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An arm lift, also known as brachioplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to remove excess skin from the backs of the arms.
At Skinnotion, arm lift surgery is performed by Dr Peter Tran, MED0001668228, General Registration.
Individual results vary and are not guaranteed. Outcomes depend on factors including skin elasticity, healing, and post-operative care.
How Does Arm Lift Surgery Work?
Due to ageing and gravity, or following significant weight loss, the skin in the arm region can stretch beyond its ability to retract, even after the underlying weight change has resolved. Brachioplasty addresses this by surgically removing excess skin and closing the incision with sutures, so that the remaining tissue heals in a tighter, flatter position.
How Do I Prepare For
Arm Lift Surgery?
You should be in good physical health prior to surgery, and at a stable weight, as further weight change can affect the outcome. A thorough physical and psychological evaluation is conducted prior to any surgical procedure. Your doctor will advise on medications to be ceased beforehand, including herbal supplements such as ginkgo and St John’s Wort. You will be required to stop smoking or vaping for several weeks prior to your procedure, and you may be prescribed antibiotics ahead of surgery.
We recommend preparing a recovery space at home with bedding, ice packs and a thermometer, and arranging for a support person to stay with you for the first 24 hours. Compression garments will be provided and must be worn as directed, and strenuous activity or heavy lifting must be avoided during recovery.
Most patients experience soreness, swelling and bruising in the arms for around two weeks following surgery. Your recovery timeline, including time off work and when normal activity can resume, will be discussed in detail during your consultation.
What Are The Risks
Of Arm Lift Surgery?
As with all surgical procedures, risks include wound infection, pain around the incision sites, and scarring. Other risks include:
- Haematoma at the incision site/s
- Blood clotting leading to heart complications
- Nausea due to anaesthetic
- Temporary numbness or loss of sensation at the operated site/s
- Difficulty with certain movements or stretches due to highly tightened skin
- Excess fluid (seroma) accumulating around the incision sites that may require drainage
- Deep venous thrombosis
- Allergic reaction to anaesthesia
- Allergic reaction to sutures or other medical materials
- This list is not exhaustive. All risks will be discussed in full during your consultation.
What to Expect from Your Consultation
In line with Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) and Medical Board requirements:
- GP Referral: Obtain a referral from an independent GP before surgical consultation.
- Two Consultations: At least two consultations are required before consent can be given. One must be in person.
- Cooling-off Period: A mandatory waiting period helps ensure your decision is fully informed.
- Informed Consent: You’ll receive detailed information about risks, benefits, alternatives and expected outcomes before signing consent.
- Screening: Psychological screening (e.g., for body image concerns) may be part of the preparation to ensure suitability.
These measures are in place to prioritise patient safety, informed decision-making, and appropriate care.
Ask A Question
If you are considering surgery, the first step is a consultation with our medical team.
Surgical consultations require a GP referral and adherence to current AHPRA consultation standards.
Schedule Consultation
Unsure about the treatment? Our experts are here to help. Get a consult with the leading specialists in the Brachioplasty in Sydney. Expect a response within 24 hours.