Arm Lift in Scottsdale, AZ

Dr. Jude LaBarbera offers arm lift surgery at our Scottsdale office. This procedure focuses on eliminating excess skin and tissue from the upper arms, making it especially popular among individuals who have experienced significant weight loss or those dealing with sagging due to aging or genetics. While exercise can tone muscles, it often cannot address the loose skin that remains. Dr. LaBarbera’s arm reshaping surgery helps both men and women achieve more toned and youthful-looking arms.

Throughout the entire process, from the initial consultation to the final stages of recovery, Dr. LaBarbera provides personalized care to meet each patient’s unique needs. Whether the sagging skin results from muscle loss, substantial weight reduction, or the natural aging process, Dr. LaBarbera will create a tailored treatment plan to achieve optimal results. Numerous patients in Scottsdale and nearby Arizona areas have reported high satisfaction with their outcomes.

Table Of Contents

What Is an Arm Lift?

An arm lift, also known as brachioplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to reshape and contour the upper arms. It addresses issues like sagging skin and bat wings, which often develop due to aging or massive weight loss. The procedure involves removing excess skin and targeting localized pockets of fat that create an untoned appearance. While not a weight loss surgery, it can significantly improve the arm’s overall shape and proportion. An arm lift takes about two to three hours to complete.

Types of Arm Lifts

Regular Arm Lift

A regular arm lift is the standard approach for addressing moderate to severe sagging along the upper arms. It involves an incision extending from the armpit to the elbow, allowing Dr. LaBarbera to remove loose skin and contour the underlying tissues. This technique is ideal for individuals with significant skin laxity and a noticeable lack of definition. The scar is usually placed along the inner arm to keep it discreet while achieving a more toned and proportional result. This procedure is often chosen after substantial weight changes or natural aging.

Mini Arm Lift

A mini arm lift is a less invasive option for those with mild to moderate sagging limited to the inner arm. The incision is smaller and typically located in the armpit area, making it easier to conceal. This procedure focuses on tightening a small area of skin without extensive tissue removal or repositioning. Because of its limited scope, the mini arm lift is best for patients with good skin elasticity and minimal excess tissue. It offers a more subtle improvement compared to other techniques.

Extended Arm Lift

An extended arm lift is designed for individuals with extensive excess skin and fat that stretches beyond the upper arms and into the side of the chest. This approach requires a longer incision that may continue along the side of the torso to achieve a smooth, balanced contour. It is commonly recommended after massive weight loss or in cases of extreme skin laxity. The extended arm lift offers comprehensive reshaping where a standard lift would fall short. It results in a more dramatic transformation, especially for those with significant tissue laxity.

FEATURED PATIENT GALLERIES

Planning Your Arm Lift Surgery

Preparation for an arm lift begins with a thorough consultation to evaluate medical history, discuss aesthetic goals, and determine candidacy based on health and weight status. Patients are typically expected to be at or near their goal weight, as significant fluctuations can affect the outcome. Dr. LaBarbera may order lab tests, adjust medications, and advise on lifestyle factors, such as smoking cessation. In the weeks leading up to the procedure, individuals receive detailed instructions regarding preoperative care, fasting, and what to expect on the day of surgery. Following these guidelines closely helps ensure a smoother surgical experience and recovery process.

Arm Lift Procedure:
A Step-by-Step Overview

Anesthesia

The arm lift procedure involves general anesthesia. This surgery typically lasts around two hours and is usually performed on an outpatient basis.

Liposuction (Optional)

After the incisions are made, liposuction may be used to remove excess fat from the upper arm region. Dr. LaBarbera uses a thin tube called a cannula to dislodge and suction stubborn fat deposits.

Incisions in the Upper Arms

The approach and length of the incision for an arm lift depend on the specific amount and location of excess skin. Incisions can be placed on the back or inner side of the arm.

Superficial Fascial System Suspension (Optional)

Superficial fascial system suspension (SFSS) is an advanced surgical technique that can be incorporated into an arm lift to enhance support and improve long-term results. This method involves securing the underlying connective tissue layer—the superficial fascial system—to help maintain the new contour of the arm. By reinforcing this internal structure, Dr. LaBarbera can reduce tension on the skin closure and potentially minimize the risk of sagging over time. It is typically used in cases where additional support is needed, especially after massive weight loss or when the skin has lost significant elasticity. While optional, this step can provide a more stable and aesthetically pleasing outcome.

Skin Tightening and Incision Closure

Following the contouring process, the skin is tightened, and the incisions are closed with absorbable sutures. Dr. Jude LaBarbera utilizes advanced surgical techniques to achieve the desired look while minimizing scarring.

Immediate Aftercare

Following the operation, patients will receive a compression garment to support the healing area. Initially, bruising and swelling are common but will diminish over time.

Recovery After Arm Lift Surgery

First 24 Hours

Immediately after brachioplasty surgery, patients are monitored as the effects of anesthesia wear off. The arms are wrapped in compression garments to reduce swelling and support the healing tissues. Mild discomfort, tightness, and limited arm mobility are expected during this time. Pain medication and detailed aftercare instructions are provided to help manage early recovery.

Week 1

During the first week, swelling and bruising are common but should gradually subside. Most patients can return to light daily activities within a few days, although lifting, reaching, or strenuous movement must be avoided. Follow-up appointments are typically scheduled to monitor healing and remove any non-absorbable sutures if used. Compression garments should be worn consistently as instructed.

