Arm Lift - Brachioplasty, Bat Wing Removal, Skin Tightening, Benefits, Recovery, Results, Risks, Cost

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Benefits of Arm Lift Surgery

Eliminates Bat Wings

Removes the hanging, sagging skin that causes embarrassment and limits clothing choices. Results are immediate and dramatic.

Restore Arm Contour

Creates a toned, defined upper arm appearance that reflects your fitness level and weight loss achievement.

Confidence in Sleeveless Clothing

Finally wear tank tops, sleeveless dresses, and swimwear without self-consciousness about your arms.

Permanent Results

Once the excess skin is removed, it won't return. With stable weight maintenance, your improved arm contour is lasting.

Expected Results

Arm lift surgery delivers dramatic improvement in upper arm contour. The hanging skin is permanently removed, creating a tighter, more toned appearance. While scars are an inevitable trade-off, most patients find the transformation well worth it.

Immediate Improvement

The change in arm contour is visible immediately after surgery, even with swelling. Once swelling resolves over the following weeks, the full improvement becomes apparent.

Toned, Defined Arms

The arms will appear tighter, smoother, and more proportionate to your body. Clothing fits better, and sleeveless options become comfortable again.

Visible Scarring (The Trade-Off)

Scars are placed on the inner arm but will be visible, especially with arms raised. The extent of scarring depends on how much skin needs to be removed. Scars fade significantly over 12-18 months.

Real Patient Results

Browse our extensive gallery to see the natural, symmetrical results Dr. Neavin achieves.

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Patient Stories

5-Star Experiences

“

After losing 80 pounds, my arms were the thing I hated most. Dr. Neavin gave me arms I'm actually proud of. Yes, there are scars, but I'll take scars over bat wings any day.

— Arm Lift Patient

"Dr. Neavin explained all my options and recommended a staged approach for my situation. The results exceeded my expectations, and the scars are fading nicely."

— Post-Weight Loss Patient

"I can finally wear sleeveless tops without feeling self-conscious. The recovery was easier than I expected, and Dr. Neavin's team was wonderful throughout."

— Brachioplasty Patient

Arm Lift Surgical Techniques

Not all arm lifts are the same. Dr. Neavin uses different techniques depending on the degree of skin laxity, allowing him to minimize scarring when possible while still achieving excellent results.

Liposuction Alone (Mild Laxity)

For patients with good skin elasticity and primarily excess fat, circumferential liposuction may be sufficient. This approach not only removes fat but can stimulate skin tightening in the right candidates.

The advantage is minimal scarring, just tiny incisions for the liposuction cannula. However, this only works for patients whose skin has enough elasticity to contract around the new arm contour.

Staged Approach (Moderate Laxity)

For some patients, Dr. Neavin recommends a two-stage approach. First, liposuction removes excess fat and allows the skin to tighten naturally over 4-6 months. Then, a second procedure removes any remaining loose skin.

The advantage of staging is potentially shorter scars, since some skin tightening occurs naturally before the excision. This approach requires patience but can optimize the final result.

Limited Incision Brachioplasty (Moderate Laxity)

When skin laxity is moderate, a crescent-shaped excision within the armpit may be sufficient. This nicely conceals the scar but has limitations, it cannot adequately address severe laxity.

This technique is ideal for patients with localized looseness near the armpit who want to avoid a scar running down the arm.

Full Brachioplasty / L-Brachioplasty (Severe Laxity)

For significant skin laxity, incisions must run along the length of the inner arm, sometimes extending into the armpit and lateral chest wall. The L-brachioplasty, as described by Dr. Hurwitz and Dr. Neavin, addresses both arm laxity and the “bra roll” that often accompanies loose arm skin.

This technique provides the most comprehensive correction but results in the longest scars. For patients with severe laxity after major weight loss, this is often the only approach that delivers satisfactory results.

