Skip to content 
Practical Information
Plastic Surgery
Reduce arm sagging and excess fat.
2 hours
General anesthesia
Outpatient care or a 1-day hospital stay, depending on the surgeon’s recommendation.
4 weeks
What is Brachioplasty?
Brachioplasty, also known as an arm lift, is a surgery that removes excess skin and fat from the upper arms to eliminate flabby arms.
As we age, the skin on the arms naturally loses elasticity. In other cases, especially after significant weight loss, the excess skin in this area can become even more pronounced, resulting in what is commonly referred to as “bat wings.”
How is it performed?
In brachioplasty, the surgeon makes an incision along the inner part of the arm, which may vary in length. The location and extent of the incision depend on the amount of skin and fat that need to be removed.
After removing the excess skin and fat, the remaining skin is tightened and sutured to create a firmer and smoother arm contour.
In some cases, liposuction may be used to remove additional fat and enhance the overall shape of the arm.
Who is this surgery for?
Brachioplasty is recommended for people who have sagging skin and excess fat in the arms and who have not been able to improve the appearance of this area through diet or exercise.
The procedure is intended for individuals who are in good overall health.
Expected Results
The results of brachioplasty can be quite significant, satisfying, and long-lasting for most patients who undergo this procedure.
Brachioplasty is effective in removing excess, hanging skin, resulting in more toned arms with improved definition. When combined with liposuction, it can also reduce fat accumulation in the upper arms.
Many patients report a noticeable boost in self-esteem and confidence after the surgery.
To maintain long-term results, patients are encouraged to follow a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and regular exercise.
It is important to note that brachioplasty is not a substitute for weight loss. This procedure is most suitable for patients who have already reached a stable weight and wish to remove excess skin.
Results may vary depending on the patient’s age, skin quality, genetics, and other health factors.
Brachioplasty Post-Surgery and Recovery
Recovery from brachioplasty can take several weeks. During this period, compression garments may be used to minimise swelling and support the arms as they heal.
Patients are advised to limit arm movement to promote proper healing.
It’s common to experience pain and discomfort in the first few days after surgery. This is usually managed with medication prescribed by the surgeon.
Between the second and fourth week, swelling and bruising begin to decrease. It’s important to continue wearing the compression garments as instructed. Lymphatic drainage sessions may also be recommended, as they help reduce swelling, prevent fibrosis, and accelerate the healing process.
Mobility of the arms can gradually increase, but you should still avoid lifting heavy objects or engaging in strenuous activities. Light exercise, such as walking, can help reduce swelling and prevent complications like blood clots.
Most patients can return to most normal activities after 4 to 6 weeks, but this may vary depending on individual healing.
Follow-up appointments with the surgeon are essential to monitor recovery progress and address any concerns.
What is the scar like after Brachioplasty?
Generally, in brachioplasty, the incision is made between the armpit and the elbow, leaving the scar on the least visible part of the arm – the inner side.
The less skin laxity there is, the smaller the scar will be.
The length and visibility of the scar vary according to the amount of skin removed and the patient’s individual healing response.
Proper postoperative care – such as avoiding sun exposure, not smoking, and following wound-care instructions – can significantly influence the healing process.
Scars gradually mature and become less noticeable over time, although this process may take a year or longer to fully stabilise.
If needed, additional treatments such as fractional CO2 laser can help improve the texture and colour of the scars.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is anesthesia used during the procedure?
Yes. Brachioplasty is performed under general anesthesia, ensuring the patient is unconscious and does not feel pain during the surgery.
What are the risks associated with brachioplasty?
As with any surgery, brachioplasty carries risks such as infection, bleeding, anesthesia-related complications, and healing issues. These side effects are uncommon but possible. You should discuss any concerns with your surgeon.
What is the average recovery time?
Arm lift recovery typically takes around 4 weeks.
How long does the surgery take?
Brachioplasty lasts, on average, about 2 hours.
Can brachioplasty be combined with other procedures?
Yes. In many cases, brachioplasty is combined with liposuction to enhance arm contour and achieve more defined, harmonious results.
Plastic Surgeon
[Medical License #53318]
Dr. Francisco Martins de Carvalho is a specialist in Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery. He completed his degree in Medicine at the School of Medicine of the University of Oporto and the Internship in Specific Training in Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery took place at Hospital de São José (Lisbon) and Hospital de São João (Oporto).
Dr. Francisco Martins de Carvalho performed several internships, namely on Oncology Surgery of the Head and Neck at the Portuguese Institute of Oncology – Oporto and a fellowship of Hand Surgery, organized by the Portuguese Society of Hand Surgery. He also performed international internships in Aesthetic Surgery, Breast Reconstruction and Lymphedema at the Clinic Planas – Barcelona, at the University Hospital of Brussels and at the Villa Sant’Apollonia Clinic – Bergamo, having contacted with references in Plastic Surgery such as Dr. Jaume Masià, Dr. Moustapha Hamdi and Dr. Enrico Robotti.
Currently, he is also a plastic surgeon at the Hospital de São João – Oporto, and a Invited Lecturer at the School of Medicine of the University of Oporto.
In the field of cosmetic surgery, he has a special interest in facial cosmetic surgery, breast cosmetic surgery, body contouring surgery and vaginal cosmetic surgery.
What is the Price of Brachioplasty?
The price of brachioplasty varies depending on several factors, so a personalised assessment is required. Schedule a consultation to receive a quote and clarify any questions you may have.
Financing options: At Living Clinic, we want to ensure that all patients have access to the treatment they desire. That is why we provide financing options (interest-free financing for up to 12 months), allowing you to undergo your surgery in a more affordable way, without compromising the quality of the procedure and care.
Plastic Surgery Testimonials
“Dr. Francisco Martins De Carvalho doesn’t forget the smallest detail. He seeks perfection and finds it. A unique and sublime talent. I woke up with the body of a teenager (I’m 41). Thank you for making me smile.”
“Very attentive doctor, very helpful and friendly receptionist. Welcoming and pleasant environment.”
“I had a gynocomastia surgery about two weeks ago, performed by Dr. Carvalho. The surgery went exactly as he outlined during the consultation. The process was very smooth and painless. Even though it’s only been two weeks, it feels like I never had surgery, and the result is truly flawless. Dr. Carvalho provided very detailed […]
“One of the best surgeons, I’m so grateful for the excellent work he did with me! A perfectionist!! I couldn’t be happier with the results! Thank you, Dr. Francisco Carvalho!”
“Dr. Francisco Carvalho is undoubtedly the best plastic surgeon with a very promising future ahead. His dedication, responsibility, professionalism, concern for patients, sensitivity, and humility are second to none. I highly recommend him. Thank you, Dr. Francisco, and the entire team for everything, but especially Dr. Francisco Carvalho. I recommend this plastic surgeon to anyone […]
LOCATION
Where to have Brachioplasty in Porto?
Have your Brachioplasty at Living Clinic with maximum safety and natural results! We are located at Av. da Boavista 117 6th floor, Room 607, 4050-115 Porto, Portugal.
Schedule a consultation with the plastic surgeon to hear his recommendation for your specific case and clarify all your questions.
