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Arm Lift in Irvine, CA

Expert Surgeons
4.9 Google Rating
Serving Orange County Since 2012

About Arm Lift

An arm lift, or brachioplasty, removes excess skin and stubborn fat from the upper arms that diet and exercise alone often cannot fix. Whether your concerns stem from weight loss, aging, or genetics, this procedure helps create smoother, tighter contours so you can feel confident wearing sleeveless clothing again. Many patients choose an arm lift as part of a larger body contouring journey to fully reveal their hard-earned results.

Procedure Quick Facts

Duration of Procedure:
2–3 hours
Anesthesia:
General anesthesia
Recovery:
Back to work in about 1 week; unrestricted activities around 6 weeks
Results Duration:
Long-lasting with stable weight and healthy lifestyle
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What is Arm Lift?

An arm lift, medically known as brachioplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes loose skin and excess fat from the upper arm between the elbow and the armpit. During the operation, an incision is typically placed along the inner arm, allowing the surgeon to tighten underlying tissues, remove unwanted fat, and trim away stretched skin. The result is a slimmer, more contoured arm profile that better fits your overall physique. Many people seek an arm lift after significant weight loss or as part of their natural aging journey, when skin loses elasticity and begins to sag. Even with consistent exercise, the upper arms can remain resistant to change because stretched skin simply cannot contract on its own. By tailoring the incision length and technique to each patient’s needs, our surgeons can address mild to substantial laxity while striving to keep scars as discreet as possible.

What Arm Lift Can Do for You

If you're considering an arm lift, South Coast Plastic Surgery is here to guide you through every step. Dr. Kyle Song and Dr. Paige Benyamein will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan that addresses your concerns and helps you achieve your aesthetic goals.
  • Remove Excess, Sagging Skin
    An arm lift eliminates hanging skin that can cause chafing, irritation, and self-consciousness, especially in fitted or sleeveless clothing.
  • Improve Arm Contours and Proportions
    By tightening tissues and reducing bulk, brachioplasty creates a smoother, slimmer silhouette that complements your shoulders, torso, and overall figure.
  • Enhance Confidence in Clothing Choices
    Patients often feel freer to wear tank tops, swimsuits, and form-fitting sleeves without worrying about excess skin movement.
  • Highlight Weight-Loss Achievements
    After major weight loss, an arm lift can reveal toned muscle definition and complete your transformation journey.
  • Reduce Skin Irritation and Hygiene Issues
    Removing redundant folds helps decrease trapped moisture and friction, making daily activities and exercise more comfortable.
  • Long-Lasting Results with Healthy Lifestyle
    With stable weight and good skin care, the improvements from an arm lift can last for many years, giving you lasting satisfaction.

Arm Lift Videos

Watch our videos to see real patients results, learn from our experts, and discover what makes South Coast Plastic Surgery a trusted choice in Orange County.

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Key Benefits of Arm Lift

Removes loose upper-arm skin that diet and exercise cannot tighten.
Shapes a smoother arm contour that balances your overall body silhouette.
Dramatically improves comfort and confidence in sleeveless and fitted clothing.
Highlights underlying muscle tone for a youthful, athletic-looking upper arm.
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Types of Arm Lift

Traditional Brachioplasty

The standard approach places an incision along the inner arm from the elbow to the armpit. It allows for maximal skin removal and is ideal for patients with significant laxity after major weight loss or aging. The resulting scar rests on the underside of the arm and generally fades over time.

Short-Scar (Mini) Brachioplasty

Also called a limited-incision arm lift, this technique confines the incision to the armpit area. It works well for individuals with mild to moderate excess skin concentrated near the upper arm, providing improvement with less visible scarring.

Liposuction-Assisted Arm Contouring

For patients whose main concern is excess fat with good skin elasticity, targeted liposuction can sculpt the arm without long incisions. When combined with skin tightening procedures, it further refines results for a sleek contour.

Not sure which option is right for you?

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Meet your Arm Lift surgeons

Dr. Kyle Song and Dr. Paige Benyamein are board-certified plastic surgeons with extensive experience in body contouring procedures, including brachioplasty. They combine advanced surgical skills with an artistic eye to create balanced, natural-looking arm contours while prioritizing your safety and comfort.

Why Choose South Coast Plastic Surgery for Your Arm Lift?

Beauty Inside-Out

We care for your inner wellness as much as your outer beauty. Every treatment is provided with warmth and exceptional care to help you feel confident and supported

Clear Expectations from the Start

Share your goals in detail before you even arrive using Adoreal's personalized assessment. Your specialist will understand exactly what you're hoping to achieve before your consultation begins, making your visit more focused and personal

Dedicated Follow-Up Support

Your care doesn't end when you leave our office. Our team provides personalized check-ins to monitor your results, answer any questions, and make sure you're completely satisfied with your outcome.

Precision & Artistry

Your treatment is performed by highly trained specialists
who understand facial anatomy at the deepest level. We combine technical precision with an artistic eye to enhance your natural beauty while keeping you looking like you

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A Customized Approach to Body Procedures in Irvine & Ladera Ranch

No two arms are alike, and neither are our surgical plans. We consider your unique skin quality, fat distribution, and lifestyle to design an arm lift that delivers beautiful, lasting results.