Patient Profile

Candidates

Ideal Candidates

Have loose, hanging skin on the upper arms (“bat wings”)
Have lost significant weight and the skin hasn’t retracted
Have reached a stable weight and maintained it for at least 3-6 months
Are bothered by arm appearance in sleeveless clothing
Have realistic expectations about scarring (scars will be visible)
Are non-smokers or willing to quit for at least 4 weeks before and after surgery
Are in good overall health

Not Ideal Candidates

Have only excess fat without significant skin laxity (liposuction may be better)
Are still actively losing weight
Are unwilling to accept visible scarring on the inner arm
Smoke and are unwilling to quit
Have unrealistic expectations about scar visibility
Have medical conditions that impair wound healing

Learn More About The Procedure

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Estimated Investment

$8,000 - $15,000

Arm lift cost varies based on the technique required and whether it's combined with other procedures. The investment includes surgeon fees, operating room and facility fees, anesthesia, and all pre and post-operative care. Patients with mild laxity who are candidates for liposuction alone will be at the lower end of this range. Those requiring full brachioplasty or L-brachioplasty with chest wall extension will be at the higher end. Arm lift is often combined with other body contouring procedures such as breast lift, tummy tuck, or body lift, which can reduce overall costs compared to staging procedures separately. Dr. Neavin keeps combined procedures under 6-8 hours for safety, and may bring in a second plastic surgeon to reduce operating time when multiple procedures are planned. Arm lift surgery is considered elective and cosmetic, so insurance typically does not cover it. Financing options are available through CareCredit and Prosper Healthcare Lending.

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Combining Arm Lift with Other Procedures

Comprehensive Body Contouring

Arm lift patients, especially those who have lost significant weight often have laxity in other areas as well. Dr. Neavin frequently combines arm lift with Breast Lift, tummy tuck, thigh lift, or body lift procedures. Combining procedures reduces overall costs, consolidates recovery time, and achieves a more comprehensive transformation. Safety is the priority, so procedures are staged if total operating time would exceed 6-8 hours. When multiple procedures are planned, Dr. Neavin may work alongside a second plastic surgeon to reduce time under anesthesia.

Surgery Day Journey

Arrival and Preparation

You'll arrive at the surgical facility approximately 1 hour before your scheduled procedure. After checking in and changing into a surgical gown, you'll meet with the nursing team and anesthesiologist. Dr. Neavin will mark your arms while standing to ensure precise planning.

Anesthesia

Arm lift can be performed under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation, depending on the extent of the procedure and patient preference. The anesthesia team monitors you throughout the entire surgery.

The Procedure

The surgery typically takes 1-2 hours for both arms. Excess skin and fat are removed through incisions on the inner arm. The remaining skin is carefully re-draped and sutured. Drains are sometimes placed to prevent fluid accumulation.

The Artisan Promise

Comprehensive
Aftercare Support

Proper aftercare is essential for optimal arm lift results. Dr. Neavin's team provides comprehensive support throughout your recovery journey.

Compression and Wound Care

You'll wear compression wraps or sleeves as directed to minimize swelling and support healing. Detailed instructions for wound care, including how to shower and when to change dressings, will be provided before you leave the surgical facility.

Activity Guidelines

Avoid raising your arms above shoulder height for the first 1-2 weeks. No heavy lifting (over 5-10 pounds) for 4-6 weeks. Gradually increase activity as healing progresses. Following these guidelines protects your incisions and optimizes scar quality.

Scar Management

Once incisions are fully healed (typically 2-3 weeks), scar management begins. This may include silicone sheets or gel, scar massage, and sun protection. Dr. Neavin provides specific recommendations based on how your scars are healing.

Healing Timeline

Every patient heals differently, but this timeline offers a general guide for your return to daily life.

Days 1-7: Initial Recovery

Arms are wrapped with compression dressings. You'll have limited arm mobility and should avoid raising your arms above shoulder height. Pain is manageable with oral medication and typically peaks around days 2-3 before improving. You can walk and perform basic activities but should rest and keep arms elevated when possible.

Weeks 2-3: Gradual Return to Activity

Wraps may be replaced with compression sleeves. Sutures are removed if non-dissolvable sutures were used. You can gradually increase arm movement but should still avoid lifting anything heavy. Most patients can return to desk work during this period. Swelling and bruising continue to improve.

Weeks 4-6: Resuming Normal Activities

Full activity, including upper body exercise, is typically allowed by 6-8 weeks. Scars continue to mature and fade significantly over 12-18 months. Scar massage and silicone treatments can help optimize scar appearance. Final results are visible once scars have fully matured.

