Arm Lift in Carmel & Indianapolis
Remove excess upper-arm skin and restore a slimmer, firmer arm contour after weight loss or aging with Indiana's leading board-certified practice.
What Is an Arm Lift (Brachioplasty)?
A brachioplasty — commonly called an arm lift — is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin from the upper arm, typically from the underarm area to the elbow. This excess skin, often described as "bat wings," develops after significant weight loss, bariatric surgery, or as a result of aging and loss of skin elasticity. It cannot be corrected through exercise or non-surgical treatments once the skin has lost its elasticity.
During the procedure, excess skin (and any accompanying fat) is removed through an incision placed on the inside of the upper arm, where it is least visible. The remaining skin is redraped and closed to create a smoother, firmer arm contour. The scar, while permanent, is positioned to minimize visibility when the arms are at rest.
At My Plastic Surgery Group, arm lift surgery is frequently performed as part of a post-weight-loss body contouring plan — often combined with a lower body lift, tummy tuck, or thigh lift.
Arm Lift Technique and Incision Placement
The arm lift incision runs along the inside of the upper arm — from the armpit toward the elbow. The length depends on the amount of excess skin being removed. The inside placement keeps the scar less visible when your arms are at rest and nearly hidden when viewed from the front.
If only moderate skin laxity exists, a shorter incision limited to the armpit area (mini brachioplasty) may be appropriate. Dr. Aker will recommend the technique best suited to your anatomy and the degree of correction you need. Liposuction is frequently performed at the same time to remove any excess fat along the inner arm and achieve optimal contouring.
Who Is a Candidate for an Arm Lift?
Arm lift surgery is best suited for patients who meet the following criteria. Patients with only mild fullness and good skin elasticity may be candidates for liposuction alone, without a formal arm lift — Dr. Aker will evaluate your anatomy during consultation.
- Significant upper-arm skin laxity — excess skin that hangs from the underarm area
- Skin laxity resulting from significant weight loss, bariatric surgery, or aging
- Diet-resistant arm appearance that has not improved with exercise
- Stable weight — not actively losing weight, as continued loss may affect results
- Nicotine-free — smoking impairs healing and increases complication risk
- Good general health with realistic expectations
You Don't Recover Alone
After surgery, you're driven to our dedicated recovery suite at Home2 Suites by Hilton in Carmel, where one of our caregivers — Evelyn, Lori, or Charmaine — meets you in the lobby and provides monitored overnight care, with a direct line to Dr. Aker, Dr. Beckman, and PA Amanda. You're never sent home to an empty house.
Learn About the Recovery SuiteArm Lift Recovery Timeline
Recovery from brachioplasty is well-tolerated by most patients. Key milestones include:
- First week: rest and limited arm use; swelling and bruising are normal and begin resolving within days
- Return to work: light desk work is typically possible within 1–2 weeks
- Compression garment: worn on the arms for several weeks to minimize swelling and support healing
- Heavy lifting: restricted for 4–6 weeks — no strenuous arm exercise until cleared at follow-up
- Scar maturation: scars soften and fade over 12–18 months with proper scar care
Arm Lift Cost in Indiana
Standard pricing varies with the extent of skin removal and whether liposuction is combined. A consultation is required for a personalized quote — financing options available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the scar from an arm lift?
Can liposuction alone improve my arms?
How long is arm lift recovery?
Will I have permanent scarring?
Can an arm lift be combined with other procedures?
Take the Next Step Toward Slimmer, Firmer Arms
Schedule your arm lift consultation with Dr. John Aker or Dr. Di Beckman in Carmel, Indiana. 4.8★ rated · Board-certified · Post-weight-loss contouring specialists.