Brachioplasty

Minimal Incision (Mini) Brachioplasty

Ideal for patients with very mild skin laxity confined strictly to the upper inner arm near the armpit. The incision is hidden entirely within the axilla (underarm crease), resulting in no visible scar on the arm itself.

Standard Brachioplasty

The most common approach for moderate to severe laxity. An incision is made along the inner surface or back of the arm, extending from the armpit to just above the elbow, allowing for comprehensive skin tightening and fat removal.

Extended Brachioplasty

Designed for massive weight loss patients. The incision extends from the elbow, through the armpit, and down onto the lateral chest wall to remove excess skin that extends from the arm down the side of the breast.

Will the scar be highly visible?

Scars are a necessary trade-off for a tight, contoured arm. However, Dr. Gandhi places the incision along the inner bicipital groove so it is not visible from the front or the back when your arms are resting naturally by your sides. Over 12-18 months, these lines fade significantly.

When can I return to upper-body workouts?

You must avoid all heavy lifting and overhead reaching for a minimum of 4 to 6 weeks to prevent stretching the delicate healing incisions. Light cardio, such as walking, can resume within the first week.

Is numbness normal after an arm lift?

Temporary numbness or tingling along the inner arm is entirely normal due to the manipulation of superficial skin nerves. This sensory alteration typically resolves on its own over a few months as the tissues heal.

Phase 1: One Month Prior

Cease smoking entirely. The arms rely on a highly specific vascular network to heal; nicotine compromises this micro-circulation, heavily increasing the risk of poor scarring and delayed healing.

Phase 2: Two Weeks Prior

Set up your recovery space. Since your arm mobility will be temporarily restricted, ensure that all necessary items (clothing, dishes, toiletries) are placed at waist level so you do not have to reach overhead.

Phase 3: Mindset and Wardrobe

Purchase comfortable, button-down or zip-up shirts. You will not be able to comfortably pull clothing over your head for the first two weeks of recovery.

First 7 Days

Your arms will be wrapped in specialized compression garments to minimize swelling. You must sleep on your back with your arms elevated on pillows to promote lymphatic drainage and reduce throbbing.

Weeks 2 to 4

Surgical drains (if used) and sutures are removed. Bruising begins to fade. You may return to desk work, but arms should remain close to the body, avoiding extending them fully straight or lifting anything heavier than a laptop.

Long-Term Maturation

By month 6, the deep structural healing is complete and the final contoured silhouette is fully visible. Strict sun protection is required on the incisions to ensure the scars fade to a pale, flat silver line over the first year.