NEW YORK, NY

Arm Lift

Arm Lift Introduction

Sagging upper arms is a very common frustration, especially in women. The upper arms are stubborn for weight loss, and it can be difficult to build muscle mass there. Many have tried dieting, exercise, and non-surgical approaches to improve the upper arm appearance, but without the desired results. Board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon, Dr. Bianca Molina specializes in arm lift surgery and many other procedures at Bianca Molina Plastic Surgery in New York, NY. Arm lift surgery is reviewed below, including your suitability for the procedure, its benefits, procedure details, recovery process, and more.

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What is an Arm Lift?

An arm lift, also known as Brachioplasty, is a cosmetic surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the upper arm, resulting in a more toned and contoured look. This is performed to address sagging skin in the upper arms that can arise from a combination of sudden weight loss, aging, or genetics. Arm Lift scars are hidden on the inner surface of the arm, running from the upper armpit area to above the elbow. Some patients are also candidates for a short-scar arm lift, which leaves a shorter scar at the upper inner surface of the arm compared to traditional Brachioplasty. The goal of an arm lift procedure is to improve the appearance of the upper arms, creating a more contoured and youthful look.

What are the benefits of an Arm Lift?

Our patients who have undergone arm lift surgery shared some life-enhancing benefits, some of which are listed below:

  • Easier movement
  • Improved appearance in clothing
  • Boosted self-confidence
  • Enhanced arm proportions
  • Improved arm contours
  • Increased arm tightness
  • Decreased tiredness from heavy arms

Who Are The Best Candidates For an Arm Lift Surgery?

The best candidates for arm lift surgery, are individuals who have tried diet and exercise, and are at their goal weight, but cannot get rid of the excess fat and skin in their upper arms. Some characteristics of these candidates include:

  • Aging individuals
  • Individuals with sudden, significant weight loss
  • No underlying medical conditions
  • Post-bariatric surgery patients
  • Those with hereditary sagging upper arms
  • Those with stabilized weight
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Arm Lift First Step

What’s the first step?

The first step in pursuing your Arm Lift is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Molina. During this initial appointment, you can discuss your concerns, goals, and expectations for the procedure. Dr. Molina will examine your arms, your skin tightness, and muscle tone and discuss your ideal goals for the surgery. This is a good time to share any medical history or past surgeries with her. Dr. Molina will then explain the surgical technique involved, the potential risks and complications, and the expected outcomes.

If you’re ready to move forward with the procedure, our Concierge Team will provide you with a detailed plan for the surgery including the surgical timeline, and preoperative & postoperative instructions. 

What to Expect on the Day of Arm Lift Surgery

On the day of your arm lift surgery, you will arrive at an accredited ambulatory surgery center where you will be greeted by Dr. Molina and the surgical team. The procedure is performed under general anesthesia and administered by a certified anesthesiologist who will ensure your comfort throughout the procedure.

Dr. Molina will carefully make incisions along the inner surface of your upper arms, removing excess skin and fat. She will then reshape and tighten the underlying tissue to create a tighter, more toned, and defined appearance.

She will then close the incision with sutures and wrap your arms with a compression dressing. You may or may not have surgical drains.

The length of the procedure can vary, but on average, arm lift surgery takes approximately 2 hours. When finished, you will be closely monitored in the recovery room and provided with detailed post-operative instructions for a smooth recovery.

Arm Lift Recovery

After an arm lift procedure, it is normal to experience some discomfort, swelling, and bruising. It is important to follow the instructions provided by Dr. Molina, which may include wearing compression garments, elevating your arms while you rest, and taking the prescribed medications. Drains are typically removed within the first week after surgery. Dr. Molina sees all arm lift patients on the day after surgery and then on a pre-determined schedule to ensure your healing is closely monitored.

 Please pay attention to the post-operative instructions to ensure a smooth recovery, including minimal physical activity in the weeks that follow and attending all your follow-up appointments.

Arm Lift Cost

How Much Does Arm Lift Cost In New York City, NY?

The cost of an arm lift in New York, NY can vary depending on several factors, including the complexity of the procedure, the techniques used, and any other added factors. It is best to schedule a consultation with Dr. Molina to discuss your specific goals to receive a personalized surgical plan and a price quote from our Concierge Team.

Why Choose Dr. Molina?

Dr. Molina is a board-certified, award-winning plastic surgeon with over ten years of surgical experience and has spent years serving patients in some of New York’s most reputable hospitals. A well-published and active participant in the plastic surgery community, she has dedicated her life to learning, sharing, and improving the field of plastic and reconstructive surgery. With this level of personal attention to the field and her work, you can be sure that your experience at Bianca Molina Plastic Surgery will mirror the dedication to quality that Dr. Bianca Molina holds.

Dr. Molina is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and a proud diplomat of the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS).

dr molina Bianca | Molina Plastic surgery New York

Arm Lift FAQ’S

Schedule a Consultation

If you’d like to tighten your upper arms for better self-esteem and a rejuvenated appearance, consider scheduling a consultation for an arm lift in New York at Bianca Molina Plastic Surgery.


Please contact our office to request an appointment, and our Concierge Team will reach out to you and help you take the first step toward a more youthful appearance!

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