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Definition Along the Upper Arm

An arm lift addresses excess skin and mild fat along the upper arm, a concern that often does not respond to exercise alone once the underlying skin has lost its elasticity. Dr. Tommaso Addona plans each arm lift in NYC around the specific trade-off between incision length and degree of correction, aiming for the least visible scar capable of achieving a lasting, well-defined result. Discuss with Dr. Addona which arm lift approach best balances your correction goals with scar placement.

What Is an Arm Lift?

An arm lift, or brachioplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and, when needed, fat from the upper arm, tightening the underlying tissue to create a more toned, defined contour. This concern is common following significant weight loss or as a natural result of aging and reduced skin elasticity.

Dr. Addona selects an incision approach based on the extent of correction needed, ranging from a shorter incision limited to the underarm area for more modest concerns, to a longer incision extending along the inner arm for patients with more significant excess skin.

Liposuction is often incorporated as well, when additional fat contouring would enhance the final result. Because the incision is placed along the inner arm, it typically remains far less visible in everyday positions than patients often expect.

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Benefits of an Arm Lift

An arm lift can meaningfully improve the appearance and comfort of the upper arms, offering benefits such as:

  • Removal of excess, loose skin along the upper arm
  • A more toned, defined arm contour
  • Improved comfort in fitted clothing and sleeves
  • The option to incorporate liposuction for additional contouring
  • Long-lasting results with stable weight maintenance
  • An incision placed along the less visible inner arm

Are You a Candidate for an Arm Lift?

Ideal candidates are healthy adults with loose, hanging skin along the upper arm that has not improved with exercise, often following significant weight loss or as a result of aging. Candidates should be at a stable weight prior to surgery for the most durable results.

During your consultation for arm lift surgery in NYC, Greenwich, & Westchester County, Dr. Addona will evaluate the degree of skin laxity and the amount of correction needed to determine whether a shorter or more extensive incision approach is appropriate, along with whether liposuction should be incorporated into your procedure.

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What to Expect During Your Arm Lift Procedure

Every arm lift begins with a detailed consultation, during which Dr. Addona evaluates your arm anatomy and discusses the incision approach best suited to your degree of correction.

The Procedure

Arm lift surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia or deep sedation and usually takes one to two hours, depending on the extent of skin removal and whether liposuction is included. Dr. Addona removes excess skin along the inner arm, tightening the underlying tissue to restore a firmer, more defined contour. Careful incision planning is central to achieving a result where the visible improvement outweighs the appearance of the resulting scar.

After Surgery

Most patients return home the same day. Dr. Addona remains personally accessible throughout recovery, closely monitoring healing.

What Do Arm Lift (Brachioplasty) Scars Look Like? youtube screenshot

What Do Arm Lift (Brachioplasty) Scars Look Like? Incision Placement & Healing

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Compression Garments After Arm Lift (Brachioplasty): Reducing Post-Op Swelling

I wish to thank Dr. Tommaso Addona. The procedure was to remove the saline from my breast implants. The surgery was excellent, he was gentle and made sure I was not in any unbearable pain. I knew I was in great hands. His bedside manner is exemplary, and he is skilled at his job. I know in my heart I made the correct choice in choosing Dr. Addona to solve my problem. He gave me great tranquility when I met him. His staff is very pleasant and friendly.

JJ Harris

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Recovery & Results After Your Arm Lift

Recovery from an arm lift generally follows a predictable path, though it varies somewhat based on the extent of the incision used.

The First Two Weeks

Swelling, tightness, and mild discomfort are common initially. Most patients feel comfortable resuming light activities within one to two weeks, with restrictions on lifting and strenuous arm movement for a longer period.

The Following Weeks

Swelling continues to resolve gradually over the following several weeks, allowing the final arm contour to become clearer as the incision continues to heal.

Long-Term Results

Final results are typically apparent within a few months, once swelling has fully resolved and the scar has begun to mature and fade. With stable weight maintenance, results tend to remain firm for many years.

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Why Choose Dr. Addona?

Balancing meaningful correction against a well-placed, discreet scar requires the same careful surgical judgment Dr. Addona applies throughout his practice. He personally evaluates every arm lift candidate, selecting the least invasive incision capable of achieving a lasting, well-defined result rather than defaulting to a single standard technique.

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Arm Lift Frequently Asked Questions

Will the scar from an arm lift be very visible?

The incision is placed along the inner arm, an area that is far less visible in daily life than most patients expect, though scar visibility does depend on the extent of correction needed.

Can an arm lift be combined with liposuction?

Yes. Liposuction is frequently incorporated into arm lift surgery to achieve additional contouring alongside the removal of excess skin.

How long do arm lift results typically last?

Results are generally long-lasting, particularly with stable weight maintenance, since significant future weight changes can affect the arm contour over time.

Is an arm lift painful?

Most patients describe tightness and soreness rather than significant pain, both of which are well managed with the recovery guidance Dr. Addona provides.

Will I need to restrict arm movement after surgery?

Yes, temporarily. Most patients are asked to limit lifting and strenuous arm activity for several weeks to support proper healing of the incision.

Is an arm lift only for patients who have lost significant weight?

No. While common after weight loss, an arm lift can also benefit patients experiencing skin laxity due to aging or genetics, without a history of major weight change.

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