Arm lift

Hiding your arms because the skin has become loose and wrinkled can be a daily source of self-consciousness. An arm lift, also known as brachioplasty, is a procedure that helps restore firmer, more harmonious contours, offering renewed freedom in clothing choices and greater self-confidence.

Summary

Duration

Around 2 hours

Hospital stay

Outpatient or 1 night

Anesthesia

General

Social downtime

10 to 15 days

Time off work

1 week

Scars

Longitudinal discreet on the inner arms

Summary

Duration

Around 2 hours

Hospital stay

Outpatient or 1 night

Anesthesia

General

Social downtime

10 to 15 days

Time off work

1 week

Scars

Longitudinal discreet on the inner arms

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General information

Over time, the skin naturally loses elasticity, and certain areas of the body are more prone to sagging. The arms, particularly their posterior and lower aspects, are often affected. This phenomenon may be accentuated by weight fluctuations or genetic predisposition. When the skin becomes lax and excess fat is present, it can lead to both aesthetic and functional discomfort.

Brachioplasty, or arm lifting, is an effective solution to reshape the arms and restore a more toned silhouette. Unlike physical exercise, which strengthens muscles without acting on excess skin, this body contouring surgery is the only way to effectively remove redundant skin. The procedure aims not only to remove excess skin, but also to restore a harmonious shape to the arms according to each individual’s wishes.

Indications

Excess skin and fat in the arm area, between the armpit and the elbow, creating a “bat wing” effect, is a good indication for an arm lift. This condition is often more pronounced after significant weight loss. In a few rare cases, only the upper third of the arm near the armpit is wrinkled. In such situations, treatment may be performed with a scar hidden in the axillary fold. However, in most cases, an incision placed along the inner aspect of the arm, in a discreet area, is necessary to achieve an optimal result. The decision regarding the length and location of the scar depends on the degree of skin laxity and individual expectations.

If you wish to benefit from a personalised consultation with Dr Marianne Prevot.

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Technique

Initial arm liposuction helps prepare the result and sculpt the fatty tissue of the arm. I then remove the superficial excess skin using a dermal rolling technique. This approach restores muscle definition and helps prevent scar widening through dermo-dermal adherence.

The art of lifting lies in correcting without transforming, with meticulous attention to detail to ensure a natural outcome.

Procedure

An arm lift is performed under general anesthesia in the operating room and usually requires one night in the clinic. The procedure lasts approximately two hours. Before surgery, precise markings are made to clearly define the areas to be corrected and to ensure a balanced and harmonious result.

The procedure is carried out with rigor and delicacy, with a constant pursuit of excellence.

Postoperative course

Wearing a compression sleeve is essential during the first week to limit swelling and optimize healing. Pain is generally moderate and mainly occurs when raising the arms. These movements, as well as driving, should be avoided for one week. Simple analgesics such as paracetamol are sufficient to relieve postoperative discomfort. Swelling and bruising usually resolve within two to three weeks.

Scars are closely monitored with appropriate care to promote optimal healing. Specific recommendations regarding sun exposure and moisturizing care are also provided to enhance the final result.

Returning to work is usually possible after one week, while sports activities can be considered after 4 to 6 weeks.

Results

The arms become slimmer, more sculpted, and free from excess skin that previously moved with each motion. The first results are visible as soon as the swelling disappears, but the final appearance can be appreciated after a few months, once the skin has fully adapted to the new silhouette.

The scar is very fine, and the healing process, which lasts about one year, must be carefully monitored to avoid any alteration. With proper postoperative care and tailored recommendations, it becomes discreet and well integrated into the natural shape of the arm.

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DR marianne prevot

Aesthetic surgeon in Geneva

Dr Marianne prevot is a plastic surgeon in Geneva specializing in aesthetic reconstructive pediatric and dermatologic surgery. With more than 20 years of experience she combines medical expertise scientific commitment and a human centered approach.

Her practice is based on harmony between body and mind with an ethical and balanced vision of surgery.