Upper arm lift (brachioplasty) The upper arm is often a problem area for middle aged women and individuals who have had major weight fluctuations. Brachioplasty is a procedure that can tighten the loose skin of the upper arm and remove some of the excess fat. Brachioplasty is accomplished by excision of a long wedge of excess skin and fat from the medial arm, from the elbow to the axilla (underarm area). The resultant scar is located on the inner aspect of the upper arm. Although good healing is expected, this scar can sometimes be quite noticeable with sleeveless clothing. Compressive sleeves worn for about two weeks after surgery help minimize swelling and bruising and help promote good healing. Some patients benefit from liposuction alone of the upper arm. The liposuction is done circumferentially in both the deep and the superficial layer of fat. This promotes some retraction and tightening of the skin. Following liposuction of this area, patients need to wear compressive sleeves for 4 to 6 weeks to promote good healing. At your initial consultation, I will examine your arms and check your skin tone and decide with procedure would be best for you. A written price quote will be given at this time. Upper arm procedures are done under a general anesthetic at Seattle Surgery Center which is conveniently located next door to my office. You may go home the same day as your surgery. Most patients take a week off of work and most are able to return to normal activities in 4 to 6 weeks.