In 2024, approximately 245,000 arm lift (brachioplasty) procedures were performed worldwide, with the U.S. accounting for the majority of these. The sight of loose, sagging skin on the upper arms can be more than just a physical concern. It can deeply affect self-esteem, leading to avoidance of social events, reluctance to work out in public, and a constant feeling of insecurity in wearing fitted or sleeveless clothing. This emotional strain is precisely why arm lift surgery, enhanced with liposuction techniques at Edina Plastic Surgery, can be both physically and psychologically transformative.
“When we think of the positive, psychological benefits that plastic surgery can have on a patient’s life, it’s easy to gravitate towards procedures like facelift, breast augmentation, or body lift,” says Dr. Brian Kobienia, a board-certified plastic surgeon and partner at Edina Plastic Surgery. “Absolutely, these procedures can be game changers, but I am continuously reminded of how loose skin on the upper arms can dramatically impact a patient’s self-confidence. So much so in fact, that I have worked with patients who haven’t worn any short-sleeved clothing for decades because they are so self-conscious about their arms. Arm lift surgery, especially when combined with liposuction, can completely transform a patient’s upper arms and make them feel not just confident but proud to have their arms on display again.”
What Is Arm Lift Surgery (Brachioplasty)?
Arm lift surgery, or brachioplasty, is a procedure that surgically removes excess skin and fat from the upper arm. It addresses the area extending from the underarm to the elbow to create a smoother, more contoured upper arm. Incisions are made along the inner or back side of the arm. Excess tissue is then excised, underlying layers are lifted, and the remaining skin is tightened around the new contour to create a slimmer, more defined upper arm.
“A couple of different factors govern the elasticity of our skin, but one of the most impactful is the production of collagen, elastin, and other proteins in our bodies,” explains Dr. Kobienia. “The other is the deposit of unwanted fat in the upper arm area. Unfortunately, fluctuations in weight, growing older, and even heredity can cause a loss of collagen and excess fat deposits. This results in upper arms that appear flabby or loose.”
“Exercise may strengthen and improve the underlying muscle tone of the upper arm, but it cannot address excess skin that has lost elasticity or has underlying weakened tissues and localized fat deposits,” continues Dr. Kobienia. “Fortunately, brachioplasty can address these issues effectively. If the underside of your upper arms is sagging or appears loose and full due to excess skin and fat, an arm lift may be right for you.”
What Is Liposuction?
Liposuction is a minimally invasive procedure designed to remove stubborn subcutaneous fat that resists diet and exercise. Your plastic surgeon uses a cannula to suction fat through small incisions. Though effective in fat removal, traditional liposuction does not address skin laxity, so combining it with an arm lift or advanced technologies can significantly enhance results.
At Edina Plastic Surgery, our board-certified surgeons employ advanced liposuction techniques to carefully sculpt areas like the upper arms, ensuring both safety and aesthetic outcomes.
“It is rare to find an arm lift patient who would not also benefit from the fat removal and contouring benefits of liposuction,” stresses Dr. Kobienia. “Unless a patient is extremely thin with only loose, deflated skin on the upper arms, liposuction can dramatically enhance the overall outcome of arm lift surgery. In addition, Edina Plastic Surgery now offers LipoAI, an advanced, AI-assisted form of liposuction that also tightens skin as it removes fat. Arm lift with LipoAI is a powerful duo for completely transforming the appearance of a patient’s upper arms.”
3 Ways Liposuction Enhances Arm Lift Outcomes
#1 – Liposuction debulks excess volume and fat to allow more skin to be removed during arm lift surgery
Pre-excisional liposuction reduces subcutaneous fat volume, allowing for a more thorough skin removal. By addressing underlying fat first, the skin adaptation becomes tighter and more natural, resulting in improved scar placement and reduced incision length.
#2 – Liposuction significantly enhances the definition and athletic contour that can be achieved with arm lift surgery
“When liposuction is performed before arm lift surgery, it can define underlying arm musculature by removing the fat surrounding it,” explains Dr. Kobienia. “This can significantly enhance the overall tone and definition of the upper arm after excess skin is removed. Instead of just tightening skin, the combination treatment creates arms that look athletic and contoured—highlighting the bicep and tricep structure for a youthful, sculpted appearance.”
#3 – Advanced Skin Tightening with LipoAI
Edina Plastic Surgery proudly offers LipoAI, a laser-assisted liposuction system integrating artificial intelligence to dissolve and remove fat while simultaneously stimulating collagen for skin tightening. Key advantages include:
- Collagen Stimulation & Skin Retraction: Laser energy induces collagen remodeling, tightening skin in the treated area.
