Arm Lift in Fredericksburg, VA
What Is An Arm Lift?
A frustrating side effect of losing weight or getting older is loose skin. At Plastic Surgery Services of Fredericksburg, we offer upper arm lift surgery (also called brachioplasty) as an intervention for people who cannot seem to tighten and tone their arms with diet and exercise. Excess skin from the elbow to the shoulder is a prevalent issue, especially for men and women who have lost weight or are advancing in age. An upper arm lift excises this loose, hanging skin, often called "bat wings." Plastic surgeons Dr. Howard Heppe and Dr. Pejman Aflaki in Fredericksburg, VA are skilled in skin tightening and fat removal techniques. If you want to learn more about how an arm lift can change the contour of your upper arms, please call and schedule an appointment at Plastic Surgery Services of Fredericksburg.
How Is An Arm Lift Performed?
An arm lift can be done with other surgeries, including tummy tucks, mommy makeovers, and thigh lifts — as long as your surgeon decides it is appropriate. Arm lift surgery is usually performed with the patient under anesthesia and can require several hours to finish and a scar will be discreetly placed. The sagging skin will be excised, starting at the elbow up to the underarm. The incision will be made to be as hidden as possible, but it will become a visible scar. In cases where liposuction is required to remove stubborn fat, this can also be completed. Once the skin is pulled taut, it will be sutured in place. You will have to care for the incisions by keeping them clean, bandaged, and supported with compression garments.
What to Expect After Arm Lift Surgery
After arm lift surgery, it’s normal to experience swelling, tightness, and mild discomfort for the first several days. Compression garments are typically worn to minimize swelling and support proper healing. Bruising may appear along the upper arms and will gradually fade as recovery progresses. Most patients can return to light daily activities within one to two weeks, though strenuous lifting or exercise should be avoided until cleared by your surgeon. As the swelling subsides, your arms will appear smoother and more contoured, with final results becoming more refined over the following months. It is important to have realistic expectations for your arm lift results and to understand that there will be arm lift scars present, though many patients find the scar - which can be concealed with clothing or even with your arms at rest - is well worth their slimmer new contours.
What Are the Benefits of An Arm Lift?
At Plastic Surgery Services of Fredericksburg, patients who choose arm lifts enjoy a variety of notable improvements after their surgery:
- Good for problem areas that may be resistant to physical activity or healthy eating
- Reduced rubbing, rawness, and discomfort between the chest and underarms
- Boosted self-image and satisfaction when buying clothes
- Addresses hanging skin caused by significant weight loss or getting older
Arm Lift Reviews
I did my research and I found Dr Heppe was one of Northern Virginia's top plastic surgeons. When I met Dr Heppe and his staff, I was very happy on how friendly and knowledgeable they were. On the day of my procedure, which is done in the building, I was very much impressed with how the process was done. All my questions and concerns were answered. I am a registered nurse, and I am acutely aware of when infection control procedures are followed and not followed, I absolutely felt safe in this environment. I am now three months out from my surgery and I am very much pleased with the results. I did not have any postoperative complications nor any infection. I honestly can highly recommend Dr.Heppe. I had a brachioplasty done and it's the first time in 30 years that I've worn sleeveless tops and dresses. I wish I had done this earlier! Thank you to Dr Heppe and his staff. I have sent friends to him and they are pleased as well. Connie W RN
I did my research and I found Dr Heppe was one of Northern Virginia’s top plastic surgeons. When I met Dr Heppe and his staff, I was very happy on how friendly and knowledgeable they were. On the day of my procedure, which is done in the building, I was very much impressed with how the process was done. All my questions and concerns were answered. I am a registered nurse, and I am acutely aware of when infection control procedures are followed and not followed, I absolutely felt safe in this environment. I am now three months out from my surgery and I am very much pleased with the results. I did not have any postoperative complications nor any infection. I honestly can highly recommend Dr.Heppe. I had a brachioplasty done and it’s the first time in 30 years that I’ve worn sleeveless tops and dresses. I wish I had done this earlier! Thank you to Dr Heppe and his staff. I have sent friends to him and they are pleased as well. Connie W RN
Happy RN Patient! - I did my research and I found Dr Heppe was one of Northern Virginia’s top plastic surgeons. When I met Dr Heppe and his staff, I was very happy on how friendly and knowledgeable they were. On the day of my procedure, which is done in the building, I was very much impressed with how the process was done. All my questions and concerns were answered. I am a registered nurse, and I am acutely aware of when infection control procedures are followed and not followed, I absolutely felt safe in this environment. I am now three months out from my surgery and I am very much pleased with the results. I did not have any postoperative complications nor any infection. I honestly can highly recommend Dr.Heppe. I had a brachioplasty done and it’s the first time in 30 years that I’ve worn sleeveless tops and dresses. I wish I had done this earlier! Thank you to Dr Heppe and his staff. I have sent friends to him and they are pleased as well. Connie W RN
Amazing results - I look better than I ever have in my life - Dr Aflaki is a magician. I am so happy with my results . I was back to work in 2 weeks after TT and arm lift. Zero pain after 2 days. The scars are almost gone. I look better than i ever have in my life!
