Arm Lift (Brachioplasty) Fort Lauderdale
with Dr. ThomassenWhat Is a Brachioplasty (Arm Lift Surgery)?
Arm Lift or Brachioplasty is a cosmetic surgery that targets the upper arms to remove loose, sagging skin and fat. Using strategic incisions, the surgeon excises excess tissue, often combines liposuction, and recontours the arms for a more toned appearance.
If you’re bothered by loose skin or stubborn fat on your upper arms, an arm lift in Fort Lauderdale may be the ideal solution. At Thomassen Plastic Surgery, we specialize in brachioplasty—a surgical procedure that reshapes and tightens the upper arms to create smoother, more youthful contours.
Why Choose an Arm Lift?
Sagging upper arm skin, often called “bat wings,” can result from weight loss, aging, or genetics—and it doesn’t always respond to diet or exercise. A brachioplasty:
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Removes excess skin and fat
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Enhances upper arm shape from armpit to elbow
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Improves clothing fit and appearance
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Restores confidence in sleeveless styles
Types of Arm Lift Procedures
1. Standard Brachioplasty
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Full-length incision from armpit to elbow
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Ideal for patients with moderate to severe skin laxity
2. Mini Arm Lift (Short-Scar Brachioplasty)
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Small incision hidden in the armpit
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Best for patients with mild excess skin
3. Extended Arm Lift
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Removes tissue from upper arms and lateral chest wall
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Designed for massive weight loss patients
4. Liposuction-Assisted Arm Lift
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Combines liposuction with excisional surgery
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Improves contour while minimizing tissue trauma
- In many cases, Dr. Thomassen will perform liposuction during your arm lift to remove localized fat deposits. A thin cannula is inserted through the arm lift incision to sculpt the arm and ensure symmetrical contouring.
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Who Is a Good Candidate for an Arm Lift in Fort Lauderdale?
You may be a good candidate if you:
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Have loose or sagging upper arm skin
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Are at or near your goal weight
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Are in good health and a non-smoker
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Have realistic expectations for recovery and results
Post-weight loss patients or individuals experiencing age-related skin laxity often benefit most from this procedure.
Your Consultation with Dr. Thomassen
During your personalized consultation, Dr. Thomassen will:
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Review your medical history, prior surgeries, medications, and lifestyle
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Perform a physical exam to assess your skin tone, fat distribution, and elasticity
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Recommend the most effective brachioplasty technique for your needs
Arm Lift Techniques: Incision Placement
Depending on your body and procedure type, different incision options include:
- Short-Scar Arm Lift (Axillary Incision)
- Scar hidden in the armpit
- Best for minimal skin laxity
- Inner Arm Incision
- Scar placed in the natural bicep-tricep crease
- Discreet and well-hidden
- Posterior (Back of Arm) Incision
- Scar placed on the underside of the arm
- Preferred for minimal visibility
Incision Closure & Dressings
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Incisions are closed with dissolvable sutures that absorb in 4–6 weeks
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A sterile dressing and elastic compression garment are applied immediately post-op to minimize swelling and fluid buildup
Brachioplasty Results
You’ll notice immediate improvements in arm shape, although swelling and bruising may temporarily obscure the final result. By 4–6 weeks, your arms will look smoother, firmer, and more defined.
View our Before & After Arm Lift Gallery to see real patient results. You can learn more about arm lifts in the American Society of Plastic Surgeons website.
Frequently Asked Questions About Arm Lifts
Q: Will I have visible scarring?
A: Yes, but scars are placed in discreet locations and fade with proper care.
Q: Is liposuction included?
A: Yes, if needed for contouring, liposuction is performed through the same incision.
Q: How soon can I raise my arms?
A: Gentle movement within a few days; full lifting allowed after 4–6 weeks.