Arm Lift Surgery by Anthony MacQuillan
An Arm lift or Brachioplasty, is a surgical procedure designed for individuals who are struggling with sagging upper arms – a condition often caused by factors such as significant weight loss, ageing, or genetic predisposition. Arm Lift surgery removes excess skin from your upper arms and the lateral portion of the upper chest wall.
Arm Lift surgery is particularly beneficial for those who have lost weight and find that even exercise and a healthy diet are insufficient in addressing the excess skin and fat in the upper arm region.
Excess skin on the arms can make you feel self-conscious when wearing short-sleeved tops, a phrase that I often hear during consultations is ‘in summer I always wear a cardigan or long-sleeved top – even when I am on the beach’. It is a really debilitating problem and is one that is usually only responsive to surgery.
Arm Lift surgery aims to reshape the contour of the upper arm, axilla (armpit) and chest wall – where necessary – so that no excess tissue is visible following the procedure and so that you feel able to wear the clothes you want to (especially when it’s hot!).
The scars from the operation are well hidden when the arms are by the side and the procedure is associated with high patient satisfaction rates. An overnight stay in hospital, and fully mobile immediately after the procedure. Back to full range of activities by 6 weeks.
Consultant Plastic Surgeon Anthony MacQuillan performs Arm Lift surgery for his patients to help them get the toned, sculpted arms they want.
2 hours
General
Day case or overnight
6 weeks
You should see the final results of your arm lift in 6 months, but it can take 12 months for arm lift scars to fully fade.
Arm Lift Before & After Photos
Benefits of Brachioplasty
Brachioplasty offers a multitude of benefits, significantly impacting both the physical appearance and psychological well-being of patients.
- Improved Arm Contour and Appearance: The primary benefit of an Arm Lift is the enhanced appearance of the arms. Arm Lift surgery removes excess skin and fat, resulting in more toned and proportionate arms. This improvement in arm contour can make a difference in overall body image and confidence.
- Increased Clothing Options and Comfort: The secondary benefit of an Arm Lift is that afterwards, many patients find they have a wider range of clothing options available to them and that they are willing to engage is more activities such as swimming which prior to surgery would have been off limits. Although sleeves fit better, the best bit of the procedure is that so many patients return to clinic not wearing sleeves at all (vest tops are now the thing!) and for many they also vocalise an improved sense of style and self-expression.
- Enhanced Physical Comfort: Excess skin in the upper arms can be physically uncomfortable. Excess skin can cause chafing or irritation either in the armpit or from friction between the chest wall and the skin of the upper arm. It can also interfere with physical activities and exercise. Post-Brachioplasty, patients often report greater comfort during physical activities, encouraging a more active and healthy lifestyle.
- Boost in Self-Esteem and Confidence: The psychological benefits of an Arm Lift are significant. Many patients experience a boost in self-esteem and confidence following the surgery. This newfound confidence can positively affect various aspects of life, including social interactions and professional opportunities.
- Long-Lasting Results: While no cosmetic procedure can stop the ageing process, the results of an Arm Lift are typically long-lasting, especially if the patient maintains a stable weight and follows a healthy lifestyle.
- Reduction in Skin Irritation and Infections: As mentioned above, excess skin on the upper arm can lead to skin irritation, rashes, and sometimes infections. By removing this skin, Brachioplasty can reduce these issues, leading to a healthier and more comfortable life.
- Customised to Your Individual Needs: Arm Lift surgery can be tailored to meet the specific needs and goals of each patient. Whether it’s a minimal lift or more extensive reshaping, Anthony can customise the procedure to achieve the desired outcome.
Can an Arm Lift Help You?
The ideal candidates for an Arm Lift are individuals who:
- Experience Significant Upper Arm Skin Laxity: This is commonly seen in people who have undergone massive weight loss, leading to excess, hanging skin that cannot retract back to its original state. Ageing can also contribute to skin losing its elasticity, resulting in a similar condition.
- Maintain a Stable Weight: Candidates should be at or near their ideal weight and have maintained it for some time. Fluctuations in weight can affect the results of the surgery.
- Are in Good General Health: As with any surgical procedure, good overall health is crucial. This minimises the risk of complications during and after the surgery.
- Non-smokers or Willing to Quit: Smoking can impair healing and increase the risk of complications. Candidates should be non-smokers or willing to quit smoking well in advance of the surgery and throughout the recovery period.
