Arm Lift BEFORE & AFTER Patient 156: Brachioplasty
*Keep in mind that each patient is unique and your results may vary.
Before & After
A 37-year-old female underwent brachioplasty (arm lift surgery) to address excess skin and laxity of the upper arms. The patient presented with concerns related to redundant, sagging skin extending from the armpit to the elbow. The procedure was performed by Dr. Crantford in Charleston, South Carolina. Photos shown at 8 weeks post-op.
Brachioplasty, commonly known as an arm lift, removes redundant, sagging skin along the upper arms that can develop following significant weight loss, natural aging, or changes in skin elasticity over time. Patients who come to Dr. Crantford at Crantford Costa Plastic Surgery in Charleston, SC often describe feeling self-conscious about their upper arms in sleeveless clothing despite maintaining a healthy weight and active lifestyle. Before-and-after photos from this procedure typically show a dramatically smoother, more toned upper arm contour from the armpit to the elbow, with improved definition and a renewed sense of confidence in how clothing fits.
What is a brachioplasty?
Brachioplasty, or arm lift surgery, removes excess skin and tissue from the upper arm to create a firmer, more contoured appearance. It is most commonly performed on patients who have experienced significant skin laxity due to weight loss, aging, or genetics.
Will a brachioplasty leave a visible scar?
Brachioplasty does involve an incision that runs along the inner arm, typically from the armpit to the elbow. Dr. Crantford places incisions carefully to minimize visibility, and scars continue to fade and mature significantly over the 12 months following surgery. Most patients find the improvement in arm contour well worth the trade-off.
How long after brachioplasty do final results show?
Initial swelling resolves within the first several weeks, with most patients seeing significant improvement by 6–8 weeks post-op. Final results — including full scar maturation and complete settling of arm contour — are typically visible at 9 to 12 months post-op.
Who is a good candidate for brachioplasty?
Ideal candidates are patients who are at or near a stable goal weight and have excess skin along the upper arms that does not respond to exercise. Dr. Crantford evaluates each patient individually to determine whether brachioplasty alone or a combination approach with liposuction would best achieve their goals.
What is recovery like after brachioplasty?
Most patients return to light daily activity within 1–2 weeks. Lifting and strenuous arm activity are restricted for 4–6 weeks to protect the incision and support proper healing. A compression garment is typically worn during early recovery to reduce swelling and optimize the final contour result.
