Arm Lift (Brachioplasty) in Perth
Sagging (ptotic) skin on the upper arms is a common concern for many people, whether due to significant weight loss, ageing, or genetics. No matter how much you exercise, excess skin doesn’t always tighten on its own. This can lead to discomfort, chafing, and self-consciousness, making it difficult to wear short sleeves or feel confident in fitted clothing. Dr Robert Owen is a Specialist Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon in Perth who performs arm lift surgery (brachioplasty) for patients with excess upper arm skin or localised fat. The procedure is tailored to individual anatomy and aims to improve arm contour where clinically appropriate. If you’ve been concerned by excess arm skin, an arm lift might be an option for you.
This guide will take you through what you need to know about the procedure, from how it works to recovery, risks, and long-term expectations.
2 hours
General
Day case or overnight
6 weeks
You should see the final outcomes of your arm lift in 6 months, but it can take 12 months for arm lift scars to fully fade.
What Is an Arm Lift and Who Needs It?
An arm lift is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the upper arms, aiming for a firmer, more toned appearance. The procedure may be beneficial for those who have lost a significant amount of weight and are left with loose, hanging skin that won’t improve with exercise alone.
You may be a suitable candidate for an arm lift if you:
- Have loose, sagging skin on your upper arms due to weight loss or ageing.
- Are at a stable weight and committed to maintaining it.
- Are in good overall health and do not smoke.
- Struggle with skin irritation, chafing, or discomfort caused by excess skin.
However, not everyone is an suitable candidate. Those with uncontrolled diabetes, blood clotting disorders, or a history of poor wound healing may be advised against surgery. Additionally, if you are still in the process of losing or gaining weight, it’s best to wait until your weight has stabilised.
Contact UsTypes of Arm Lift Procedures
Mini Arm Lift
If you have mild sagging, a mini arm lift may be all you need. This involves a small incision placed in the armpit, allowing for less scarring and a reduced recovery. However, it is best suited for patients with good skin elasticity, as it only removes a small amount of tissue.
Standard Arm Lift
For those with moderate to severe sagging (ptosis), a standard brachioplasty is the most common approach. This involves a longer incision along the inner arm, from the armpit to the elbow, allowing for significant skin tightening.
Extended Arm Lift
Patients with extreme excess skin, particularly after major weight loss, may require an extended arm lift. This technique extends the incision down the side of the chest, addressing not only the upper arms but also the upper torso.
Liposuction-Assisted Brachioplasty
If the primary concern is localised fat rather than excess skin, liposuction may be considered on its own or in combination with an arm lift procedure. The decision is based on individual anatomy and surgical goals, and the aim is to achieve a more proportionate upper arm contour where appropriate..
How to Prepare for Arm Lift Surgery
Preparing for surgery is just as important as the procedure itself. Dr Robert Owen will guide you through each step, but here’s what you should expect:
- Stop smoking at least four weeks before surgery, as smoking increases the risk of complications and delays healing.
- Avoid blood-thinning medications (such as aspirin or certain supplements) to reduce the risk of excessive bleeding.
- Maintain a stable weight, as fluctuations can affect your long-term outcomes.
- Prepare your home for recovery – arrange for help with daily tasks, stock up on easy-to-prepare meals, and set up a comfortable resting area.
What to Expect During Surgery
The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia, meaning that you are completely asleep and pain-free. Depending on the type of arm lift, Dr Owen will make the necessary incision, remove excess skin and fat, and carefully reshape the arm for a more contoured appearance.
The surgery typically takes two to four hours, after which you will be monitored in the recovery room before being discharged home the same day.
Recovery & Healing Timeline
Recovery time varies for each patient, but here’s a general timeline:
- Week 1-2: Swelling and bruising peak. You’ll need to wear a compression garment to support healing.
- Week 3-4: Swelling subsides, and you’ll be able to resume light activities but should avoid lifting heavy objects.
- Month 2-3: Most swelling resolves, and your arm contour becomes more visible.
- Months 6-12: Your final outcomes settle, and scars begin to fade significantly.
During recovery, proper wound care, hydration, and a healthy diet will help speed up healing.
Common Risks & How to ManageThem
As with any surgery, brachioplasty carries some risks, including:
- Bleeding and infection – reduced by following proper aftercare instructions.
