Upper Arm Lift Surgery (Brachioplasty) in Raleigh, NC
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Contact UsAbout Arm Lift Surgery
One of the most frustrating side effects from losing weight or getting older is dealing with loose skin. At Lyle Plastic Surgery & Aesthetics Center, we offer arm lift surgery (also called brachioplasty) as an intervention for people who cannot seem to tone or tighten this part of the arm with natural methods. Excess skin from the elbow to the upper arm is very common, especially for people who are getting older or have lost significant amounts of weight. Dr. Glenn Lyle, our Raleigh, NC plastic surgeon, is very knowledgeable in skin tightening and fat removal procedures, and he performs private consultations for upper arm lift surgery. If you would like to learn more about how arm lift surgery can change the appearance of your arms, please contact us for a consultation at Lyle Plastic Surgery & Aesthetics Center today.
Ideal Candidates
An arm lift is a procedure using innovative techniques to improve the arm and eliminate unwanted skin to tone its sagging appearance. If you are tired of hiding your flabby arms and want them to look healthy and fit again, you are a great candidate for an arm lift. You should be in good overall health so that your body will heal well. Some key indicators for potential arm lift candidates are loose, hanging skin on the upper arms and skin that is not taut. It is crucial that you be at or close to a healthy, stable weight prior to your surgery.
Surgical Technique
In most cases, your upper arm surgery will take place in an outpatient setting and is often combined with other procedures. An arm lift can be done with breast procedures as well as body procedures including a tummy tuck, thigh lift, or mommy makeover — if Dr. Lyle decides it is appropriate. An upper arm lift is usually performed under general anesthesia and may take up to 2 hours to complete. The excessive skin and fat will be surgically removed from the elbow to the underarm. The incision will be as hidden as much possible, but it will become a visible scar. If liposuction is needed to remove stubborn pockets of fat, this will be performed as well. Once the skin is tightened, it will be sutured together. You will need to keep the incisions cleaned, covered, and supported with compression garments.
What to Expect
Your recovery period may last an estimated two weeks with prolonged arm elevation and giving yourself time to heal. You use your arms for many things, so many of Dr. Lyle's brachioplasty patients slowly make their way back into their daily routines within a few weeks. Dr. Lyle's patients are seen at the one-week mark to check healling. Sutures are dissolablel . Compression garments should be worn until you are released by Dr. Lyle.
Arm Lift Reviews
I am so grateful for Dr. Lyle and his staff. He has done several procedures on me that turned out wonderful and made me more confidant. My first procedure was extra fat and skin removal from my thighs that gave me the confidence to wear my skinny jeans. In December I received a brachioplasty and my results were amazing! The third procedure was a mini tummy tuck which was a revision from a tummy tuck I received from another practice that I definitely was not happy with. I had confidence that Dr. Lyle would fix this issue and I was 100 percent correct. Dr, Lyle and his staff are very professional as well as warm and welcoming. Thank you Dr. Lyle for giving me a body that I am estatic about and the confidence to wear anything that I want. I recommend Dr. Lyle 110 percent. He is amazing. I also want to add that all of my procedures were done under local anesthesia and I was comfortable through out the procedures! Thank you Dr. Lyle and your staff for giving me a new take on life and living!
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Get Back Your Shape
Whatever you call your "bat wings" or droopy skin on your arms, Dr. Glenn Lyle sees it as an opportunity to change your appearance with plastic surgery. If you are at or close to a healthy, stable weight and still cannot get rid of the flab and skin that hang from your upper arms, please call and schedule a private appointment at Lyle Plastic Surgery & Aesthetics Center. Look and feel younger and fitter with upper arm lift surgery.
Arm Lift Extra Frequently Asked Questions
Everyday Life After an Arm Lift
Q: Can I sleep on my side after an arm lift?
A: Most patients are advised to sleep on their back with arms elevated for the first few weeks. Side sleeping may strain healing incisions. Dr. Lyle’s team will let you know when it’s safe to return to your usual sleep position.
