How Much Does An Arm Lift Cost?

Plastic surgery is available in many forms these days. Among the variety of aesthetic procedures available is the arm lift (also known as brachioplasty). This elective surgery is most commonly employed to remove extra skin from the upper arm(s)and/or underarms of an extreme weight-loss patient. It is also an option for those who want the area trimmed, but for whom liposuction is not an option. Arm lift cost is determined largely in part by the size of the area needing attention, but prices fluctuate from place to place. The cost of an arm lift is commonly in the range of $3,000 to $7,000, with the average falling near $4,000. Both arms are commonly done at once, and are covered in the overall arm lift surgery cost. However, the cost of an arm lift may only represent the surgeon’s fees; other expenses such as medical facility fees, the cost of anesthesia, recovery items, and medications will have to be considered along with the procedural arm lift cost. Before deciding if an arm lift is right for you, be sure to contemplate the pros and cons of the procedure. On the up side, you may benefit from increased confidence, and the often-uncomfortable feeling of dragging arm skin (sometimes referred to as “bat wings”) may be alleviated.

Arm lifts, like any form of plastic surgery, come with high risks. The most common issue with brachioplasty is the scarring left behind. An ugly scar can nullify any positive outcome as far as cosmetics go. More importantly, an arm lift may result in any number of medical complications including tissue damage, long-term pain, and blood clots. Major swelling is likely to occur (and may spread to the hands) and a small tube may even need to be placed under the skin to drain excess fluid and blood. With these risks, arm lift cost can be more than just money. Another important consideration is the experience and validity of the potential surgeon. Cost can vary according to physician experience, but this is not always worth the reduction in the cost of an arm lift. Research all potential surgeons thoroughly before you weigh this option. As with any form of surgery, especially of the cosmetic type, be sure to find an accredited doctor. Failure to do so will almost certainly result in major damage to the area, and quite possibly death.

Upper Arm Lift

An arm lift reduces the skin (and sometimes fat) from the upper arm. It is important to know that arm lifts are intended to treat excess skin and not fat, even though some fat may be removed. It is worth checking into liposuction, as an alternative to an arm lift if fat is your main concern. Liposuction cost is typically cheaper than arm lift cost, and is likely to result in much smaller scars and reduced recovery time. General anesthesia is commonly used during these procedures, though other options like intravenous sedation are available. Most arm lift incisions extend from the skin area just above the elbow to the under arm. They are usually placed on the inside or underside of the arm, so that the scar has the best chance of being hidden during interactions. Liposuction may be used if fat is to be removed during the surgery, or the fat may be excised. A large amount of fat removal is likely to increase the cost of arm lifts. In another type of arm lift, the cut may be smaller and/or reduced solely to the under arm area. Arm lift cost and type is directly related to the factors necessitating the surgery (necessity is relative in this sense, as cosmetic surgery is often elective). The average recovery time for an upper arm lift is 1-2 weeks, though you may be asked to refrain from strenuous physical activity for 2-4 weeks.

Under Arm Lift

Upper arm lifts are usually performed on the underside of the upper arm. This incision may be extended to the under arm and even to the chest. If the under arm is of concern on its own, you may be better served by liposuction. An under arm lift (or any arm lift) should only be performed in circumstances where loose under arm skin is a problem, and may extend along the side of the chest if necessary. The cost of an arm lift in this area is comparable to other types of arm lifts, depending on the size and severity of the suspect area.