# Arm Lift (Brachioplasty) > **Arm lift**, **arm reduction**, or **Brachioplasty** is a surgical procedure by which excess skin and fat are removed from the upper arms - Canonical page: https://doctormaresky.co.za/procedure/arm-lift - Category: [Body Contouring](https://doctormaresky.co.za/procedure-category/body-contouring) - Procedure directory: https://doctormaresky.co.za/procedures.md - Medical disclaimer: https://doctormaresky.co.za/medical-disclaimer ## Overview An **arm lift**, **arm reduction**, or **Brachioplasty** is a surgical procedure by which excess skin and fat are removed from the upper arms. This procedure can help reduce the signs of sagging skin which is associated with extreme weight loss or aging. ## The procedure An **arm lift surgery** can require a long or small incision, depending on the incision and how much skin and fat are removed. Some cases will require a temporary drainage tube which removes excess liquid from the incision site. ## Candidate information - **Description:** The best candidate for this surgery are those in relatively good shape but bothered by moderate fatty loose skin or fat in their upper arms that exercise and diet alone cannot reduce. These are the characteristics of an **ideal candidate**: ### Criteria - Loss of skin elasticity in older patients - Excess skin or fat in the upper arms - Have realistic expectations - Be in relatively good health - Be determined to maintain their weight, no weight loss or gain as it can affect the surgical outcomes ## Preparation - **Timeline:** **2-4 weeks** before surgery ### Medical tests - **Complete blood count (CBC)** - **ECG if over 40 years old** - **Chest X-ray if indicated** - **COVID-19 test if required** ### Medications #### Medications to discuss stopping - **Stop** aspirin and blood thinners **2 weeks** prior - **Stop** NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen) **1 week** prior - **Stop** herbal supplements (ginkgo, garlic, ginseng) **2 weeks** prior - **Stop** vitamin E supplements **1 week** prior #### Medications to continue - **Continue** essential medications as advised by **Dr Maresky** - **Inform Dr Maresky** of all current medications during consultation ### Lifestyle - **Smoking:** **Quit** smoking at least **4 weeks** before surgery to promote proper healing and reduce complications - **Alcohol:** **Avoid** alcohol **48 hours** before surgery - **Fasting:** No food or drink after midnight the night before surgery (**NPO after midnight**) ### Arrangements - **Arrange** transportation home after surgery - you cannot drive - **Arrange** for a responsible adult to stay with you for the first **24-48 hours** - **Prepare** recovery space at home with comfortable clothing and easy access to essentials - **Stock** up on prescribed medications and recommended supplies - **Arrange** time off work (**1-2 weeks** recommended, varies by procedure) - **Plan** for help with childcare and household tasks during recovery ## Recovery and aftercare An **arm lift surgery** can require a long or small incision, depending on the incision and how much skin and fat are removed. Some cases will require a temporary drainage tube which removes excess liquid from the incision site. ## Expected results The scarring can be quite extensive depending on the surgeons course of action, with the most invasive removal leaving a scar from the armpit right down the upper arm to the elbow. It can take up to **nine months** before the scars flatten and lighten in colour. ## Risks and considerations ### Normal Side Effects - **Description:** After undergoing the surgery, the patient may feel all or none of these very normal and common side effects: #### Effects - Swollen sore arms - Discomfort - Scars appear to worsen during the first 6 months post surgery ### Other Side Effects - **Description:** Like all medical procedures, the risk of complications increases when proper aftercare treatment is not followed. These complications include: #### Effects - Hypertrophic scarring (large fat/ thick scars) - Progressive pain that cannot be addressed with your pain medications - A high fever - Strange discolouration, and or leaking - Infection - Bleeding - Incision site splitting (this is extremely rare) - **Disclaimer:** These risks will be fully disclosed and explained by the surgeon, if at any point post surgery a patient suffers from any serious side effects – please consult your surgeon immediately. ## Frequently asked questions ### How long does arm lift surgery take? The duration of arm lift surgery varies depending on the extent of the procedure, typically ranging from 1-3 hours. ### Will I have visible scars after arm lift surgery? Yes, arm lift surgery does result in scarring. The extent depends on the surgical approach, with scars potentially extending from the armpit to the elbow. Scars typically fade and flatten over 9 months. ### When can I return to normal activities after arm lift surgery? Recovery varies by individual, but most patients can return to light activities within 1-2 weeks and full activities within 4-6 weeks, following surgeon's guidelines. ### Am I a good candidate for arm lift surgery? Good candidates are those with excess arm skin that cannot be improved with exercise, have realistic expectations, are in good health, and are committed to maintaining a stable weight. ### What is the difference between mini and full arm lift? A mini arm lift addresses minor sagging with smaller incisions, while a full arm lift treats significant excess skin with longer incisions for more dramatic results. ### Can arm lift be combined with other procedures? Yes, arm lift is often combined with body lift, thigh lift, or other body contouring procedures for comprehensive results after weight loss. ### How much does arm lift cost in Cape Town? Arm lift costs vary based on the extent of surgery and individual needs. A detailed quote is provided during your consultation with Dr Maresky. ### Will I need drains after arm lift surgery? Some cases may require temporary drainage tubes to remove excess fluid from the incision site, which are typically removed within a few days. ## Indicative pricing - Estimate: R65,000 to R85,000 ZAR - Cost factor: Skin laxity - Cost factor: Scar placement - Cost factor: Combined with liposuction - Detailed cost page: https://doctormaresky.co.za/cost/arm-lift - Final pricing is confirmed after an individual consultation. ## Consultation and contact - Consultation: https://doctormaresky.co.za/procedure/general-consultation - Contact: https://doctormaresky.co.za/contact