Loose upper arm skin can make you feel self-conscious in everything from t-shirts to evening wear. Arm lift surgery removes that excess tissue to reveal toned, contoured arms you'll be proud to show off, with refined techniques that keep scarring discreet and recovery straightforward.
What Is Arm Lift?
Brachioplasty removes excess skin and fat from the upper arms to correct the "bat wing" appearance that often develops due to weight loss, ageing, or genetics. This sagging cannot be corrected through exercise alone.
Your surgeon removes excess tissue and tightens the underlying structure to create a smoother, more toned contour, with incisions carefully placed to minimise visible scarring.
Common Concerns Arm Lift Can Address
- Excess hanging skin on the upper arms
- Sagging tissue that creates a "bat wing" appearance
- Poor arm definition despite exercise and diet
- Self-consciousness when wearing sleeveless clothing
Are You a Good Candidate?
- Adults with stable weight and good overall health
- Non-smokers or those willing to quit before surgery
- Individuals with excess arm skin following weight loss or due to ageing
Techniques & Options
Upper arm skin varies in thickness, elasticity, and how far the laxity extends. Your surgeon will assess the degree of sagging, skin quality, and whether excess fat is also present to determine the right incision length and placement. The procedure can range from a small tuck hidden in the armpit to a full reshaping from elbow to chest.
There are three main techniques:
Mini Arm Lift
Best suited for patients with minimal skin laxity near the armpit. Uses a smaller incision hidden within the armpit crease.
- Shorter incision hidden in armpit area
- Minimal scarring and faster recovery
- Ideal for mild to moderate skin excess
Standard Brachioplasty
The most common approach for moderate to severe skin laxity. An incision from elbow to armpit along the inner arm provides comprehensive contouring.
- Removes significant excess skin and fat
- Creates smooth, defined arm contour
- Incision placed along inner arm for discretion
Extended Brachioplasty
For patients with extensive laxity extending from the arm to the chest wall, often following massive weight loss. The incision extends beyond the armpit to address lateral chest tissue.
- Addresses skin excess on arms and chest
- Comprehensive upper body contouring
- Combined with other body lift procedures if needed
Recovery Timeline
Days 1–3
Swelling, bruising, and tightness in your arms are normal and expected. Keep your arms elevated when resting to reduce swelling. Your care coordinator will check in daily to monitor your comfort and healing.
Week 1–2
Swelling and bruising gradually subside, and most patients feel comfortable enough to return to light daily activities. Avoid lifting anything heavier than a kettle. You'll start feeling much more like yourself.
Weeks 3–6
You can gradually resume normal activities including light exercise. Scars will appear pink and raised but will continue to fade over the coming months. Avoid upper-body weights during this period.
Months 3–6
Final results become visible as residual swelling resolves and scars mature to thinner, paler lines. Most patients enjoy their slimmer, more contoured arms and feel confident in fitted clothing.
What to Expect
Safety & Risks
Arm lift surgery is a safe procedure when performed by an experienced surgeon, but like all surgeries, it carries some risks.
- Visible inner-arm scarring (fades over time)
- Infection at incision sites
- Bleeding or haematoma
- Asymmetry or contour irregularities
- Temporary numbness or tingling
- Delayed wound healing (uncommon)
Inner-arm scarring is the most visible trade-off with brachioplasty, so your surgeon will show you scar placement options, discuss how incision length relates to your degree of skin laxity, and review scar management strategies before you commit.
How Much Does Arm Lift Cost in Thailand?
Our pricing is transparent and all-inclusive — your quote covers everything from surgeon fees to hospital stay.
Arm Lift
All-inclusive surgical package- Board-certified surgeon fee
- Anaesthesia & operating theatre
- Hospital stay & nursing care
- Post-operative medications
- Follow-up appointments
- Dedicated care coordinator
Common Questions About Arm Lift
Everything you need to know before your procedure
Dr. Pichaya Suwanprasert
MEDICALLY REVIEWEDDr. Pichaya Suwanprasert
MEDICALLY REVIEWEDPlastic Surgeon · Bangkok
Last reviewed: February 18, 2026
Medical References
Medical disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Individual results, recovery times, and suitability vary. Always consult a qualified surgeon before making decisions about treatment.
What's Included
- Board-certified surgeon fee
- Anaesthesia & operating theatre
- Hospital stay & nursing care
- Post-operative medications
- Follow-up appointments
- Dedicated care coordinator
Ready to Get Started?
Speak with our care coordinators for a free, no-obligation consultation and personalised quote.
Speak to Our Team
