Body contouring
Brachioplasty (Arm Lift) in London
A brachioplasty, or arm lift, removes excess skin from the upper arm — most often after significant weight loss, where loose skin remains and liposuction alone would not be enough.
Take this away with you — view this information as a printable fact sheet or download the PDF, to read at home or share with your family. It supports, but does not replace, your consultation with Miss Hunter.
About an arm lift
Is it for me?
Brachioplasty suits patients with loose upper-arm skin where tightening the skin envelope is the goal. Where there is more fat than excess skin, liposuction may be considered instead or alongside.
The procedure and scar
Excess skin is taken from the upper inner arm, above the elbow, and the arm contour is tightened; the length of the scar depends on how much skin is involved. The scar usually runs lengthways down the inner aspect of the upper arm and, where more skin is involved, can extend towards the armpit. Held by your sides, the arms keep the scar largely out of view; it becomes visible when the arm is raised. The aim is a firmer arm contour and sleeves that fit more comfortably, and Miss Hunter talks the scar trade-off through with you at consultation.
A mini brachioplasty may occasionally be suitable when the excess skin is limited to the uppermost part of the arm. This uses a shorter scar confined to the armpit area. However, it provides a more limited correction and only a small proportion of patients are suitable for it. Miss Hunter will advise whether this approach is appropriate during consultation.
Recovery and risks
Generally arm lifts are performed as a day case, and a compressive sleeve will need to be worn for six weeks day and night. Walking can be recommenced straight away, but heavy lifting, driving and the gym (especially upper-body work) typically should be avoided for six weeks.
Risks can include scarring, delayed healing, fluid collection, asymmetry, nerve-related symptoms, stiffness, small areas of bunched skin (‘dog ears’) and, occasionally, revision. These are discussed at consultation.
Miss Hunter has an extensive library of before-and-after photographs of her own patients. These are reviewed during consultation rather than shown publicly, so that patient confidentiality is protected and relevant examples can be chosen for your individual discussion.
Common questions about arm lift
Where will the scar be, and will it show?
The scar usually runs lengthways down the inner aspect of the upper arm and, where more skin is involved, can extend towards the armpit. Held by your sides, the arms keep the scar largely out of view; it becomes visible when the arm is raised. The aim is a firmer arm contour and sleeves that fit more comfortably, and Miss Hunter talks the scar trade-off through with you at consultation.
How do I know if I am suitable?
Suitability is assessed by Miss Hunter at consultation, taking account of your aims, medical background, anatomy and what is realistically possible. Sophie can tell you whether an enquiry is the kind of work Miss Hunter takes on before you book.
Will I see before-and-after photographs?
Yes — during consultation. Relevant examples from Miss Hunter’s own patient library are reviewed with you privately. They are not published online, for confidentiality.
What does recovery involve?
Generally arm lifts are performed as a day case, and a compressive sleeve is worn for six weeks day and night. Walking can be resumed straight away, but heavy lifting, driving and the gym (especially upper-body work) should typically be avoided for six weeks. Individual advice is given by Miss Hunter around your surgery.
Who do I contact afterwards?
Sophie coordinates queries before and after surgery and escalates to Miss Hunter directly where clinical input is needed.
Make an enquiry
Speak with Sophie Freud
Sophie, our Practice Manager, is the first person you’ll speak to. She coordinates enquiries, appointments, fees and practical arrangements, and stays a familiar point of contact before and after surgery.