Before your consultation, you can complete a brief personalized assessment from home, helping us understand your specific goals, concerns, and timeline. During your visit, we'll use advanced 3D imaging to show you a realistic preview of your potential results, giving you confidence and clarity in your decision. 

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Comprehensive, Compassionate Care

This personalized assessment ensures your consultation is tailored to your unique goals from the moment you walk in.

Our surgeon will also assess individual factors such as skin elasticity, fat distribution, and overall arm proportion, along with your personal preferences to determine the best approach for your goals.

See Your Future Self

Am I a good candidate for Arm Lift?

Ideal arm lift candidates have loose skin or persistent fat along the upper arms and are looking for a surgical solution to achieve a smoother contour. A consultation with our surgeons will help determine if the procedure aligns with your health and aesthetic goals.
Ideal arm lift candidates have loose skin or persistent fat along the upper arms and are looking for a surgical solution to achieve a smoother contour. A consultation with our surgeons will help determine if the procedure aligns with your health and aesthetic goals.
Good overall physical and mental health
Stable body weight without major fluctuations
Non-smoker or willing to quit before and after surgery
Realistic expectations about scars and results
Excess upper-arm skin or fat resistant to exercise
No uncontrolled medical conditions that impair healing
Ability to follow post-operative instructions and attend follow-ups

Help us understand your unique goals & concerns.

This personalized assessment ensures your consultation is tailored specifically to you, with no obligation. Your wellness journey, our commitment.

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Your Arm Lift Journey and Recovery

From your first consultation to your final results, you’re guided through every stage of your journey with personalized support, automated instructions, and 24/7 access to your care team. This is your journey, we just make it easier. 

Comprehensive Consultation & Assessment

Your journey begins with a private consultation with Dr. Song or Dr. Benyamein. This visit is focused on understanding what changes you'd like to see and whether arm lift surgery is the right solution for your concerns.

During your consultation, your surgeon will:

  • Discuss your goals and desired arm shape
  • Examine skin quality, fat distribution, and muscle tone
  • Explain surgical techniques and incision placements
  • Review your medical history and medications
  • Outline recovery expectations and answer all questions

Together, you'll create a surgical plan tailored to your anatomy and lifestyle, with safety and realistic outcomes as the priority.

The Arm Lift Procedure

You will arrive at our accredited surgical suite, where a board-certified anesthesiologist administers general anesthesia for your comfort.

During the procedure:

  • Precise markings guide incision placement on the inner arm
  • Excess fat may be removed with liposuction for smooth contouring
  • Loose skin is excised and underlying tissues are tightened
  • Incisions are closed with layered sutures to support optimal healing

A sterile dressing and compression garment are applied before you awaken in the recovery area.

Arm Lift Recovery Timeline

Recovery experiences vary, but most patients follow a similar general timeline.

Immediately after surgery
You’ll rest in our recovery area until you’re fully awake, then head home the same day with a trusted adult.

First few days

  • Keep arms elevated and wear compression garment continuously
  • Take prescribed pain medication and antibiotics as directed
  • Expect mild swelling, bruising, and numbness along incision line

Weeks 1-2

  • Return to office for follow-up visit and suture check
  • Resume desk work and light daily activities
  • Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous arm movements

Weeks 3-4

  • Swelling continues to subside; incision color lightens
  • Gradually reintroduce light gym activities with surgeon approval
  • You'll receive personalized post-operative instructions and follow-up appointments to monitor healing and address any concerns.

Your Arm Lift Results

Arm lift results are visible right away, though your arms will continue to refine as swelling resolves and tissues settle.

Early results
Arms look slimmer immediately, but may appear swollen or feel tight.

Following weeks

  • Contour improves, scars mature, and confidence grows as you return to normal activities.

Final results

  • Around 3–6 months, swelling subsides and scars fade, revealing smooth, toned arms.

With proper care and a stable weight, arm lift results can last for many years, helping you enjoy clothing freedom and a renewed sense of self-confidence.

  • Days 3 - 5
  • Week 1 - 2
  • Week 2 - 3
  • Week 4 - 6

  • Month 2 - 3
  • Month 4 - 6
  • Long time
Start your Journey today

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Arm Lift Results and Safety Considerations

Understanding how surgical technique, anatomy, and healing affect arm lift results can help you set realistic expectations and feel confident in your decision.

Achieving Natural-Looking Results

Our surgeons carefully evaluate the amount of skin redundancy and fat volume to determine the ideal balance of removal and tightening. By placing incisions along the inner arm, they conceal scars when the arms rest at the sides, helping your results look seamless in daily life.

Precision liposuction smooths contour transitions, preventing a sharp step-off between treated and untreated areas. Layered closure techniques support proper healing and minimize scar width. Your dedication to scar care, hydration, and maintaining a steady weight will further enhance the final appearance.

Where Are the Incisions?

