Arm Lift Risks & Safety

Like any surgical procedure, a Brachioplasty carries potential risks and complications. Some risks include: Bleeding Infection Poor wound healing Anesthesia complications Nerve damage Seroma formation Hematoma Visible scarring Changes in skin sensation Skin discoloration Asymmetry Unsatisfactory results Need for revision surgery Blood clots in the arms or lungs (rare) If you do experience any of the previously mentioned reactions or long-lasting side effects, please contact our office immediately so that we can help.

Is an Arm Lift Painful?

Arm Lifts are often not considered to be painful procedures. Any pain or discomfort felt during the surgery will be significantly reduced thanks to sedation. Patients can expect some discomfort and tightness during the initial stages of recovery, but this will subside over time. Dr. Landford will also temporarily prescribe you pain medication to alleviate any pain during this time.

How many appointments will I need?

Dr. Landford will have you schedule a follow-up appointment five to seven days after your Brachioplasty to assess your recovery and remove any sutures or bandages. You can anticipate another visit a few weeks later to ensure your satisfaction with the results and that you are healing properly. Most patients can expect between three and four follow-up appointments. Dr. Landford will always inform you of when she would like for you to return at the end of each check-up.

How long until I see results?

While patients can witness immediate improvement in the shape of their arm after an Arm Lift, it can take several weeks to see the final full results. Swelling, bruising, and discomfort are to be expected during the post-operative recovery period. It’s important to note that Arm Lift Surgery will result in scarring, although the scars can often be easily concealed and fade over time. One common concern among patients considering cosmetic procedures is the longevity of the results. With stable weight maintenance and a healthy lifestyle, the results of a traditional Arm Lift typically last for a decade or longer. We encourage patients to maintain a healthy lifestyle and follow post-operative care instructions to optimize the longevity of their Arm Lift results.

Can I combine Arm Lift with other procedures?

Yes! Arm Lift surgery is commonly combined with other body contouring procedures such as Liposuction , Breast Augmentation , Tummy Tuck , or Thigh Lift . The decision to combine procedures should be made in consultation with Dr. Landford, who can evaluate your individual needs and determine the safest and most effective course of treatment.

Arm Lift

In Washington D.C. &. Maryland

Discover the transformational possibilities of Brachioplasty, a specialized procedure that addresses the dreaded “Bat Wings” or excess skin and fat on the upper arms. Landford Plastic Surgery is dedicated to helping you achieve arms that reflect your hard work and commitment to your body.

Jump to:

Gallery
Candidates
Preparation
Techniques
Recovery
Cost

What is an Arm Lift?

Whether you’ve experienced weight loss, aging-related changes, or simply desire a more sculpted arm contour, Dr. Wilmina Landford can tailor the procedure to your unique needs. With a focus on minimal scarring and natural-looking results, our expert team is committed to helping you regain confidence in your appearance. Say goodbye to the discomfort and self-consciousness of sagging upper arms and embrace the freedom to wear sleeveless attire with pride. Explore the possibilities of Brachioplasty with us and take the first step toward a more confident you.

At Landford Plastic Surgery in both Washington DC & Maryland, we know that every patient is unique, which is why Dr. Wilmina Landford will tailor the procedure to your specific needs and goals. We prioritize safety, comfort, and natural-looking results, ensuring you are satisfied with all aspects of your Arm Lift procedure.

Who is a Good Candidate for Arm Lift Surgery?

Arm Lifts are designed for adults with loose, sagging skin in their arms but are in good overall health and near their ideal weight.

Good candidates for Arm Lifts should also have the following characteristics:

Maintain a stable weight
Have no medical conditions that impair healing or increase the risk of surgery
Maintain a positive outlook and realistic expectations
Possess significant upper arm skin laxity
Do not smoke
Are not planning any more significant weight loss

Woman holding up her arm and looking at her triceps

How Much Does an Arm Lift Cost in Washington DC & Maryland?

The cost of an Arm Lift in Washington DC & Maryland will be based on many factors, including the degree of change you will require to achieve smoother arms. The best way to find out how much it will cost is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Landford and have her evaluate your arms.

After your surgical plan is created, our Patient Coordinator will be able to provide you with a price breakdown for your entire experience.

What Should I Expect During an Arm Lift Consultation?