Months 3-12: Scar Maturation

Safety &
Potential Risks

Arm lift surgery is generally safe when performed by an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon. Dr. Neavin takes every precaution to minimize risks and discusses all potential complications during consultation so you can make an informed decision.

Important Considerations

Scarring: This is the most significant consideration. Scars are permanent, though they fade over time. The extent of scarring correlates directly with the amount of skin removed more laxity means longer scars.
Wound Healing Issues: The inner arm is subject to tension and movement, which can affect healing. Smokers and diabetics have higher risk of wound complications. Following post-operative instructions carefully is essential.
Seroma: Fluid collection under the skin can occur. Compression garments and activity restrictions help prevent this. Any collections that develop can be drained in the office.
Asymmetry: Perfect symmetry is not achievable, though Dr. Neavin works meticulously to create balanced results. Minor differences between arms are normal.
Numbness: Temporary or permanent changes in sensation along the inner arm are common. Most patients experience improvement over several months.
Infection: As with any surgery, infection is possible. Antibiotics and sterile technique minimize this risk.
Need for Revision: Some patients may benefit from a touch-up procedure to optimize results or address scar issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I have visible scars after arm lift surgery?

Yes, scarring is unavoidable with arm lift surgery. The trade-off for removing excess skin is a scar, typically located on the inner arm. The length of the scar depends on how much skin needs to be removed. Scars are most visible with arms raised and fade significantly over 12-18 months, though they remain permanently visible to some degree.

Can liposuction alone fix my arms?

Liposuction works well for patients with excess fat but good skin elasticity. If your skin can contract around the new arm contour, liposuction may be sufficient. However, if you have significant loose skin (which is common after weight loss or with aging), liposuction alone won't help—and may actually worsen the appearance by leaving even more loose skin. Dr. Neavin will evaluate your specific situation during consultation.

What is the difference between a mini arm lift and a full arm lift?

A mini arm lift (limited incision brachioplasty) uses a crescent-shaped incision hidden in the armpit and is suitable for patients with mild to moderate laxity localized near the armpit. A full arm lift requires an incision running along the inner arm, sometimes extending to the elbow, and is necessary for patients with significant laxity along the entire upper arm.

How long do arm lift results last?

Arm lift results are permanent in that the removed skin will not grow back. However, natural aging continues, and significant weight fluctuations can affect your results. Maintaining a stable weight helps preserve your improved arm contour for years to come.

Can arm lift be combined with other procedures?

Yes, arm lift is frequently combined with breast lift, tummy tuck, body lift, or thigh lift, especially for patients who have lost significant weight. Combining procedures reduces overall costs and consolidates recovery. Dr. Neavin prioritizes safety and will stage procedures if total operating time would be excessive.

Dr. Tim Neavin

The Artisan

Artistry Meets
Surgical Precision

Dr. Tim Neavin brings exceptional expertise to arm lift surgery. He trained under brachioplasty pioneers Drs. Peter Rubin and Dennis Hurwitz at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, one of the leading centers for post-bariatric body contouring. This specialized training provided him with advanced techniques that many surgeons never learn.
Dr. Neavin has contributed to the field of brachioplasty through several published book chapters, including:

“The L-Brachioplasty” in Clinics of Plastic Surgery
“Brachioplasty in Advances in Aesthetic Surgery” (Thieme Medical Publishers)
“Body Contouring of the Arms and Brachioplasty” in Handchirurgie Mikrochirurgie Plastische Chirurgie

This academic involvement ensures Dr. Neavin stays at the forefront of technique development and brings evidence-based practices to his patients. He understands that arm lift patients have often worked hard to lose weight and deserve results that honor that achievement.

Dr. Neavin evaluates each patient individually to determine the optimal approach, whether that’s liposuction alone, a staged procedure, or a full brachioplasty. His expertise with the L-brachioplasty technique allows him to address not just arm laxity but also the “bra roll” that often accompanies loose arm skin.

Diplomate American Board of
Plastic Surgery

Philosophy "Surgery with
Symmetry"

Beverly Hills & Santa Barbara

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Schedule your private consultation with Dr. Neavin today.

Arm Lift Eliminate "bat wings" and restore toned, contoured upper arms that give you confidence in sleeveless clothing.