The armlift or brachioplasty procedure is used to eliminate excess skin and fat under the arms. Surgery is performed to remove and effectively tighten the skin of the upper arms. Liposuction is sometimes used to remove fat from under the arm before the excess skin is excised. More about this procedure.

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In performing an armlift, an incision is made from the armpit to the elbow on the inside of the arm. Three layers of sutures are used: a deep layer of dissolving stitches, a middle layer of sutures to close the incision, and a top layer of light sutures to create a thin scar. Care is taken to avoid disturbing deeper layers of fat in order to protect the nerves, glands and veins of the arm.

Following surgery, a dressing is applied, and your arms are wrapped in elastic bandages, or a compression garment. Bruising and swelling will be marked for at least two weeks, and pain medication may be needed for the first few days. The compression garment you are given must be worn for a week. While most people return to work after a week, you should avoid lifting anything heavy until the incisions are fully healed.

Risks include swelling, bruising, bleeding, infection, scarring and numbness, which may be permanent.

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