  • Incisions are typically placed on the inner arm where they are less visible.
  • Inner arm from elbow to armpit (traditional)
  • Incisions are carefully planned to follow natural contours and are closed with precision to support proper healing and minimize long-term visibility.

Is Scarring a Concern?

Any surgical incision will leave a scar, but most patients find the trade-off worthwhile for the improvement in contour. Scars typically fade with time and diligent care.

Scar Healing Timeline

  • Weeks 1-2
    • Scars may appear red and slightly raised
  • Months 1-3
    • Scars typically soften and begin to flatten
  • Around 6 months
    • Noticeable fading often occurs
  • 1-2 years
    • Scars may continue to lighten and become less noticeable

Following post-operative instructions and recommended scar care plays an important role in how scars mature.

Understanding Risks and Safety

Medical examination room with a treatment table covered in white sheets and various medical equipment against the walls.

Understanding Risks and Safety

Arm lift surgery is generally safe when performed by an experienced plastic surgeon in an accredited surgical facility. However, as with any surgery, there are potential risks to be aware of.

Potential risks may include:

  • Bleeding or hematoma
  • Infection
  • Poor wound healing or widened scars
  • Changes in skin sensation
  • Asymmetry or contour irregularities
  • Anesthesia-related complications

Your surgeon will review these risks with you in detail during your consultation and explain how they are minimized through careful planning, surgical technique, and follow-up care.

Reducing Your Risk

Your safety is a top priority at South Coast Plastic Surgery. Steps taken to support a safe arm lift experience include:

  • Thorough pre-operative evaluation
  • Precise surgical planning tailored to your anatomy
  • Surgery performed in a fully accredited facility
  • Detailed post-operative instructions and follow-up care

By choosing an experienced surgical team and following recovery guidelines closely, most patients heal well and are satisfied with their arm lift results.

How Much does Arm Lift Cost?

The cost of your procedure will vary based on a variety of factors. During your consultation, your doctor will discuss your desired outcomes in detail and provide a fully transparent breakdown of all associated costs. Our practice helps patients achieve their aesthetic goals with a variety of financing options.

Financing options available through:
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Trusted by Our Community

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4.8/5 stars for 334 reviews / 90% word-of-mouth referral rate / Over 15 years serving Orange County

Dr. Song performed my breast implant surgery nearly 10 yrs ago with the ideal breast implant. I've had no issues in this time. I live on the other side of the country now, but I would've loved to come back for removal, since I'm on an all natural journey. I hope to find someone who can take care of me, keep me safe, & assured during & after surgery as Dr. Song & his staff did.

N. Snoozzz

Thank you Dr. Song. I’m 10 days post opp and am so happy with my experience with my mommy makeover! I can’t tell you how comfortable Dr. Song and his staff made me feel throughout this whole process. Surgery is a bit of a scary decision and sometimes I agonized about for years but I can promise you are in the best care with this team. I highly highly recommend them and am already so happy with my results !

Crystal Surmanian
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Frequently Asked Questions About Arm Lift

Everything you need to know about Arm Lift, explained by South Coast Plastic Surgery's experts

About the procedure

How is an arm lift performed?
A carefully placed incision allows the surgeon to remove excess skin and fat, tighten tissues, and close the incision with layered sutures for a smooth contour.
Will I need liposuction with my arm lift?
If you have significant arm fat as well as loose skin, liposuction can be combined with brachioplasty to enhance contour and definition.
Where will my surgery take place?
Your arm lift is performed in our fully accredited surgical facility in Irvine, ensuring a safe and comfortable environment.
How long will swelling last after arm lift?
Most swelling resolves within six weeks, with residual refinement continuing for several months as tissues settle.

Recovery & Results

When can I return to work?
Many patients feel ready to resume desk work after about one week, though manual labor may require additional time off.
Are the results permanent?
Results are long-lasting as long as you maintain a stable weight and healthy lifestyle, though natural aging will continue.
What risks are associated with arm lift surgery?
Risks include bleeding, infection, scar widening, changes in sensation, and anesthesia-related complications, which your surgeon will discuss in detail.
How do you minimize complications?
We conduct thorough health screenings, use precise surgical techniques, operate in an accredited facility, and provide detailed aftercare instructions.

Safety & Risks

Is arm lift covered by insurance?
Arm lift is generally considered cosmetic and not covered by insurance, though we offer financing options to help manage costs.
What factors influence the total price?
Surgeon’s fee, facility and anesthesia costs, garment needs, and whether additional procedures like liposuction are included all affect pricing.
When can I exercise after an arm lift?
Light cardio can resume around three weeks, while weight training involving the arms is usually cleared after six weeks, depending on healing.
How do I care for my scars?
Keep incisions clean, apply recommended scar creams once healed, protect scars from sun, and follow compression garment instructions to promote optimal fading.

Cost & Insurance

Is arm lift covered by insurance?
Arm lift is generally considered cosmetic and not covered by insurance, though we offer financing options to help manage costs.
What factors influence the total price?
Surgeon’s fee, facility and anesthesia costs, garment needs, and whether additional procedures like liposuction are included all affect pricing.

Lifestyle & Long-Term Care

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