- Have Realistic Expectations: Understanding what an Arm Lift can and cannot achieve is crucial. While it can significantly improve the appearance of the arms, it does come with scarring and limitations.
- Psychological Readiness: Undergoing cosmetic surgery is a significant decision that requires psychological readiness and a strong support system at home.
Before deciding on an Arm Lift, a thorough consultation with a BAAPS and BAPRAS-accredited surgeon, like Anthony is essential. During this consultation, Anthony will evaluate your arms, discuss your medical history, and understand your aesthetic goals. This process ensures that an Arm Lift is the most suitable procedure for your specific needs.
Types of Brachioplasty
Traditional
Brachioplasty
Traditional Brachioplasty is the most common type of Arm Lift. It is ideal for patients with a significant amount of excess skin and fat extending from the underarm to the elbow. In this procedure, an incision is made either on the inside or back of the arm, often extending from the underarm to just above the elbow. Excess skin and fat are removed, and the remaining skin is tightened to create a more toned look. This method is particularly effective for patients who have experienced massive weight loss.
Extended
Brachioplasty
Extended Brachioplasty is similar to the traditional method but includes an extension of the incision. The incision extends from the elbow, along the arm, and down to the side of the chest. This type is suitable for patients who have significant excess skin that extends beyond the upper arm and into the chest area. It is often chosen by patients who have lost a substantial amount of weight and have excess skin in both their arms and upper body.
Minimal Incision
Brachioplasty
For patients with a moderate amount of excess skin located near the armpit, a minimal incision Brachioplasty might be the best option. This procedure involves a small incision in the underarm area, allowing Anthony to remove excess skin and fat with minimal scarring. It is less invasive than traditional Brachioplasty and is suitable for patients who do not require extensive skin removal.
Liposuction-Only
Brachioplasty
In cases where skin elasticity is good but there is excess fat in the arms, liposuction alone might be sufficient. This procedure involves making small incisions in the arms through which a cannula (a thin tube) is inserted to suction out excess fat. This method is less invasive and has a quicker recovery time but is only suitable for patients with good skin tone and elasticity.
Combination
Procedures
Sometimes, Brachioplasty is combined with other procedures for more comprehensive body contouring. For example, it can be combined with a Breast Lift or Reduction, or with other Body Lifts, depending on the patient’s needs and goals.
Each type of Brachioplasty has its advantages and limitations, and the choice depends on various factors, including the patient’s anatomy, the amount of correction needed, and personal preferences.
How is the Arm Lift Surgery Performed?
Arm Lift surgery is a complex procedure that requires precision and expertise. The surgery is performed under general anaesthesia and takes approximately two hours. Here is a step-by-step overview of the process:
Step 1: Anaesthesia
The first step in an Arm Lift is administering anaesthesia. General anaesthesia is commonly used, ensuring that you are asleep and comfortable throughout the procedure. In some cases, local anaesthesia with sedation may be used.
Step 2: Making the Incision
The type of incision made will depend on the chosen Brachioplasty technique. In a traditional Arm Lift, the incision is made either on the inside or the back of the arm (Anthony generally uses one on the inner aspect of the arm) and can extend from the underarm to just above the elbow. For an extended Arm Lift, the incision may continue along the side of the chest.
Step 3: Removing Excess Skin and Fat
Once the incision is made, Anthony removes excess fat either through direct excision or liposuction. After the fat is removed, the underlying supportive tissue is tightened and reshaped with internal sutures. Excess skin is then trimmed away.
Step 4: Closing the Incisions
The incisions are closed with absorbable sutures. The sutures are placed in such a way as to minimise visible scarring.
Step 5: Seeing the Results
Immediately after the surgery, you will notice a change in the shape of your arms. However, the final results may take several months to become fully apparent, as swelling subsides and the skin adjusts to the new contours of the arm.
Step 6: Recovery
After the surgery, dressings or bandages will be applied to the incisions, and the arms may be wrapped in an elastic bandage or a compression garment to minimise swelling. Small tubes might be temporarily placed under the skin to drain any excess blood or fluid. Anthony will provide specific instructions on how to care for the surgical site, medications to apply or take orally, and advise on things to look out for at the surgical site. You will have regular follow up appointments so do not worry wont need to assess your own recovery!
