Involves a long incision from the armpit to the elbow, ideal for significant skin excess. It tightens the arm contour and removes hanging skin.
Body Contouring
Brachioplasty
Arm Lift Surgery Sheffield (Brachioplasty)
If you’ve found yourself frustrated by sagging skin or stubborn fat on your upper arms — what many refer to as “bingo wings” — you’re certainly not alone. This is something I see regularly in women, particularly from middle age onwards. It’s perfectly natural for the upper arms to change shape as skin elasticity reduces over time. Weight fluctuations, genetics, the natural ageing process, plus lifestyle factors can all contribute to loose, hanging skin that simply doesn’t respond to diet or targeted exercise.
The good news is that arm lift surgery, also known as brachioplasty, offers an effective solution. By removing excess skin plus unwanted fat, we can reshape the upper arms to create a slimmer, more toned appearance. The procedure often gives people renewed confidence, making it far easier to enjoy short sleeves or fitted clothing without hesitation.
What is Arm Lift or Arm Reduction Surgery?
Arm lift surgery is a procedure designed to reshape the upper arms by removing excess skin plus localised fat deposits. The aim is to create a firmer, more defined contour between the shoulder plus the elbow. For many patients, this procedure restores a more youthful outline that feels balanced with the rest of the body.
Depending on your individual needs, I may combine skin tightening with liposuction to achieve a smoother, more refined result. The incision is usually placed along the inner or back portion of the arm where it can remain as discreet as possible. I always use careful surgical techniques to minimise visible scarring, with the goal of delivering both functional improvements plus an aesthetically pleasing outcome.
Who Should Have Arm Lift Surgery?
You might be a suitable candidate for brachioplasty if:
• You’ve experienced significant weight loss with loose, hanging skin left behind
• Ageing has led to reduced tone plus firmness in the upper arms
• You feel self-conscious in sleeveless clothing or prefer not to lift your arms in public
• You’re in generally good health with realistic expectations about the outcome
During your consultation, I’ll assess the condition of your skin, answer your questions, listen to your concerns, plus discuss whether arm lift surgery is the most appropriate option for you.
What to Expect When You Have an Arm Lift
The procedure is carried out under general anaesthetic, usually taking between 1.5 to 2.5 hours. You may return home the same day, although some patients stay overnight depending on comfort levels plus general health.
An incision is made along the inner or back side of the upper arm. I remove excess skin plus fat then reshape the area to achieve a smoother, more natural contour. Liposuction may be used to refine the shape further. Before your surgery, I’ll explain each step clearly so you feel informed, prepared, plus confident about the process from start to finish.
Risks of Arm Lift Surgery
As with any surgical procedure, brachioplasty carries potential risks, which can include:
• Infection
• Bleeding
• Scarring (which generally fades over time though may remain visible)
• Numbness or altered skin sensation
• Asymmetry or uneven contour
• Delayed healing
We will discuss all risks in detail during your consultation. I use meticulous techniques plus provide comprehensive aftercare to keep complications to a minimum.
Arm Lift Surgery Recovery
Recovery from an arm lift is typically straightforward. Most patients take one to two weeks away from work depending on the type of job they do. Heavy lifting or strenuous activity must be avoided for at least four to six weeks to protect the surgical site.
You’ll be provided with a compression garment to help reduce swelling while supporting healthy healing. Some discomfort, tightness, plus bruising are normal in the early stages though these improve steadily with rest plus proper care. I’ll arrange follow-up appointments to monitor your progress then give you detailed aftercare instructions to help you achieve the best possible result.
Most patients report a significant boost in confidence once healing is complete. The freedom to wear lighter clothing, move comfortably, plus enjoy daily activities without feeling self-conscious often makes this procedure truly transformative.
Brachioplasty Options
There are different approaches depending on how much skin and fat needs to be removed. Dr. Awad will help choose the best one for you:
- Standard Brachioplasty
- Mini Brachioplasty
- Liposuction-Assisted Brachioplasty
- Extended Brachioplasty
- Scar Placement & Management
Standard Brachioplasty
Mini Brachioplasty
A smaller incision limited to the armpit area. Best for mild to moderate sagging.
Liposuction-Assisted Brachioplasty
Liposuction is used alongside skin removal to target stubborn fat and refine the shape of the upper arms.
Extended Brachioplasty
For those with excess skin that extends down the chest or side of the torso. This option offers more extensive contouring.
Scar Placement & Management
Dr. Awad carefully places incisions to keep scars discreet and provides post-op scar care guidance to help them fade over time.
At a Glance
Surgery Time
1.5 – 2.5 hours
Time off work
1-2 weeks
Hospital Stay
Day case or 1 night
Reasonable Mobility
2-3 days
Driving
After 1-2 weeks
Shower
After 2-3 days
Sleeping on back
1-2 weeks
Full Recovery
4-6 weeks
What To Expect
If you’re thinking about brachioplasty, it’s helpful to know what the process involves. Here’s a simple guide to take you from first consultation to final result.
Here’s a breakdown of the procedure
1. The consultation
Dr. Awad will assess the skin and fat on your upper arms, discuss your goals, and talk through the surgical options and outcomes.
2. Leading up to the procedure
You’ll be given pre-surgery instructions including lifestyle and medication advice to prepare for a smooth recovery.
3. On the day
The surgery is carried out under general anaesthetic and takes 1.5 to 2.5 hours. You’ll go home the same day or stay overnight if needed.
4. Treatment recovery
You’ll need to wear a compression garment to support healing and reduce swelling. Most patients return to light activity within a few days, with full recovery in 4-6 weeks.
Brachioplasty Questions
It’s totally normal to have questions if you’re considering an arm lift. Here are some of the most frequently asked ones to help you decide:
Here’s a breakdown of the procedure
- Will I have visible scars?
- Is brachioplasty painful?
- Will the results be permanent?
- When can I go back to the gym?
- Can I combine this with other surgeries?
- Am I a good candidate?
Will I have visible scars?
Yes, but Dr. Awad places them carefully along the inside of the arm or armpit. With time and proper aftercare, they become much less noticeable
Is brachioplasty painful?
There will be some discomfort after surgery, but pain relief will be provided. Most patients describe it as manageable.
Will the results be permanent?
Yes, as long as you maintain a stable weight and healthy lifestyle. Ageing may affect skin tone over time, but the contour improvement is long-lasting.
When can I go back to the gym?
Gentle activity can resume after a few weeks, but avoid upper body workouts for at least 6 weeks.
Can I combine this with other surgeries?
Definitely. Brachioplasty is often combined with procedures like tummy tucks or breast surgery for a more comprehensive transformation.
Am I a good candidate?
If you’re in good general health, have loose upper arm skin, and realistic expectations, brachioplasty could be a great option for you.
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