether to combine them or stage recovery.

Recovery and risks

Brachioplasty is performed under general anaesthesia. Expect swelling, discomfort, dressings and a period of restricted lifting and exercise. Arm movement and everyday tasks can pull on the incisions, so planning help at home is sensible. Return to work depends on your duties and the extent of the procedure. The scars remain visible to some degree even after they mature.

Risks include bleeding, infection, wound separation, fluid collection, persistent swelling, contour irregularity, asymmetry, altered sensation, conspicuous scars and the possibility of revision. Blood clots and anaesthetic complications are also possible. Further weight change and ageing can alter the result.

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