Brachioplasty (arm lift surgery)

What is brachioplasty (arm lift surgery)?

Brachioplasty, often called an ‘arm lift’, ‘arm reduction’, ‘bingo wings removal’, or ‘arm fat removal surgery’, is a body contouring procedure that reshapes the upper arms by removing loose skin and unwanted fat. You may want to consider this treatment if you feel self-conscious or embarrassed about how your arms look, especially after weight loss, ageing or changes in skin elasticity. It’s important to know that an arm lift leaves visible scars, usually extending from the armpit to the elbow.

There are several types of brachioplasty, from mini arm lifts to extended procedures for more significant excess skin. Liposuction may also be used to refine the shape of the arm. The best candidates are usually close to their ideal weight and have enough loose skin to achieve a smooth, natural-looking result.

What can arm lift surgery help with?

You may consider arm lift surgery for a variety of reasons – either cosmetic, practical or a mix of both.

Cosmetic reasons:

• Loose or hanging skin (“bingo wings”).
• Loss of arm definition.
• Stubborn fat that doesn’t respond to diet or exercise.
• Skin sagging after weight loss.
• Desire for a more toned, balanced arm shape (However, older skin or skin that has been stretched out from weight loss might lose a little bit of its tightness again.)

Medical reasons:

• Skin irritation or rashes caused by excess skin.
• Difficulty maintaining hygiene.
• Restricted movement due to heavy or sagging skin.

What are the alternatives to brachioplasty (arm lift surgery)?

Non-surgical treatments may help with mild skin looseness or small pockets of fat, including:

• Radiofrequency skin tightening.
• Ultrasound therapy.
• Laser treatments.
• Liposuction alone, if you have good natural skin tone (for fat removal without skin tightening).

These options can offer subtle improvements, but they cannot remove significant excess skin. Most people explore arm lift surgery when lifestyle changes such as healthy eating, exercise or wearing long sleeves no longer give them the results they want. If you haven’t tried these approaches, it’s worth discussing them with your consultant (surgeon) first.

What’s the difference between arm lift surgery and arm liposuction?

• Arm liposuction: This removes fat, but it won’t tighten loose skin — in fact, removing the fat can actually make sagging skin look worse.
• Arm lift surgery (brachioplasty): Removes excess skin and may include liposuction for a smoother, more defined shape.

Your consultant (surgeon) will help you understand which option best suits your goals and skin type.

How can I prepare for arm lift surgery?

Your consultant will guide you through every step, but preparation often includes:

• Stopping smoking and vaping at least 6 weeks before the surgery, as nicotine delays healing.
• Maintaining a healthy, stable weight.
• Avoid shaving or waxing the upper arms for one week before surgery.
• Taking a bath or shower on the day of your operation.

These steps can help reduce the risk of complications and support a smoother recovery.

What should I expect during a brachioplasty (arm lift surgery)?

Brachioplasty is usually performed under general anaesthesia and takes around 90 minutes to 2 hours.

During the procedure:

• A carefully placed incision is made between the elbow and armpit (shorter for a mini arm lift).
• Excess skin and fat are removed.
• The remaining tissues are tightened to create a smoother, firmer contour.
• Fine stitches are used to close the incision.
• Dressings and elastic bandages are applied.
• Small drains may be used temporarily to remove excess fluid.

If needed, liposuction may be performed at the same time to refine the shape of the upper arm.

How long does it take to recover after brachioplasty (arm lift surgery)?

You may need to stay in the hospital for around 1 to 2 days after your arm lift surgery. Your recovery is a gradual process, and it’s completely normal to feel tender or swollen at first.

You can expect:

• Pain or discomfort during the first week (managed with medication).
• A compression garment for several weeks to support healing.
• Swelling and bruising that slowly improve.
• A return to work after around 2 weeks, depending on your job.
• Avoid strenuous activity until your surgeon advises otherwise.
• If you have both arms treated at the same time will temporarily limit your movement, making everyday tasks like bathing, dressing, and self-care quite challenging."

To make your recovery as smooth as possible, it is often recommended to have an arm lift performed one side at a time, spaced about a month apart. However, if you choose to have both arms treated at once, it is essential to have a friend or family member stay with you for the first week or two. Your hands and forearms will be snugly bandaged to manage swelling and protect the nerves in your wrist, making routine tasks—like bathing, eating, and using the bathroom—nearly impossible to do on your own.

Scarring: Scars are permanent but usually fade significantly over 9–12 months, becoming flatter and lighter.

Long-term results: Arm lift results are designed to be long-lasting. Maintaining a stable weight and active lifestyle will help preserve your outcome. Natural ageing may still cause some changes over time, but the improvement is typically long-term.

What should I avoid after arm lift surgery?

For 6 to 8 weeks after your surgery, you should avoid:

• Heavy lifting
• Strenuous exercise
• Smoking
• Tight clothing that rubs against the incisions.

Your surgeon will give you personalised guidance based on your healing.

What are the risks and complications of brachioplasty (arm lift surgery)?

Every surgical procedure has a risk of complications. Your consultant and healthcare team will discuss all the risks and complications of labiaplasty at your initial consultation.

• Pain
• Bleeding
• Infection
• Blood clots
• Scarring
• Asymmetry of the upper arms
• Numbness of the skin

How much does brachioplasty (arm lift surgery) cost at Nuffield Health?

For pricing information, please contact your local hospital. The hospital or your healthcare team will give you a fixed all-inclusive price for the treatment following your initial consultation.

Making the right decision

Choosing to have cosmetic surgery is a personal decision, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. All Nuffield Health cosmetic surgeons are fully registered and experienced in body contouring procedures.

We encourage you to share your goals openly with your consultant so you have a clear understanding of what’s realistically achievable. You will never be pressured into making a decision.