Arm Lift Recovery and Aftercare
Recovery and aftercare are crucial aspects of the Arm Lift (Brachioplasty) process, significantly impacting the success and final outcome of the surgery. The recovery period can vary depending on the individual, the extent of the surgery, and your overall health. However, there are general guidelines and stages of recovery that you can expect:
Immediate Post-Operative Period
Immediately following the surgery, you will spend a few hours in a recovery room where medical staff can monitor their vital signs. Pain, swelling, and bruising are common during this period, and pain medication will be provided to manage discomfort.
First Few Days
- Bandages and Compression Garments: The incisions will have dressings over them (there is surgical glue on the incisions in addition to the stitches) however it is not unusually for these to get some strike through (bleeding onto the dressing) as we move our arms so much the incisions get stretched and then compressed resulting in (a little) bleeding from the wound edges. This happens almost universally and is not something to be particularly concerned about. If the dressings are very wet then it is probably worth changing them – contact us and we will arrange for this to be done for you by the nursing staff at the hospital. There are specialist compression garments that are available (https://www.lipoelastic.co.uk/arm-garments) but if you are more comfortable wearing a (tight) lycra cycling top then this will work well too.
- Drainage Tubes: If drainage tubes were placed during surgery, they will be removed before you go home (if you have stayed the night). If you have had the procedure as a day case and drains have been used then you will be given an appointment for drain removal a day or two after surgery.
- Limited Mobility: Arm movements will be restricted to ensure the incisions heal properly. You are advised to avoid lifting their arms above shoulder level or engaging in any strenuous activities for the first 2 weeks following the surgery.
First Two Weeks
- Pain and Swelling: Pain and swelling will gradually decrease. Pain medication should be taken as prescribed.
- Wound Care: Proper care of the incision sites is crucial. As stated above try to leave the dressings intact (even if there is a little blood on the dressings this is normal and acceptable). If the dressings are very wet then they will need to be changed and we will arrange for this to happen once we are aware (so please let us know if you are concerned!). Do not get the dressings wet (so no showering).
- Follow-up Appointments: You will have regular follow-up appointments to check on the healing process.
Weeks 3 to 6
- Increased Mobility: After 2 weeks it is important to ensure that you are moving your shoulders through the full range of motion – you may need to practice lifting your arms fully above shoulder height – a good way to do this is by walking your fingers up the wall and gradually increasing the height you can reach.
- Continued Swelling: Some swelling may persist, but it will continue to decrease over time
- Scar Care: Once the incisions have healed, you may be advised to start scar treatment to minimise scarring.
Beyond 6 Weeks
- Return to Normal Activities: You can return to your normal activities, including exercise, although heavy lifting and high-impact activities should be avoided until 3 months ideally.
- Final Results: While immediate improvements are noticeable, the final results of the surgery may take several months to become fully apparent as the body adjusts to its new shape
Long-Term Care
- Maintaining Results: Maintaining a stable weight and a healthy lifestyle is important for sustaining the results of the surgery.
- Regular Check-ups: Regular check-ups with Anthony are recommended to monitor the long-term outcomes of the arm lift surgery.
How Much Is Armlift Surgery in the UK?
The total cost of Armlift Surgery in the UK depends on the type of procedure being performed. For example, an Armlift or Brachioplasty can range from £4,600 to £12,500.
These prices are influenced by numerous factors including the surgeon’s training & experience, the complexity of the operation, the type of anaesthesia, the facility used and the post-op and follow-up care you receive. After your consultation, you will be given an estimate of the costs for a procedure tailored to your needs. It’s also important to ensure that all these necessary items are listed on the quote you receive.
As every patient is different, you will receive a customised quote valid for 3 months after your thorough consultation.
Your total Armlift Cost will include:
- Surgeon’s Fee (covering your surgery and your post-op and follow-up consultations)
- Assistant Fee
- Anaesthetist Fee
- Hospital Fee
For a rough estimate please contact Anthony’s team by phone or email.
FAQs
Find out more about your surgical journey
What’s involved in an Arm Lift Surgery?
Liposuction is used to remove any excess subcutaneous fat from the inner and posterior aspects of the upper arm to help achieve an ideal contour. The additional slack skin is then excised so that the skin is tightened and the shape of the arm becomes more youthful.
To achieve optimal results the incision usually needs to be carried into the axilla or armpit, so that the excess tissue here can also be removed (this helps to shape the upper part of the arm). This often has the added benefit of removing the armpit hair and sweat glands!
