Arm lift (brachioplasty):
redefines the contour
and removes excess skin

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Arm lift
and removal of excess skin

Arm lift
Body contouring surgery to redefine the arm and remove excess skin.

MADRID | ZURICH

Over the years, subcutaneous fat deposits may increase and the skin on the arms tends to lose elasticity. As a result, the inner arm area may become flabbier and sag.

An arm lift, also known as brachioplasty, is a surgical procedure to remove excess skin and fat in this area, improving the contour of the arm and restoring a firmer and more proportionate appearance.

At our clinics in Madrid and Zurich, each case is analysed individually to determine the most appropriate technique. Depending on the patient's anatomy, the arm lift can be performed alone or combined with liposuction to improve the overall contour of the arm.

DURATION 1 - 2.5 hours
DISCHARGE FROM THE CLINIC The same day
RETURN TO WORK 7 - 10 days

DURATION 1 - 2.5 hours
DISCHARGE FROM THE CLINIC The same day
RETURN TO WORK 7 - 10 days

SOCIALLY PRESENTABLE 5 days
ANESTHESIA Sedation or general
FULL RECOVERY 4 weeks

SOCIALLY PRESENTABLE 5 days
ANESTHESIA Sedation or general
FULL RECOVERY 4 weeks

Indications

What an arm lift can improve

The arm lift is indicated when there is flaccidity or excess skin on the inside of the arms that does not improve with exercise or changes in body weight.

In selected patients, this surgery can help:

removing excess skin on the arms
improving the firmness of the inner arm area
reduce skin sagging
redefining the contour between shoulder, arm and armpit

When there is localised fat accumulation, the procedure can be combined with liposuction, allowing for a more complete contouring of the arm.

In which cases is brachioplasty recommended?

Not all alterations in the appearance of the arm require a facelift. This procedure is usually considered when the skin has lost its ability to retract naturally.

It is relatively common in patients who present with flaccidity on the inner side of the arms as a consequence of:

skin ageing
significant variations in weight
genetic predisposition to accumulate fat in this area

During the consultation, factors such as the quality of the skin, the distribution of fatty tissue and the degree of sagging are analysed to determine whether surgery is the most appropriate option.

Arm lift surgical techniques

In most cases, arm lifts are performed by combining liposuction with the removal of excess skin.

The surgeon assesses the silhouette of the arm and the excess tissue to determine the most appropriate technique. Depending on the case, it can be performed:

limited lifting, when excess skin is moderate
complete brachial lift, with incision on the inside of the arm
extended facelift, when there is greater skin sagging

In some cases, reinforced internal sutures are used, which help to improve tissue adaptation and promote skin contraction.

Scars

Location of scars after surgery

The location of the scar after an arm lift or brachioplasty depends mainly on the degree of flaccidity and the amount of skin that needs to be removed.

Depending on the case, different surgical approaches may be used:

• One-dimensional lifting
The scar is placed on the inner arm, generally from the armpit to an inconspicuous point on the arm, making sure that it is as inconspicuous as possible in most positions.

• Two-dimensional or semi-circular lifting
When there is more excess skin, the incision may extend around the armpit or cover part of the circumference of the arm. This location is strategically planned to eliminate sagging while keeping the scar as inconspicuous as possible.

To optimise the final appearance of scars, specialised suturing techniques and complementary dermatological treatments can be used to help improve the quality of healing over time.

Real case results
before and after arm lift

Arm lift:
Frequently Asked Questions

Can arm lifts help to slim the arms?

It is not designed for weight loss or to reduce overall arm volume. The arm lift is primarily used to remove excess skin and correct sagging.

Is there always a scar after brachioplasty?

Yes, the scar is part of the procedure, as it is necessary to remove excess skin. It is usually located on the inside of the arm so that it is as inconspicuous as possible.

When is it possible to sit down normally again?

The change in the contour of the arm is usually noticeable from the first few weeks, although initially there may be swelling. The final result is defined progressively as the tissues evolve.

Who might be a good candidate for brachioplasty surgery?

Arm lifts are often recommended for patients who have sagging or excess skin on the inner arm, especially after significant weight loss or with the passage of time.

Can it be combined with other procedures?

Yes, in some cases an arm lift may be combined with liposuction or other body contouring procedures to improve the overall proportion of the figure.

Dr. Richard Fakin
Internationally recognised plastic surgeon

Dr. Richard Fakin is a Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeon with extensive experience in gender-affirming procedures. He specialises in breast surgery, facial surgery and advanced body contouring procedures. His practice combines technical precision, aesthetic sensitivity and a deeply personalised approach to every procedure.

At his clinics in Madrid and Zurich, Dr. Fakin leads a highly professional and committed team of specialists who share the same philosophy: to provide medically rigorous care while maintaining a warm, compassionate approach. Each patient receives personalised support, from the first consultation through to postoperative follow-up.

As a boutique plastic surgery clinic, the approach is neither mass-market nor standardised. The team takes the necessary time to understand expectations, analyse the anatomy and design a surgical plan precisely adapted to each case. This structure allows for a high level of quality, confidentiality and attention to detail in every procedure.

Dr. Fakin employs refined surgical techniques that prioritize safety, natural-looking results, and optimized recovery. Meticulous planning and the use of advanced technology allow for harmonious results that reflect each individual's unique identity.

Beyond surgical technique, the commitment of Dr. Fakin and his team is reflected in transparent, honest and personalised care, where each patient is treated with dedication and professionalism at every stage of the process.