- Scarring – which will fade over time with the right scar management techniques.
- Temporary numbness – as the nerves in the area adjust post-surgery.
- Asymmetry or contour irregularities – in some cases, minor revisions may be needed.
Dr Owen’s experience and strict adherence to surgical safety protocols significantly reduce these risks.
Non-Surgical Alternatives to an Arm Lift
If you have only mild sagging (ptosis), you might consider non-surgical skin tightening treatments such as:
- Radiofrequency treatments (Ultherapy, Thermage) to stimulate collagen.
- Laser skin tightening to address elasticity.
- Cryolipolysis (fat freezing) to target stubborn fat.
These non-invasive methods won’t provide the same clear-cut results as surgery, but they may help address skin firmness in early stages of ageing.
Contact UsFAQs
Find out more about your surgical journey
Am I a suitable candidate for an arm lift?
✔ You may be a suitable candidate if you have excess, sagging (ptotic) skin on your upper arms due to weight loss, ageing, or genetics.
✔ You should be in good overall health, at a stable weight, and a non-smoker.
✔ The best way to determine eligibility is through a consultation with Dr Robert Owen.
Will an arm lift remove excess fat as well as redundant skin?
✔ Yes, but only to a certain extent.
✔ If you have both redundant skin and excess fat, liposuction may be combined with your arm lift to assist with the overall outcome.
✔ If your skin is firm and elastic, but you only have excess fat, liposuction alone may be an alternative.
Where will the scars be, and will they fade over time?
✔ The incision is typically placed along the inner arm, extending from the armpit to the elbow (depending on the amount of skin removed).
✔ Scars will fade over time, but they won’t completely disappear.
✔ Following proper scar management techniques (silicone treatments, sun protection) helps address their appearance.
How long does recovery take?
✔ Most patients return to light activities within 1-2 weeks.
✔ Swelling and tightness improve significantly after 4-6 weeks.
✔ The final outcome is generally assessed between 6 to 12 months after surgery, as swelling subsides, scars mature, and the arm contour stabilises.
Will an arm lift make my arms look slimmer?
✔ Yes, an arm lift removes excess skin and reshapes the upper arms, to address contour.
✔ If localised fat is present, liposuction may be used to support the overall surgical outcome.
When can I exercise after surgery?
✔ You can start light walking after a few days to promote circulation.
✔ Strenuous arm exercises (lifting, pushing, pulling) should be avoided for at least 4-6 weeks.
✔ Dr Owen will guide you on when it’s safe to resume workouts based on your healing progress.
How long will my results last?
✔ Results are long-lasting, provided you maintain a stable weight and follow a healthy lifestyle.
✔ Ageing and natural skin changes may affect the outcomes over time, but most patients enjoy long-term improvements.
Further Reading
Explore more about Arm Lift (Brachioplasty) and related topics on Dr Robert Owen’s Website:
Medical References
- Brachioplasty / Hopkins Medicine / https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/brachioplasty
- Brachioplasty (Arm Lift): Surgery, Recovery & What To Expect / Cleveland Clinic / https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/23367-brachioplasty-arm-lift
- Brachioplasty (arm lift surgery) / Better Health Channel (Victoria State Government) / https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/brachioplasty-arm-lift-surgery
- Brachioplasty / National Center for Biotechnology Information / https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK585115/
- Complications associated with brachioplasty: a literature review / Acta Bio Medica / https://www.mattioli1885journals.com/index.php/actabiomedica/article/download/5609/4104/17608
- Complications associated with brachioplasty: a literature / National Center for Biotechnology Information / https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6166161/
- The Jaws Brachioplasty: An Original Technique: Improving Aesthetic Outcomes in Arm Lift Procedures / Journal of Clinical Medicine / https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0383/11/17/5038
Why Choose Dr Robert Owen for Your Arm Lift in Perth?
Dr Robert Owen is a Specialist Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon with extensive training in body contouring procedures. He takes an individualised approach to care, using evidence-based surgical techniques to achieve outcomes that align with each patient’s anatomy and goals.
With his specialist training, access to accredited surgical facilities, and commitment to patient safety, Dr Owen provides care that is grounded in clinical best practice.
📅 Take the Next Step!
If you’re ready to proceed to the next stage, book a consultation with Dr Owen!