What do the Arm Lift scars look like?
The scar typically runs from the inside of the elbow to the inside of the armpit (upper part of the chest wall). It is placed in the groove between the biceps and the triceps muscles and so is well hidden.
How long does Arm Lift surgery take?
Arm Lift surgery time varies depending on the amount of excess skin and subcutaneous fat to be removed. Typically it takes 1½ to 2 hours but in cases of massive weight loss it can take up to 3 hours to perform.
How long is the recovery process?
Typically, the incisions take 2 weeks to heal, though the areas in the armpit can sometimes take a little longer to heal completely. Your incisions will normally be sealed with surgical glue on top of the stitches so the wound itself will be waterproof, and you should be able to take a shower after a couple of days.
You can return to light activities (as pain permits) after one to two weeks. However, strenuous activities should be avoided for six weeks following the operation to allow sufficient time for incision wound strength to reach levels where wound dehiscence (splitting) is unlikely.
Driving is usually safe by two weeks, but it is important that you feel you’ll be able to safely perform an emergency stop prior to getting back behind the wheel.
How long before you see the final results of an Arm Lift?
The change in the contour of the arm will be apparent immediately following the procedure however there will be residual swelling from the liposuction that can take up to nine months to disappear. The scar is likely to be red for 9 to 12 months following the operation – the redness fades as the scar matures.
What are the Risks & Potential Complications of a Brachioplasty?
As with any surgical procedure, Arm Lift surgery carries risks and potential complications. Patients need to be aware of these risks:
Common Risks
- Scarring: Scarring is an inevitable outcome of Arm Lift surgery. The scars can be significant, depending on the extent of the surgery, but they fade over time.
- Swelling and Bruising: Temporary swelling and bruising are common after the surgery and usually subside within a few weeks.
- Pain and Discomfort: Some degree of pain and discomfort is expected, which can be managed with prescribed pain medication.
Potential Complications
- Infection: There is a risk of infection at the incision sites. Following Anthony’s wound care instructions and taking prescribed antibiotics can minimise this risk.
- Bleeding and Haematoma: Excessive bleeding or the formation of a haematoma (a collection of blood outside of blood vessels) is a potential risk.
- Seroma Formation: Accumulation of fluid under the skin (seroma) can occur, which may need to be drained.
- Poor Wound Healing: Some patients may experience delayed or poor wound healing, particularly those who smoke or have certain medical conditions.
Reducing Risks
- Choosing a Qualified Surgeon: One of the best ways to minimise risks is to choose a highly qualified and experienced surgeon.
- Following Pre- and Post-Operative Instructions: Adhering to the surgeon’s instructions before and after the surgery is crucial for reducing the risk of complications.
- Maintaining Realistic Expectations: Understanding the limitations and potential outcomes of the surgery can help in achieving satisfactory results.
Medical References about Arm Lift Surgery
Reviews
Patient satisfaction is the top priority for Anthony. You can find how patients feel about his work below.
Amazing surgeon and a really lovely man
I had a bilateral bracoplasty in November 17 at the Spire Hospital Bristol with Mr MacQuillan. I chose him for my surgery after my daughter’s ear was repaired by him earlier. He is a warm caring person very easy to talk too and really understanding of my needs and worries about such surgery. He was very normal in his approach and in no way arrogant like a colleague I had seen previously. He was genuinely interested in my well being and was extremely thorough in all asspects of the surgery explanations and the aftercare he provided was second to none even over the Christmas new year period. I can highly recommend him for plastic surgery he will certainly put you at ease if you are looking for any procedures The surgery went well and the outcome was better than I had imagined it would be so I,m delighted
Re brachial plexus injury
I have been a patient of Mr MacQuillan’s since 2011 over which time I have had four operations. They were a gracilis transfer to my arm, shoulder surgery to give external rotation, wrist tendon transfer to enable grip function and surgery on my hand. Each operation has been a great success. Before surgery each procedure and the outcome I could expect was explained in great detail. Mr MacQuillan is an exceptional surgeon, he is enthusiastic and will work with you to obtain the best possible outcome. If you are lucky enough to be referred to Mr MacQuillan grab the opportunity!
Free Muscle and Nerve Transfer into Biceps – March 2016.
