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Brachioplasty, also known as an arm lift, is a cosmetic surgery procedure that removes excess skin and tissue from the upper arms to create a smoother, firmer, and more youthful contour. For many patients, this area becomes resistant to diet and exercise, especially after significant weight loss, aging, or weight fluctuations. When this skin no longer responds to your effort, arm lift surgery can help you feel more at home in your body again.
At Healy Plastic Surgery in Honolulu, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Jeff Healy performs brachioplasty with a careful blend of reconstructive surgery precision and aesthetic refinement. Whether you're struggling with “bat wings” or simply want your arms to match the rest of your progress, we offer safe, personalized treatment options that prioritize both your appearance and well-being.
Brachioplasty is a surgical procedure that reshapes the upper arms by removing excess skin and fat between the elbow and armpit. Over time, skin laxity from aging, weight changes, or genetics can leave the arms looking soft or sagging. Unfortunately, diet and exercise cannot correct this issue once the tissue has stretched beyond its ability to bounce back.
During the procedure, Dr. Healy makes a carefully placed incision—usually along the inner arm—to access and remove excess tissue, reshape the underlying support structures, and restore smoother contours. When needed, liposuction is used to further refine the result. For patients with skin that extends into the chest wall, an extended brachioplasty may be recommended.
Brachioplasty is performed under general anesthesia (or in rare cases, local anesthetic with sedation) in our AAAASF-accredited surgical suite. The procedure takes about 2-3 hours.
Key steps include:
A compression garment is applied post-op to minimize swelling and support healing.
Brachioplasty is often chosen to address:
This cosmetic surgery offers both functional and aesthetic improvement, helping patients feel more comfortable in their clothing—and their skin.
Standard brachioplasty procedures focus on the upper arms, but certain cases may extend treatment to the armpit and lateral chest wall. These are especially common in post-bariatric surgery patients or those with a significant amount of excess skin.
Patients often choose arm lift surgery for a combination of physical and emotional benefits:
For many, the biggest benefit is the return to confidence—and the freedom to wear what they like without hesitation.
Ideal candidates for brachioplasty surgery:
Dr. Healy will evaluate your medical history, lifestyle, and goals during a personal consultation to ensure you're a strong candidate for surgery.
Arm lift recovery takes place in stages. Most patients resume light activity and desk work within 7–10 days, but full return to exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided for four to six weeks.
During recovery:
Dr. Healy offers lifetime follow-up to monitor healing and ensure optimal results.
Results from brachioplasty are visible almost immediately after surgery, with continued improvement over four to six months as swelling resolves and the scar matures.
Long-term outcomes include:
Like any surgical procedure, individual results vary, but most patients enjoy long-lasting improvements and renewed confidence in how their arms look and feel.
Dr. Jeff Healy offers a unique blend of cosmetic and reconstructive surgery experience, having served over two decades as a military and trauma-trained plastic surgeon. At Healy Plastic Surgery, you receive honest guidance, expert surgical care, and a team that prioritizes safety, discretion, and results.
Why patients choose us:
Deep understanding of both aesthetics and structural balance
Yes, but it's placed along the inner arm and fades over time. Scar care and proper healing can reduce visibility significantly.
Yes. Many patients combine brachioplasty with a breast lift, thigh lift, or tummy tuck as part of post-weight loss surgery.
Maintain a stable weight, stop smoking, and follow pre-op instructions. Dr. Healy’s team will guide you through every step.
All surgeries carry some risk, including infection, nerve injury, or surgical complications. Dr. Healy’s meticulous technique and follow-up care help minimize these.
You can usually return to light exercise after four weeks and full activity around six weeks, depending on your healing.