Weeks 2–3

By this stage, discomfort usually lessens, and visible signs of bruising continue to fade. Swelling may persist, but should improve noticeably with proper care. Most patients feel well enough to resume non-strenuous work. However, upper body exercise and heavy lifting remain restricted. Scars begin to mature, and protecting them from sun exposure is essential.

Weeks 4–6

At four to six weeks post-surgery, healing is well underway, and patients are typically cleared to resume most normal activities, including moderate exercise. Residual swelling may still be present, but should be minimal. Compression garments may no longer be necessary depending on the surgeon’s evaluation. Long-term scar care can begin, focusing on reducing visibility and improving skin texture. Complete recovery may take up to 6 months.

Post-Operative Care Tips

Post-operative care is essential for a smooth recovery after an arm lift. Following our guidelines can help reduce complications, support healing, and ensure the best possible aesthetic outcome. Below are key care tips to follow after the procedure:

Complementary Procedures

Tummy Tuck

A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is often considered by arm lift patients who have experienced significant weight loss or seek comprehensive body contouring. This procedure removes loose abdominal skin and tightens the underlying muscles, helping to eliminate excess bulk in the midsection. Combined with an arm lift, it can create a more balanced and toned overall appearance. Performing both procedures during the same surgical session may reduce total recovery time.

Breast Lift

A breast lift is another complementary procedure commonly chosen by individuals with a significant amount of skin laxity in the upper body. It involves raising and reshaping the breasts by removing excess skin and tightening the surrounding tissue. Sometimes, a breast lift can be performed simultaneously with an arm lift to enhance symmetry and achieve a more youthful silhouette. This combination is especially popular after pregnancy, aging, or dramatic weight loss.

Candidates for an Arm Lift

Brachioplasty aims to tone and tighten the upper arm area. Candidates for this surgery often include those who:

Maintaining a stable weight through a healthy diet and regular exercise is essential for preserving the results of an arm lift, as substantial weight changes can reverse the effects. Overall good health is another critical factor for any surgical procedure. Dr. Jude LaBarbera will evaluate your medical history and determine if brachioplasty is the right option for you.

Benefits of an Arm Lift

Sagging in the upper arms can occur due to aging, weight changes, or genetics, affecting how the arms fit within the proportions of the human body. An arm lift is commonly chosen to refine the appearance of the upper arms and is often performed as an outpatient procedure with manageable downtime. The following are key benefits of this surgery:

Reduction of lax skin
Removal of unwanted fat
Improved arm contour and proportion
Smoother skin texture
Enhanced clothing fit
Increased comfort during movement
Boost in confidence and reduced self-consciousness
Balanced, natural-looking results

Arm Lift Cost in Scottsdale

The cost of an arm lift in Scottsdale ranges from $3,000 to $12,000. This price typically includes surgical fees, anesthesia, facility costs, and post-operative care. Factors such as the complexity of the procedure, whether liposuction is involved, and whether it is combined with other treatments can influence the final amount. Since brachioplasty is considered cosmetic, insurance generally does not cover it. Choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon experienced in arm contouring is essential for achieving safe, aesthetically pleasing results.

Schedule a consultation with Dr. LaBarbera to discuss all details of your arm lift treatment.

What Makes Our Plastic Surgery Different From Others?

What makes our plastic surgery different from others is our commitment to personalized care and attention to detail throughout every step of the process. We aim to understand each patient’s unique goals to deliver results that look natural and harmonious. Our surgical techniques are advanced and refined, ensuring safety and minimizing downtime. Our past patients’ positive feedback and satisfaction reflect our dedication to excellence and compassionate support from consultation to recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will there be any scars?

Like all surgeries involving incisions, brachioplasty will result in some scarring. However, Dr. LaBarbera takes every step to minimize scarring during the arm lift procedure. Although scars may be visible immediately post-surgery, they usually fade over time. Following Dr. LaBarbera’s scar care guidelines is essential for optimal healing. Patients should also avoid sun exposure for several months to aid recovery. Despite the potential for minor scarring, the benefits of arm lift surgery typically far outweigh this concern.

Arm lift or liposuction?

Many patients consider arm lift and liposuction options for toning the upper arms. During your initial consultation, Dr. Jude LaBarbera will perform a physical examination to determine your most suitable treatment plan. Arm liposuction is typically used to remove excess fat from the upper arms, but an arm lift is often necessary to tighten the skin and achieve a natural appearance. In cases where there is no excess fat, liposuction may not be required. Dr. LaBarbera will assess factors such as your skin’s elasticity, the amount of fat to be removed, and your desired outcome to plan an effective arm lift procedure tailored to your needs.

Can this be performed with other procedures?

To maximize the benefits of your visit, Dr. LaBarbera might recommend combining brachioplasty with another cosmetic procedure. Common pairings include a tummy tuck, breast lift, or liposuction. During your initial consultation with Dr. Jude LaBarbera, the possibility of combining an arm lift with other procedures will be discussed. This meeting is also an excellent chance to ask questions, share any concerns, and communicate your expectations to our surgeon.

What kind of arm lift results can I expect?

Brachioplasty aims to eliminate sagging skin, resulting in tighter and more toned upper arms. Once fully recovered, patients are encouraged to build muscle through strength training, but only with the surgeon’s approval. Maintaining arm lift results also involves a commitment to a healthy lifestyle, including a proper diet and regular exercise.

Does arm lift target the lower arms as well?

An arm lift generally focuses on the upper arms, where surgical intervention removes excess skin and fat most effectively. It does not typically address the lower arms, which usually do not experience the same degree of laxity or tissue excess. For concerns in the lower arm area, other treatments or approaches may be considered depending on the individual case.