- AI-Guided Precision: The device dynamically adjusts energy delivery for safety and efficacy.
- Less Trauma, Swelling & Bruising: Laser-assisted fat liquefaction allows for gentler suction and faster healing.
“The addition of LipoAI to our practice has been a game changer,” says Dr. Kobienia. “When combined with brachioplasty, LipoAI helps minimize tissue trauma and promotes better long-term skin tone—allowing our surgeons to sometimes reduce excess skin removed or, in cases of mild laxity, avoid a full lift altogether.”
During a complimentary consultation at Edina Plastic Surgery, patients with mild skin laxity but significant fat deposits may find that LipoAI alone achieves their goals. Ideal candidates are:
- Near ideal weight with minimal loose skin
- Desire subtle skin firming alongside fat reduction
- Prefer a less invasive procedure with quicker recovery
“LipoAI alone can produce defined, tighter results—often negating the need for a full arm lift in certain, but not all patients,” advises Dr. Kobienia. “A proper assessment during your consultation will allow your surgeon to determine if you are a candidate for LipoAI alone or would benefit from combining it with a full arm lift procedure.”
Recovery After Combined Arm Lift & Liposuction
The entire recovery process from an arm lift with liposuction is expected to take about two to three weeks to complete. Any lingering symptoms like minor pain, discomfort, redness, swelling, and soreness will all dissipate rapidly over that time period.
It is normal to have compression garments placed over your incisions after the surgery to help prevent excess fluid from building up. It is also normal for surgeons to place a drainage tube to achieve the same result.
0–2 Weeks: Acute Healing Phase
- Patients commonly experience swelling, bruising, and mild to moderate soreness.
- Compression garments are worn continuously during this time, and drainage tubes may be in place for 3–7 days to reduce fluid buildup.
- Light work and daily tasks around the house can usually resume in the first week.
2–6 Weeks: Intermediate Recovery
- The patient experiences a significant reduction in swelling.
- Drains are usually removed by day 10.
- Patients keep incisions taped or, in some cases, may begin scar care like silicone sheets.
- More strenuous activities are allowed.
6–12 Weeks and Beyond: Refinement Phase
- Continued collagen remodeling from LipoAI improves skin texture.
- Scars gradually fade from pink to light, becoming less visible over time.
- Final results emerge as swelling fully resolves—typically within 3–6 months.
- Patients can resume weight-lifting arm exercises at 6-8 weeks.
Emotional & Lifestyle Benefits
Combining brachioplasty with liposuction isn’t just physical—it’s a confidence boost! Patients often experience:
- Renewed wardrobe freedom—embracing sleeveless tops, swimsuits, and fitted activewear
- Increased self-esteem in photos, social settings, and fitness activities
- Psychological relief from long-standing self-consciousness about arm appearance
“The results of arm lift surgery with liposuction are long-lasting, provided that you maintain a stable weight and general level of fitness,” says Dr. Kobienia. “As your body ages, it is natural to lose some firmness, but most of your improvement should be relatively permanent. I’ve seen many patients take their results to the next level by incorporating weight training after surgery to add even more contour and definition to their upper arms. Almost everyone comments on how they ran out to buy tank tops and sleeveless shirts for the first time in years after their surgery. This is always so rewarding to hear as a plastic surgeon because you know the surgery you performed didn’t just change something physical about your patient, it also transformed their confidence and enhanced their everyday life.”
Why Choose Edina Plastic Surgery for Arm Lift Surgery?
Edina Plastic Surgery stands apart through:
- Expertise: Board-certified surgeons using the latest in body-contouring techniques.
- Innovative Technology: Adoption of LipoAI for superior sculpting and tightening.
- Comprehensive Care: Detailed evaluations to determine if a full lift, LipoAI, or hybrid approach suits each patient’s anatomy and goals.
Take the First Step Toward Confident, Sculpted Arms
Are you ready to feel confident and look your best in every outfit? Sleeveless or otherwise?
Schedule your complimentary consultation at Edina Plastic Surgery today. Our expert team will assess your arm goals—fat, skin, and muscle—and design a personalized plan tailored to your needs. Whether it’s a classic arm lift, laser-assisted LipoAI, or a combined technique, we’ll guide you through your journey with care, expertise, and compassion.
Call (952) 925‑1765 or click here to book your consult with Dr. Brian Kobienia and take your first step toward arms you’ll love.