If you’re considering an Arm Lift at Landford Plastic Surgery in either the Washington DC or Maryland practice, your first step is to schedule a consultation with Wilmina Landford, M.D. On the day of your appointment, you will meet with Dr. Wilmina Landford who will carefully examine your arms and discuss the various surgical methods available, including the associated risks and benefits of the procedure.

We encourage you to ask questions and share any concerns you may have about the procedure, as we are committed to providing comprehensive support. Dr. Landford will also inquire about your medical history and lifestyle, so it’s important to be candid and forthcoming with your information. Once she has all the necessary information, Dr. Landford will create a personalized surgical plan tailored to your needs.

If you’re satisfied with the plan and wish to proceed, our Patient Coordinator will assist you in scheduling your procedure day and time. We are dedicated to ensuring your experience is smooth and successful, and we look forward to helping you achieve your desired results with an Arm Lift surgery.

How Do I Prepare for Arm Lift Surgery?

Before you leave your consultation, we will provide you with a list of instructions to follow to make the most out of your procedure. Each patient will have instructions catered to their needs, but below, we have included some standard tips to follow:

Arrange transportation to and from the surgical facility
Avoid alcoholic beverages, certain medications, and quit smoking 6 weeks before surgery
Avoid excessive sun exposure
Fill prescriptions before surgery
Get a good night’s sleep before your procedure
Meal prep before surgery
Stay hydrated

What are the Benefits of an Arm Lift?

At Landford Plastic Surgery, we have helped our Washington DC and Maryland Arm Lift patients enjoy the following benefits from their procedure:

Changes in tone and shape
Discreet scarring
Eliminates hygiene problems and infection risks
Increased self-esteem
Improved comfort in your daily life
More clothing options (you may notice that your shirt size has gone down after an arm lift)
Prevents inflammation and rashes due to excess skin folds
Reduced sagging skin, with tighter and smoother supportive tissue underneath the arms
Scars are hidden (with an arm lift, the scars are hidden either in the inner arm, at the armpit, or the back of the arm)

What are the Steps of an Arm Lift?

On the day of your Arm Lift Procedure, you will first get prepped for the procedure and meet with Dr. Landford once more before you begin. Then you will be administered anesthesia, either with intravenous sedation or general anesthesia. Once you are properly sedated, Dr. Landford will make incisions in deliberate locations on your arm, and if you are receiving fat removal as well, she will perform Liposuction. To learn more about how Liposuction works and is performed, please read our full page dedicated to the procedure on our website. Dr. Landford will use her expertise to determine the length and placement of the incision for optimal results in lifting the upper arm. The incisions are usually made on the inside or back of the arm, and Liposuction may be performed to remove excess fat. After the Arm Lift is performed, the incisions are closed with absorbable sutures or removable stitches. Arm Lift surgery with Dr. Landford is an outpatient procedure lasting one to three hours and requires a patient to have someone accompany them to the office due to anesthesia and post-operative pain medications.

Surgical Techniques for Brachioplasty

Just like how every patient’s needs are not the same, there are different techniques for an Arm Lift to help our Washington DC, and Maryland patients achieve more sculpted and toned arms.

Traditional Arm Lift

Dr. Landford removes a large amount of skin and fatty tissue from the armpit to the elbow. This is the most effective option for patients with more significant amounts of excess skin and fat on the entire upper arm.

Extended Arm Lift

The surgeon removes fatty tissue and loose skin underneath the arm and addresses any concerns related to areas on the side of the body. This option is most effective in patients with more significant amounts of excess skin and fat on the entire upper arm and side of the chest wall.

Hidden Arm Lift

Sometimes used with Liposuction, a Hidden Arm Lift involves a surgical incision that can be made in the crease of the armpit. This procedure can be an effective option for patients with moderate amounts of fat and loose skin.

Mini-Arm Lift

This limited incision procedure is ideal for patients who only need a small amount of loose skin removed from their upper arms. With smaller incisions, Mini-Arm Lift patients can enjoy less visible scars on their inner arms while still achieving a more toned and youthful arm appearance.

Liposuction only

This procedure can be used to reshape the arm for some patients. It requires a small incision and a short recovery time. Typically, Liposuction works best for patients with good skin elasticity, little to no excess skin, and a small amount of fat.

Non-Surgical Arm Lift

Not every patient needs a surgical procedure to treat their drooping arms. In cases where a modest amount of fat needs to be reduced, laser or radiofrequency treatments can help reduce a fatty appearance. Please keep in mind that this procedure does not address loose, hanging skin, so if Dr. Landford feels your skin elasticity isn’t where it should be, this option may not be right for you.

