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Arm Lift (Brachioplasty) Surgery in Sydney

Personalised brachioplasty (arm lift) surgery to address excess upper arm skin at COSMEX Clinic, Sydney.
  • Individualised arm lift treatment plans
  • Experienced specialist surgical team
  • Comprehensive pre- and post-operative care
  • Accredited hospital facilities in Sydney

Overview

An Arm Lift (brachioplasty) is a surgical procedure that may be considered to address excess skin and/or tissue of the upper arms. Some people seek assessment after significant weight change, ageing-related skin laxity, or when exercise has not changed the appearance of loose skin. The procedure involves incisions and results in scarring. A consultation is required to confirm suitability and to discuss expected changes and limitations, scarring, risks, recovery, and alternatives.

Before and After Images

The outcomes shown are only relevant for this patient and do not necessarily reflect the results other patients may experience, as results may vary due to many factors including the individual’s genetics, diet and exercise.

*It is important to note that individual results vary depending on factors such as anatomy, skin quality, surgical approach and healing response. The images shown are not intended to guarantee or predict the outcome of any procedure.

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About This Procedure

Brachioplasty is a body contouring operation that removes excess skin and, in selected cases, excess fatty tissue from the upper arm. The incision pattern depends on the amount and location of excess skin and may extend from the underarm toward the elbow. In some cases, liposuction may be used as part of the surgical plan where clinically appropriate. All surgery leaves permanent scars, and scar visibility varies between individuals.

Key Benefits

Arm Lift may assist with body contouring and reduction of excess skin where clinically appropriate. Individual outcomes vary depending on anatomy, skin quality, and healing.

  • Reduction of loose upper-arm skin: where clinically appropriate.
  • Change in upper-arm contour: results vary and depend on skin elasticity and healing.
  • Clothing comfort considerations: some people report changes in how sleeves fit; this varies.

Ideal Candidate

A suitable candidate is generally an adult seeking assessment for upper-arm skin laxity and/or excess tissue, and who is in good overall health. Suitability depends on general health, nutritional status, smoking status, weight stability, skin quality, and individual risk factors. Candidates should have realistic expectations about scarring, recovery time, and variability in outcomes. A consultation is required to confirm suitability.

  • Have excess upper-arm skin that you would like assessed

  • Are in good overall physical health

  • Are in good overall physical health

  • Do not smoke or are willing to stop nicotine use for a specified period before and after surgery (as directed)

  • Understand that scarring is expected and outcomes vary

Techniques & Approaches

The specific surgical approach is selected based on individual anatomy, goals, and clinical assessment. Your surgeon will discuss the most appropriate technique during your consultation.

Limited-incision brachioplasty:

may be considered when skin excess is mild and mainly near the underarm.

Standard brachioplasty:

commonly involves an incision along the inner or back aspect of the upper arm; the length varies with the amount of skin removal required.

Brachioplasty with liposuction (selected cases):

liposuction may be used to address fatty tissue where appropriate, either as part of the arm lift or as a staged approach.

Licensed Surgical Facilities:

Procedures are performed in appropriately licensed facilities with qualified anaesthetic support, post-operative monitoring, and adherence to Australian surgical standards.

Anesthesia

Brachioplasty is commonly performed under general anaesthesia, though local anaesthesia with sedation may be considered in selected cases depending on the extent of surgery and facility protocols. The anaesthesia plan will be discussed during consultation.

What we will cover in consultation

Your medical practitioner will explain:

  • Discussion of your goals and concerns regarding arm lift
  • Thorough medical history and physical examination
  • Assessment of your individual anatomy and suitability
  • Explanation of the proposed surgical approach and alternatives
  • Discussion of expected outcomes, risks, and recovery

Your surgeon will explain recommended incision placement, expected scarring, and the trade-offs of each approach during consultation.

Possible Risks and Complications

As with any surgical procedure, arm lift carries potential risks and complications. The likelihood and nature of these vary between individuals and depend on factors including anatomy, medical history, and surgical approach. Your surgeon will discuss risks specific to your situation during your consultation.

Potential risks and complications may include:

Potential risks and complications may include Infection – may require antibiotic treatment, Bleeding or haematoma formation – may require further intervention, Adverse reaction to anaesthesia, Scarring – individual scar outcomes vary, Asymmetry or contour irregularities, Changes in skin sensation – may be temporary or permanent, Wound healing delays – more common in smokers, Need for revision surgery in some cases. Your surgeon will discuss risks specific to your situation during consultation.

Preparation typically includes:

Preparation typically includes:

Medical review: health history, medications and supplements, and relevant investigations where required.
Medication guidance: you may be asked to stop certain medications/supplements that can increase bleeding risk (where clinically appropriate).
Nicotine cessation: nicotine can impair healing; you may be asked to stop smoking/vaping/nicotine products for a specified period before and after surgery.
Fasting instructions: follow the facility’s requirements prior to anaesthesia.
Support planning: arrange transport and post-operative support after discharge.

Recovery Milestones

Week 1

Following arm lift, you will be monitored in recovery. Some discomfort, swelling, and bruising are expected and vary between individuals.

Week 2

Initial healing occurs during this period. Rest is important and activity should be limited. Follow your surgeon’s specific post-operative instructions carefully.

Week 2 - 6

Gradual return to light activities as advised by your surgeon. Swelling and bruising typically continue to subside. Individual recovery timelines vary.

Week 6 - 12

Most patients are able to resume normal activities including exercise, as cleared by their surgeon. Residual swelling may persist and varies between individuals.

3 - 12 Months

Final results continue to develop as tissues settle. Scars mature and fade over 12-18 months, though individual scar outcomes vary.

Pricing & Estimate

The cost of arm lift varies depending on the surgical approach, complexity, and whether additional procedures are recommended. A personalised quote is provided following your consultation once your individual treatment plan has been determined. All fees, including surgeon, anaesthetist, and hospital costs, are outlined before you proceed.

Disclaimer

Prices vary based on individual assessment. A personalised quote will be provided during consultation.

Starting From

Available on consultation

Indicative pricing only

Final exact cost will be confirmed after consultation.

Why Choose Us

At COSMEX, we combine advanced surgical expertise with personalized care to deliver natural, confident results. Your safety, comfort, and satisfaction are always our priority.

Specialist Plastic Surgeons

Our surgeons hold Fellowship of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Each procedure is performed by qualified specialists with extensive training in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery. You are welcome to verify your surgeon's credentials via the AHPRA public register.

Accredited Surgical Facilities

All surgical procedures are performed in licensed, accredited hospitals in Sydney. Our facilities meet Australian standards for theatre safety, anaesthesia, infection control, and emergency care. Your safety is the foundation of every treatment plan.

Individualised Care

No two patients are the same. Every treatment plan at COSMEX is developed following a thorough one-on-one consultation where your anatomy, concerns, goals, and medical history are carefully assessed. You will receive a personalised recommendation — not a standardised package.

Structured Aftercare and Follow-Up

Your care continues well beyond the day of your procedure. COSMEX provides a structured aftercare program including scheduled follow-up appointments, access to your surgical team for questions during recovery, and long-term monitoring where clinically indicated.

Video FAQs

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Frequently Asked Questions

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