What Is an Arm Lift? A Clear Guide to Brachioplasty

Even with regular workouts, your upper arms can hold onto loose skin that affects how your clothes fit. Many people feel self-conscious in sleeveless tops despite being at a healthy weight. 

As a board-certified plastic surgeon dedicated to cosmetic body procedures, Dr. York Yates brings years of concentrated experience to arm lift surgery. He is happy to meet with you in Layton, Utah, to discuss what an arm lift can realistically accomplish.

What Is an Arm Lift?

An arm lift, also called brachioplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the upper arms. The goal is to create a firmer contour between the shoulder and elbow.

When your skin has stretched beyond its ability to tighten on its own, no amount of strength training will shrink it back. An arm lift directly removes that loose tissue and reshapes the underlying area for a more defined look.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Brachioplasty?

You may be a good candidate if you have loose or hanging skin on your upper arms, often after weight loss, pregnancy, or aging. 

Ideal candidates are at a stable weight, in good health, and non-smokers with realistic expectations. An arm lift improves contour and tightness but does leave a scar along the inner arm, which Dr. Yates will review with you during your consultation.

What Happens During the Procedure?

Brachioplasty is usually performed as an outpatient procedure. Dr. Yates removes excess skin and may use liposuction to refine the area further. The incision is carefully placed along the inner arm to keep it as discreet as possible.

His practice offers rapid recovery and specialized anesthesia options designed to make the experience smoother and more comfortable.

What Is Recovery Like?

After surgery, you will wear a compression garment to help control swelling and support healing. It’s normal to feel some tightness and see mild bruising early on. Most people return to light daily activities within a few days, while workouts and heavier lifting need to wait until Dr. Yates says it’s safe.

As swelling gradually settles over the next several weeks, you will start to see the final results taking shape.

Find Out if Brachioplasty Is Right for You

Call Dr. York Yates Plastic Surgery at (801) 525-8741 to discuss your goals and find out whether brachioplasty fits your needs.