Where are the Incisions and Scars for an Arm Lift?

Dr. Landford does her best to make incisions where they will be most discreet. In most Brachioplasty procedures, incisions are placed on the inside of the arm or the back of the arm and may extend from the underarm (axilla) to just above the elbow.

Every surgery will have scarring in some form, but please keep in mind that scars will fade over time. There are also non-surgical treatments like microdermabrasion or laser scar removal that can help with appearances once you have fully recovered.

Woman in a bikini stretching her arms above her head

Arm Lift Recovery

Immediately after Arm Lift surgery, patients may experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the treated area. You should avoid any heavy lifting or strenuous activity for at least 4-6 weeks post-surgery to allow for proper healing and prevent any complications. Light exercises like walking are encouraged to promote blood flow and prevent blood clots.

Dr. Landford will provide you with instructions on how to care for your incisions and prescribe you some temporary medications to help manage any pain. These instructions may include:

Avoid smoking and alcohol consumption
Eat a healthy diet to promote healing
Keep your arms elevated to reduce swelling
Make sure the incision sites stay clean and dry

Most patients can return to work and regular activities within 1-2 weeks after the surgery, but the full recovery time may take up to several months.

Over time, swelling and bruising will subside, revealing the final results of your Brachioplasty.

Why Choose Us?

Wilmina Landford, MD brings an unparalleled level of knowledge and skill to every procedure, making her an exceptional choice for your Arm Lift. Having trained at the prestigious Johns Hopkins, Dr. Landford embodies the pinnacle of medical excellence. Her education at Mount Holyoke College and Stony Brook Medicine further solidifies her commitment to advancing the field of plastic surgery. With a rich background in Body Contouring, she has collaborated closely with world-renowned experts, honing her techniques to deliver unparalleled results. When you choose Dr. Landford for your Arm Lift, you’re choosing an exceptional blend of artistry, expertise, and empowerment. Your journey to firmer, more toned arms begins here, guided by a surgeon who combined the finest training with a deep passion for enhancing your natural beauty.

Schedule a Consultation

If you are looking for an effective way to eliminate excess skin and achieve beautiful, sculpted arms, an Arm Lift from Landford Plastic Surgery may be exactly what you have been searching for – and with two convenient locations in Washington DC and , Maryland, it’s easier than ever! Call your nearest location today to book your consultation with Dr. Landford, and let’s start the journey to the arms you’ve always dreamed of.

Schedule Now

Arm Lift FAQ’s

Like any surgical procedure, a Brachioplasty carries potential risks and complications. Some risks include:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Poor wound healing
- Anesthesia complications
- Nerve damage
- Seroma formation
- Hematoma
- Visible scarring
- Changes in skin sensation
- Skin discoloration
- Asymmetry
- Unsatisfactory results
- Need for revision surgery
- Blood clots in the arms or lungs (rare)
If you do experience any of the previously mentioned reactions or long-lasting side effects, please contact our office immediately so that we can help.
Arm Lifts are often not considered to be painful procedures. Any pain or discomfort felt during the surgery will be significantly reduced thanks to sedation. Patients can expect some discomfort and tightness during the initial stages of recovery, but this will subside over time. Dr. Landford will also temporarily prescribe you pain medication to alleviate any pain during this time.
Dr. Landford will have you schedule a follow-up appointment five to seven days after your Brachioplasty to assess your recovery and remove any sutures or bandages. You can anticipate another visit a few weeks later to ensure your satisfaction with the results and that you are healing properly. Most patients can expect between three and four follow-up appointments.

Dr. Landford will always inform you of when she would like for you to return at the end of each check-up.
While patients can witness immediate improvement in the shape of their arm after an Arm Lift, it can take several weeks to see the final full results. Swelling, bruising, and discomfort are to be expected during the post-operative recovery period. It’s important to note that Arm Lift Surgery will result in scarring, although the scars can often be easily concealed and fade over time.

One common concern among patients considering cosmetic procedures is the longevity of the results. With stable weight maintenance and a healthy lifestyle, the results of a traditional Arm Lift typically last for a decade or longer. We encourage patients to maintain a healthy lifestyle and follow post-operative care instructions to optimize the longevity of their Arm Lift results.

Patient Testimonials

A Transformative Journey of Empowerment

Schedule A Consultation