Sagging or loose upper arms can be difficult to tone, even with consistent exercise and weight control. This condition often results from aging or significant weight loss and can leave you feeling self-conscious. Arm lift surgery (brachioplasty) is a safe and effective solution that removes excess skin and fat to restore a firmer, more contoured upper arm shape.
At Tara Healthcare in Bangalore, arm lift surgery is performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon using advanced surgical techniques, personalized planning, and post-operative care that prioritizes safety and natural-looking results.
What Is Arm Lift Surgery?
Arm lift surgery, also known as brachioplasty, is a cosmetic procedure designed to:
- Remove loose, hanging skin from the upper arms
- Reduce stubborn fat deposits
- Reshape and firm the arm contour by tightening underlying tissues
It is especially beneficial for patients who:
- Have experienced massive weight loss
- Have age-related skin laxity
- Are unable to achieve toned arms through exercise alone
Who is it For?
Ideal candidates for an arm lift include those who:
- Have stable body weight and good overall health
- Are bothered by sagging skin or fat on the upper arms
- Do not smoke or are willing to stop temporarily before and after surgery
- Have realistic expectations about the outcomes and scarring
A consultation at Tara Healthcare includes a thorough evaluation of your goals, skin condition, and health to determine suitability and the most effective surgical approach.
Types of Arm Lift Surgery
1. Standard Arm Lift
An incision is made from the armpit to the elbow. Best for moderate to severe excess skin.
2. Mini Arm Lift
Involves a smaller incision limited to the underarm. Suitable for mild sagging.
3. Extended Arm Lift
The incision continues along the side of the chest wall. Often used after massive weight loss.
4. Liposuction-Assisted Arm Lift
Fat is removed through liposuction in combination with skin tightening. Ideal when skin has moderate elasticity.
How the Surgery Is Performed
- Anesthesia: General anesthesia or intravenous sedation
- Incisions: Hidden on the inside or back of the arm to reduce visibility
- Fat removal: Liposuction may be used for enhanced contouring
- Tissue tightening: Internal sutures support and lift underlying tissues
- Duration: Approximately 2–3 hours
- Recovery: Usually outpatient; patients return home the same day
Surgery at Tara Healthcare is performed in accredited operating rooms with strict sterilization protocols and a focus on minimizing scarring.
Recovery Timeline & Post-Operative Care Tips
Week 1:
- Wear a compression garment to reduce swelling
- Keep arms elevated when resting to minimize fluid retention
- Take prescribed pain medications as directed
- Avoid lifting or raising arms overhead
- Attend your first follow-up with Dr. Karan Shetty
Weeks 2–4:
- Bruising and swelling begin to subside
- Resume desk work or non-strenuous activities
- Continue wearing compression garments
- Avoid exercise and arm-intensive movements
Weeks 5–8:
- Most swelling resolves
- Begin gentle stretching if advised
- Gradually return to physical activity
Ongoing:
- Follow a scar care protocol (see below)
- Protect incision sites from direct sun exposure
- Attend scheduled follow-ups for optimal healing monitoring
Scarring: What to Expect and How to Minimize It
Scarring is a natural part of arm lift surgery, but it can be managed effectively:
Scar Care Tips:
- Use silicone gel or silicone sheeting to flatten and fade scars
- Massage scars daily (after incision is fully closed)
- Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 50+) to prevent darkening
- Avoid smoking, which can worsen scarring
Over time (6–12 months), most scars fade significantly and become less noticeable.
Before and After Expectations
Before Surgery:
- You may have loose, hanging skin or bulky upper arms that do not respond to exercise
- Clothing choices may feel limited due to self-consciousness
After Surgery:
- Arms appear leaner, smoother, and more proportionate to your body
- Skin is firmer and contoured
- Scars are placed inconspicuously and fade over time
- Confidence in wearing sleeveless or fitted clothing is often restored
Results are long-lasting when paired with a healthy lifestyle and stable weight.
What About the Cost?
The cost of arm lift surgery depends on various factors, including:
- The extent of sagging
- Whether liposuction is involved
- The complexity of the procedure
- Facility and anesthesia fees
At Tara Healthcare, a transparent estimate is shared after your consultation, ensuring complete clarity with no hidden charges.
Related Procedures
Many patients combine or follow up arm lift surgery with other body contouring procedures, such as:
- Liposuction in Bangalore – Remove stubborn fat pockets for more defined contours
- Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) – Tighten the abdominal area for a flatter, firmer midsection
- Thigh Lift – Improve the contour and tone of the inner and outer thighs
These procedures are often part of post-weight-loss body reshaping and are planned strategically by Dr. Karan Shetty for best results.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How long do the results of an arm lift last?
Arm lift results are long-lasting, especially when combined with a stable weight and healthy lifestyle. Natural aging may eventually affect skin firmness.
2. Will I have visible scars after an arm lift?
Yes, but they are usually placed in discreet locations on the inside or back of the arm. With proper care, they fade significantly over time.
3. Is arm lift surgery painful?
Mild to moderate discomfort is expected in the first week, but it is manageable with prescribed pain medication.
4. Can I combine an arm lift with other procedures?
Yes. Arm lifts are often combined with liposuction, tummy tuck, or thigh lift, especially after major weight loss.
5. How soon can I return to work after surgery?
Most patients return to desk jobs within 10–14 days. Strenuous activities should be avoided for 4–6 weeks.
6. Are there non-surgical alternatives to an arm lift?
Non-surgical treatments (like radiofrequency or ultrasound) can offer mild tightening but are not a replacement for surgery in cases of moderate to severe sagging.
7. What is the ideal age for an arm lift?
There is no ideal age. Suitability depends on your skin quality, goals, and overall health rather than age alone.
8. Will I need drains after arm lift surgery?
Drains may be used depending on the extent of the procedure. Dr. Karan Shetty will explain this during your consultation.
9. How do I prepare for the surgery?
You may be asked to stop smoking, adjust medications, and undergo pre-op evaluations. Detailed prep instructions will be provided.
10. Can men undergo arm lift surgery?
Yes. Men with significant upper arm skin laxity or fat can also benefit from arm lift procedures.
Why Choose Tara Healthcare?
- ✅ Board-certified expertise: Dr. Karan Shetty is trained internationally and specializes in aesthetic body contouring
- ✅ Patient-centric approach: Individualized surgical plans with full education and aftercare
- ✅ Modern infrastructure: Advanced OT setup and recovery rooms
- ✅ Transparent communication: Clear discussions around expectations, safety, and results
About Dr. Karan Shetty
Dr. Karan Shetty is a board-certified plastic, aesthetic, and reconstructive surgeon based in Bangalore. With over 10 years of experience and specialized training from Germany, Japan, and Spain, he is renowned for his expertise in liposuction, rhinoplasty, breast surgeries, gynecomastia surgery, and body contouring.
He is the Chief Consultant at Tara Healthcare and an esteemed member of KAPRAS, ISAPS, and IAAPS. Dr. Karan Shetty is dedicated to providing personalized, safe, and natural-looking results that enhance both appearance and confidence.
Take the first step to sculpted, youthful arms with Tara Healthcare’s expert arm lift surgery.
Contact Tara Healthcare
Phone: +91 77607 00133
Email: info@tarahealthcare.co.in
Location: No. 681, Ground Floor, 10th A Main Road, 4th Block Jayanagar, Bengaluru – 560011