Following a motorcycle accident which left me with a left arm Brachial Plexus Injury, suspected C5,6,7 avulsed, but likely C8,T1 also avulsed, I was introduced to Anthony after 9 months of rehab on the NHS at RNOH Stanmore under Mr M Fox and locally at Salisbury and Southampton Rehab units.
I was keen to explore all avenues of regaining some bicep function but moreover I was eager to find a permanent solution to preventing my shoulder from subluxing. It was causing me intense neck and back ache and the strapping I had to wear to support my shoulder was very intrusive, uncomfortable and being bespoke for me meant that I only had one sling and it wasn’t very hygenic.
I met Anthony in Bristol Spire shortly before Christmas ’15 to discuss if my situation was suitable for a Muscle and Nerve Transfer operation. First impressions last…and my first impressions put me completely at ease. Anthony ensured I left knowing exactly the realistic outcomes achievbable to me. I was also shown videos and pictures of previous operations and was put under no illusion that if I were to go ahead with the operation the immediate 6-12 months would be extremely tough both physically but more so mentally.
Anthony’s confidence and passion was infectious and as I departed from the meeting I remember feeling 100% sure that I would be safe under his guidance and the knife!
Fast forward 3 months and I was at Bristol Spire again ready for the operation. Again every part of the operation was discussed in detail, alongwith what to expect immediately after in recovery and then when returning to my room.
Upon waking up Anthony was present to confirm all had gone well. I was transferred into the safe hands of the staff in recovery. For the next 24 hours Anthony visited regularly when he could to check on my drains and the blood flow through thr gracilis muscle now in my bicep.
Shortly after this I was transferred back to my room and recall Anthony visiting me daily, sometimes twice a day to ensure everything was going to plan. This was very reassuring both on a personal level but also for the Nurses and team looking after me too.
I was up out of bed after 24 hours, walking after 48 hours and discharged after 5 days, Good Friday. The human body is amazing when pushed and Anthony certainly doesn’t let one rest on one’s morals. I was up for the challenge and I think Anthony could see this in me.
The 6 week check up was the time for me to take my arm out of the sling and see if everything had worked. My shoulder immediately stayed in place and did not sublux and the head of the joint was perfectly stable too, if a little weak. This was incredible.
I now had up to 12 months of constant self-rehab to encourage my intercostal nerves now firing my gracilis as a new bicep. Mental fatigue and remaining upbeat was the hardest challenge here; but after just 7 months my arm flickered as I yawned one night. The connection had been made and the recovery accelerated or snowballed at an astonishing pace up to Christmas. I have now (July 17) regained a lot of shoulder control and movement and can also ennovate my bicep so that my left hand goes from my waist to above my right nipple/chest.
This has allowed me to re-engage in the activities I love doing most. The pictures I’ve attached show a couple of pictures of me in Bristol during the recovery phase, riding my 900cc Kawasaki for 3 days in Portimao, Portugal in May 2017 in the safe knowledge that I can control my arm (with the assistance of some velcro) and I am also now in serious training and competition in athletics, primarily Long, Triple, High Jump and 400m with Paralympics GB. I am currently #1 in the UK for Long Jump in my para classification T/F46 and #2 in the UK for 400m.
All of this would not have been posible without Anthony’s most excellent work, his vision and determination to help me achieve the goals I have now set following the motorcycle accident that could have ruined my life – it most certainly has not. Thank you so much Anthony.
Why Choose Anthony MacQuillan for Your Brachioplasty (Arm Lift) Procedure
Anthony’s commitment to artistic precision and personalized care guarantees that your Brachioplasty procedure will be customized to address your specific needs and aesthetic objectives. Our clinic blends cutting-edge surgical techniques with a compassionate approach to patient support, ensuring a comforting and reassuring journey from initial consultation to post-operative recovery.
Whether you’re aiming for subtle improvements or a dramatic transformation, our team is dedicated to assisting you in attaining a revitalized, naturally beautiful appearance that harmonizes with your individual vision.
To discover more about how our Brachioplasty procedures can help you achieve your desired look, or to arrange a consultation with Anthony, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us today.
Further Reading about Body Surgery with Consultant Plastic Surgeon Anthony MacQuillan
- Read more about Fleur De Lis Abdominoplasty
- Read more about Liposuction with Body Jet
- Read more about Excess Skin Removal Surgery
- Read more about Body Lift
- Read more about Abdominoplasty Surgery