Q: When can I lift my kids or pets after an arm lift?
A: You’ll need to avoid lifting anything heavy—including children or pets—for at least 3 to 4 weeks. Healing arms need rest. Dr. Lyle will provide a clear timeline based on your recovery progress.
Q: Can I wear deodorant after an arm lift?
A: Not right away. You'll want to avoid applying deodorant near the incision area until it's fully closed and irritation-free. Most patients wait about 2 weeks or longer. Dr. Lyle’s aftercare guide will include product recommendations.
Q: Will I be able to wear sleeveless clothes confidently after healing?
A: Yes, that’s one of the main benefits of an arm lift. Most patients in Raleigh say they feel more comfortable wearing tank tops and short sleeves after surgery, especially once scars fade. Unfortunately- all incisions result in scars and the arm lift scar cannot be completely hidden. Dr.Lyle plans his incisions so that they are in the least noticeable location on the arm.
Fitness, Clothing & Lifestyle
Q: How soon can I go back to the gym or lift weights after an arm lift?
A: Light activity can start after a few weeks, but upper body workouts are usually off-limits for 6–8 weeks. Dr. Lyle will give you custom clearance based on your healing speed.
Q: Are compression sleeves necessary after an arm lift?
A: Yes, wearing compression garments helps reduce swelling and support the arms as they heal. Dr. Lyle provides guidance on fit, wear time, and the best brands for post-surgical comfort.
Q: What kind of clothes should I wear after an arm lift?
A: Loose, front-button shirts or zip-ups are ideal. Avoid anything tight or that you have to pull over your head. Comfort and easy access are key during recovery.
Emotional & Practical Concerns
Q: What’s the emotional impact of getting an arm lift?
A: Many patients say the procedure improves their self-esteem and confidence, especially when wearing fitted clothes. It’s normal to feel emotional ups and downs during recovery, and Dr. Lyle’s team supports you every step of the way.
Q: Can I combine an arm lift with other procedures?
A: Yes, many patients combine arm lifts with tummy tucks, breast surgery, or body contouring. Dr. Lyle can discuss the best plan for your body goals during your consultation.
Q: Is arm lift surgery worth it if I’m over 60?
A: Absolutely. Good candidates are determined by health and skin condition, not just age. Dr. Lyle has performed brachioplasty on many patients in their 60s and 70s who were thrilled with their results.
Unique Patient Questions
Q: Will my tattoos be affected by an arm lift?
A: If your tattoo is near the upper inner arm, it may be partially removed or distorted depending on incision placement. Dr. Lyle will map out where cuts are made and discuss any impact on body art.
Q: What happens if I lose more weight after an arm lift?
A: Minor weight loss likely won’t affect your results, but significant loss could lead to new skin laxity. If you’re still losing weight, Dr. Lyle may recommend waiting until you’re stable for the best long-term outcome.
Q: Can I fly or travel after an arm lift?
A: It's best to avoid flying for the first 1–2 weeks. Long flights can increase swelling and risk of clots. If you’re traveling from outside Raleigh, plan to stay nearby for post-op follow-ups with Dr. Lyle.
Q: Will insurance cover an arm lift after massive weight loss?
A: In most cases, arm lifts are considered cosmetic and not covered. However, if you’ve lost a significant amount of weight and have medical issues like rashes, it may be partially covered. Dr. Lyle’s office can help check with your provider.
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About UsArm Lift FAQs
Are the results of brachioplasty permanent?
The results are long-lasting, but they can be affected by factors like aging, weight fluctuations, and lifestyle choices. Maintaining a stable weight and healthy habits helps prolong the results.
Will there be visible scars after brachioplasty?
Yes, brachioplasty involves incisions, typically along the underside of the arm, which result in scars. These scars tend to fade over time and can be minimized with proper aftercare and scar treatment options.
How can I prepare for a brachioplasty procedure?
Preparation typically involves a consultation to review your medical history, stop smoking if applicable, and avoid certain medications like blood thinners. Your surgeon may also provide specific instructions regarding diet and post-operative care.