What an Arm Lift Can Achieve
Ageing, weight loss and changes in skin elasticity can lead to loose, sagging tissue of the upper inner arms. While exercise can improve muscle tone, it cannot correct skin laxity once structural support has diminished.
An arm lift, also known as brachioplasty, addresses these concerns by removing redundant tissue and, where appropriate, excess fat. The aim of surgery is to improve upper arm contour and restore a more balanced, proportionate silhouette.
Your Surgical Journey
Your surgical journey begins with a comprehensive consultation with Dr Collins at The Surgery. This allows time to discuss your goals and expectations, and to develop a surgical plan tailored specifically to you.
An arm lift is performed under general anaesthetic. The surgical approach depends on the degree of tissue laxity present. In most cases, the incision is positioned along the inner upper arm, extending from the armpit (axilla) toward the elbow. In some cases, it may extend into the axilla to allow adequate correction and optimise contour. Liposuction is often performed to further refine the result.
Recovery and Aftercare
An arm lift typically involves a one-night hospital stay. During the first two weeks, you should avoid lifting your arms above shoulder height to minimise tension on healing incisions.
A supportive compression garment is recommended for approximately six weeks to assist healing and contour remodelling. You will also be guided through a structured scar management programme to optimise long-term scar maturation.
Return to work depends on the physical demands of your role. Desk-based work is often possible within one to two weeks, while more physically demanding roles may require a longer recovery period.
Is an Arm Lift Right for You?
You may be suitable for an arm lift if your concerns include loose skin of the upper inner arms that does not respond to diet and exercise alone.
A consultation with Dr Collins allows for a personalised assessment and discussion of the surgical approach most appropriate for you.
Arm Lift in Dunedin with Dr Anne Collins
Frequently Asked Questions
An arm lift, also known as brachioplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and, where appropriate, excess fat from the upper arms to improve shape, contour and silhouette.
The extent of surgery depends on the amount of excess skin and fat present. In most cases, the incision is positioned along the inner aspect of the upper arm, extending from the armpit (axilla) toward the elbow. Occasionally, the incision may extend into the axilla to allow adequate correction and optimise the aesthetic outcome. Liposuction is commonly performed as part of the procedure to further refine contour.
Preparing well is an important part of your surgical journey and helps support the best possible outcome. During your consultation, Dr Collins will review your medical history, anatomy, goals and expectations to help plan your surgery safely and effectively.
The best results are achieved when your weight has been stable and within a healthy range for approximately three months prior to surgery. Patients must be nicotine-free for at least six weeks before surgery, including smoking, vaping and all nicotine replacement products, as nicotine significantly impairs wound healing.
Most patients stay in hospital for one night following surgery.
Yes. Drains are usually placed in the arms to reduce the risk of fluid build-up (seroma). They are temporary and are removed during your early recovery.
Yes. An arm lift may be combined with procedures such as liposuction or breast surgery where appropriate. This can be discussed as part of your personalised surgical plan during your consultation, with careful consideration of safety, operative time and recovery.
Allowing yourself time to heal is an important part of your recovery following surgery. You will need to avoid lifting your arms above shoulder height during the early recovery period and avoid strenuous activity that places tension on the healing scars for approximately six weeks. A supportive compression garment is typically recommended for six weeks to support healing and optimise contour remodelling.
Scarring is a common concern for patients considering an arm lift, and it is important to review a range of post-operative photographs to understand the variation that can occur.
During an arm lift, scars are carefully planned and positioned along the inner arm, where they are as discreet as possible. Scars are initially more noticeable but typically fade and soften over 12 to 18 months. Dr Collins’ scar management protocol supports optimal scar maturation and long-term aesthetic results.
Most patients return to desk-based work within one to two weeks. More physically demanding roles may require a longer recovery period.
Driving is usually safe once you can comfortably turn the steering wheel, check blind spots, and perform an emergency stop without discomfort. This is typically around one to two weeks after surgery.
Gentle walking is encouraged early in recovery. More strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided for six to eight weeks to protect your surgical result. Dr Collins will provide a personalised return-to-exercise plan tailored to you.
Arm lift surgery is a well-established procedure. As with all surgery, there are risks involved. These include pain, bleeding, infection, delayed wound healing, adverse scarring, asymmetry, seroma, haematoma, changes in sensation, contour irregularities and the potential need for revision surgery. These risks are discussed in detail during your consultation.
Yes. Surgical outcomes vary between individuals and depend on a number of factors, including anatomy, tissue quality, healing response and adherence to post-operative care. Expected outcomes, risks and limitations are discussed in detail during your consultation as part of the informed consent process.
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