An arm lift, or brachioplasty, is a transformative contouring procedure designed to refine the shape of the upper arms. Weight fluctuations, aging, or genetics can lead to sagging skin that cannot be corrected with exercise alone. An arm lift restores a smoother, tighter, more refined appearance, helping your arms look firmer, more youthful, and naturally proportionate.
What Is Arm Lift Surgery?
An arm lift, or brachioplasty, reshapes the upper arm by removing excess skin and, when needed, refining underlying fat to improve definition. The procedure targets loose or hanging skin, often referred to as “bat wings”, that results from aging, weight loss, or decreased skin elasticity. The result is a smoother, slimmer arm contour that appears more toned and balanced with the rest of the body.
How Is an Arm Lift Performed?
Brachioplasty is performed under general anesthesia in an accredited surgical facility. Depending on your degree of skin laxity, Dr. Franck may use a limited-incision technique confined to the armpit or a full-length incision along the inner arm to achieve optimal tightening. Excess skin is removed, underlying tissues are reshaped, and liposuction may be used to further contour the area. Incisions are placed strategically along the inner arm to maintain discreet visibility. Layered suturing supports the new contour, and a compression garment is applied to minimize swelling and promote smooth healing.




Smoother, Tighter Arm Contour
An arm lift eliminates sagging skin, restoring a firmer, more sculpted appearance that looks naturally toned and refined.
Improved Proportions and Confidence
With a slimmer, more balanced arm shape, clothing fits better, and many patients feel more confident wearing sleeveless clothing again.
Long-Lasting Results
Once excess skin is removed, results are long-lasting, especially with a stable weight and healthy lifestyle. comfort.
Good Candidates for Brachioplasty
You may be a good candidate for a brachioplasty if you:
Loose or hanging skin on the upper arms
Skin laxity after weight loss
Excess fat that does not respond to exercise
Good overall health and stable weight
Realistic expectations about scars and healing
During your consultation, Dr. Franck evaluates skin elasticity, fat distribution, and arm proportions to determine the ideal technique for your goals.
Why Choose Dr. Franck for Your
Arm Lift?
Dr. Philipp Franck is a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon with extensive experience in body contouring procedures, including arm lift surgery. His approach emphasizes refined, natural-looking results while maintaining safety and precision.
Castle Connolly Top Doctor (since 2023)
New York Times Magazine Rising Star Surgeon (since 2022)
Clinical Assistant Professor at Weill Cornell Medicine
Expertise in post-weight-loss and aesthetic body contouring
Each arm lift is customized to enhance symmetry, definition, and long-term aesthetic harmony.
Surgical Expertise & Recognition
Dr. Franck combines advanced technique with deep anatomical knowledge, earning recognition as one of NYC’s rising stars in plastic surgery.
Refined, Natural Aesthetics
Dr. Franck’s approach to natural body contouring focuses on balance and harmony.
Boutique Experience in Manhattan
Every consultation and procedure is tailored to you, with the highest level of privacy, comfort, and personalized care in an elegant Manhattan setting.
Arm Lift Surgery Timeline
1. Private Consultation
Dr. Franck assesses skin laxity, tissue quality, and your aesthetic goals, determining whether a limited or full-length incision technique is best.
2. Surgery
On the day of surgery, precise markings guide skin removal and contour refinement for a balanced, natural shape.
3. Early Recovery (Week 1)
Expect swelling, tightness, and mild discomfort. A compression garment supports the arms, and most patients resume light activities within several days.
4. Refinement Phase (Weeks 2–6)
Bruising fades, swelling decreases, and arm contour becomes more defined. Most patients return to work in 1–2 weeks and gradually resume exercise as advised.
5. Long-Term Results (Months 3–6)
Scars mature and soften, and the final refined contour becomes fully visible. With stable weight, results are long-lasting and transformative
Arm Lift
Brachioplasty
FAQs
Results are long-lasting. As long as your weight remains stable and skin quality is maintained, the refined contour typically endures for many years.
Non-surgical tightening can improve mild laxity but cannot remove significant excess skin. Surgery remains the most effective solution for dramatic improvement.
Brachioplasty requires a visible scar along the inner arm. However, it typically fades well over time and is placed to be as discreet as possible.
Liposuction can remove fat but cannot tighten excess skin. Patients with poor skin elasticity often need skin removal for optimal results.
Discomfort is generally mild to moderate and managed with medication. Most patients describe tightness rather than sharp pain
Most patients return to office-based work within 1–2 weeks, depending on healing and comfort levels.You should avoid heavy lifting for a minimum of 4 weeks after surgery.
Real Patient Reviews
“As soon as we met with Dr. Franck we knew he was extremely knowledgeable and skilled. He has a trained eye and is an artist. We have had experience with other plastic surgeons in the past and he has been the absolute most professional, knowledgeable, skilled and has an amazing bedside manner.”
“When I had my first consultation with him, I felt very welcomed and comfortable. After sharing the trauma and lack of confidence I was battling, he immediately put himself in my shoes and helped me come up with the best solution (which indeed was the procedure). Being that he was so confident, passionate, and professional; I knew that I could trust him.”
“As soon as we met with Dr. Franck we knew he was extremely knowledgeable and skilled. He has a trained eye and is an artist. We have had experience with other plastic surgeons in the past and he has been the absolute most professional, knowledgeable, skilled and has an amazing bedside manner.”
Schedule Your Private Consultation
Discover how a lip lift can refine your proportions and naturally enhance your smile. Schedule a private consultation with Dr. Philipp Franck, one of the best lip lift surgeons in New York, to create your personalized plan today.