As we age or experience weight changes, the skin on our upper arms can lose its firmness. If you’ve ever avoided tank tops, short sleeves, or raising your arms in photos, you’re not alone. An arm lift procedure—also known as brachioplasty—offers a surgical solution to sagging or loose upper arms, helping you feel comfortable and confident in your skin again.

At Monarch Plastic Surgery & Skin Renewal Center in Sandy Springs, we perform advanced arm lift surgeries for women across Atlanta and Buckhead. Here’s what you should know about this transformative procedure and how it can help you love your reflection again.

What Is an Arm Lift?

An arm lift, or brachioplasty, is a body contouring procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the upper arms to create a smoother, more toned shape. The goal is not to make your arms look unnatural or tight—it’s to restore proportion and definition that fits your body’s natural contours.

This procedure is especially beneficial for women who:

• Have lost significant weight and are left with loose, hanging skin
• Notice sagging skin with age despite regular exercise and a healthy lifestyle
• Want to achieve improved definition that exercise alone cannot provide

To learn more about the surgical approach, visit the American Society of Plastic Surgeons’ Arm Lift overview.

What Causes Arm Skin Laxity?

Several factors contribute to loose upper arm skin:

• Aging: The skin naturally loses elasticity and firmness over time due to reduced collagen production.
• Weight changes: Significant fluctuations stretch the skin, making it difficult to retract fully after weight loss.
• Genetics: Some individuals are simply more predisposed to storing fat or developing laxity in this area.

Types of Arm Lift Procedures

Every body is different. At Monarch Plastic Surgery, our surgeons tailor your procedure to your anatomy and goals. Depending on how much skin and fat need to be removed, your surgeon may recommend one of the following:

1. Mini Arm Lift: Ideal for mild sagging. A small incision near the armpit tightens and smooths the upper arm with minimal downtime.
2. Traditional Arm Lift: The most common technique, involving an incision from the armpit to the elbow for more extensive skin removal.
3. Extended Arm Lift: Best for significant laxity after major weight loss; incisions may extend along the chest wall for comprehensive tightening.

Arm Lift vs. Liposuction

While both procedures improve arm contour, they target different issues. Liposuction removes unwanted fat but does not address loose skin, while an arm lift removes both skin and fat for a firm, sculpted look. For optimal results, some patients benefit from combining the two.

Your Consultation Experience

Your journey starts with a private consultation at our Sandy Springs office. Dr. Carmen Kavali or Dr. Teri Moak will take time to listen, assess your skin elasticity, and explain what’s possible. We’ll review your medical history, discuss your goals, and share examples from our before-and-after gallery. Together, we’ll create a customized surgical plan and outline recovery, costs, and realistic outcomes so you feel fully prepared.

What Happens During Surgery

Your arm lift will be performed under general anesthesia in our AAAASF-accredited surgical facility. Incisions are placed in discreet areas—typically along the inner arm—so scars are less noticeable once healed. Excess skin and fat are removed, tissues are tightened, and the incisions are closed with fine sutures. Compression garments are applied to minimize swelling and support healing. Most procedures take between one and three hours, depending on the complexity of the case.

Recovery and Healing

Recovery after brachioplasty varies for each patient but typically follows a predictable pattern. During the first few days, you may experience swelling, tightness, and limited mobility. Discomfort is managed with medication and rest. By the end of the first week, many patients feel ready to resume light daily activities. Over the following two to three weeks, bruising and swelling diminish. Most patients can return to non-strenuous work within three to four weeks and gradually resume exercise after six to eight weeks, with surgeon clearance. Final results become visible around the three- to six-month mark as swelling fully subsides.

Will There Be Scars?

All surgery leaves scars, but placement and care minimize their appearance. Our surgeons position incisions where they’re least visible and provide scar-care instructions including silicone therapy, topical creams, and laser treatments if desired. Over time, scars fade significantly and blend naturally with the surrounding skin.

Is an Arm Lift Right for You?

You may be a good candidate for an arm lift if you:

• Are close to your goal weight and maintain a stable lifestyle
• Have sagging skin or excess tissue on the upper arms
• Are in good general health and a non-smoker
• Understand the recovery process and have realistic expectations

If you have concerns limited mainly to excess fat without significant skin laxity, liposuction alone may be an option. Your surgeon will help you choose what fits your anatomy best.

Combining Arm Lift with Other Procedures

Many women combine their arm lift with other body contouring procedures for balanced results and a single recovery period. Options include a tummy tuck, breast lift, thigh lift, or lower body lift. Combining surgeries can enhance proportion while minimizing downtime.

The Confidence That Follows

Patients often describe their arm lift as life-changing—not just for how their arms look, but for how they feel. Many say they finally wear sleeveless clothing again, take photos confidently, and enjoy a new sense of freedom. These results go beyond aesthetics—they represent empowerment, self-assurance, and joy in feeling comfortable in your own body.

Why Choose Monarch Plastic Surgery

• Board-Certified Surgeons: Dr. Carmen Kavali and Dr. Teri Moak bring extensive expertise in aesthetic and reconstructive procedures.
• Personalized Planning: Every surgery is customized to your anatomy and goals, ensuring balanced, natural results.
• State-of-the-Art Facility: Our accredited center meets the highest standards for safety and patient care.
• Compassionate Environment: As an all-female-led team, we’re committed to providing understanding and supportive care from start to finish.

Take the Next Step Toward Confidence

If sagging upper arms are keeping you from feeling your best, an arm lift can restore comfort and confidence. Contact Monarch Plastic Surgery & Skin Renewal Center to begin your transformation. Call (404) 250-3333 or schedule your consultation online today.