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Total Reviews
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Average Rating
Plan Your Procedure
Starting Cost
$6,000.00
Recovery Time
1 Week
Who is a Candidate for an Arm Lift?
An upper arm lift is a plastic surgery procedure that uses advanced techniques to remove excess skin and create a slimmer, more toned appearance. If you feel self-conscious about the appearance of your upper arms and wish to achieve a firmer, more contoured look, you may be a good candidate for this procedure. Being in good overall health is important to support proper healing, and the best results are often achieved when patients are at a healthy, stable weight. Common concerns that lead individuals to consider an arm lift include loose or excess skin on the upper arms and a loss of skin elasticity.
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Arm Lift FAQ
How much does arm lift surgery cost?
The cost for arm lift surgery will be based on several things. Before we can determine your costs, we will perform a consultation to understand your concerns and goals. Once this is complete, we will develop your treatment plan and estimate your costs. To make it easier to choose a skilled plastic surgeon and get your best results, Plastic Surgery Services of Fredericksburg accepts many payments. We can also give you information on low-interest medical financing.
Can I combine an arm lift with other surgeries?
It is common for arm lift patients to create a custom treatment plan with another surgery. This is sometimes referred to as an upper body lift and may combine liposuction, a breast lift, or tummy tuck. An arm lift is also frequently performed in an after weight loss surgery for those who have lost a large amount of weight and want contouring throughout their body. During your initial consultation, complementary surgeries can be discussed so your custom surgical plan matches all your needs and goals.
Will there be scars after arm lift surgery?
A surgical arm lift requires incisions to excise loose skin, which means there will be scarring from stitches. However, we will make every effort to place the small incisions in inconspicuous areas. Following your arm lift, ointments that help with healing will be suggested, along with other tips for minimizing scarring. We also recommend you avoid UV exposure for at least one year to protect the scar from becoming discolored. In general, patients consider the benefits of a more toned arm outweigh the appearance of scars.
How long do arm lift results last?
Results from arm lift surgery are considered long-lasting, particularly when patients maintain a stable weight and healthy lifestyle. While natural aging continues, the removal of excess skin during brachioplasty typically provides durable improvement in upper arm contour. Patients from Fredericksburg, VA and surrounding areas including DC, Maryland, Northern Virginia, and Richmond often choose this procedure to achieve a more proportionate silhouette that complements their overall body shape. Plastic Surgery Services of Fredericksburg emphasizes personalized care and long-term follow-up to help support lasting outcomes.
Is arm lift surgery painful?
Most patients describe the discomfort after arm lift surgery as manageable and temporary. Soreness, tightness, and mild swelling are common during the initial recovery period, but these symptoms typically improve with time and proper care. Pain management strategies are discussed in detail before and after surgery to support a smooth recovery. At Plastic Surgery Services of Fredericksburg, our team prioritizes patient education and close follow-up for those undergoing brachioplasty.
Can arm lift surgery help after weight loss?
Arm lift surgery after weight loss is a common reason patients pursue brachioplasty. Significant weight reduction can leave excess, hanging skin that does not tighten on its own. Removing this skin can improve both comfort and appearance. For individuals in Fredericksburg, VA who have worked hard to reach a healthier weight, an arm lift can provide the finishing touch by creating a more proportionate arm contour. Plastic Surgery Services of Fredericksburg frequently works with post-weight loss patients as part of a comprehensive body contouring plan.
Get Your Shape Back
Whatever you call your "bat wings" or droopy skin on your arms, Drs. Heppe and Aflaki call it a way to improve your appearance with plastic surgery. This advanced surgery provides not only physical advantages but emotional benefits as well. If you are at your goal weight and still can't lose the flab and skin hanging from your upper arms, please contact us to plan a consultation at Plastic Surgery Services of Fredericksburg in Fredericksburg, VA. Look fitter and younger with an arm lift.