Arm Lift

Consultations offered at our two convenient locations in Houston and The Woodlands, TX

If excess skin or stubborn fat around the upper arms makes you feel self-conscious or limits your clothing choices, an arm lift (brachioplasty) may be the solution. Dr. Ryan Couvillion performs personalized arm lift procedures to help patients regain comfort, confidence, and contour—without overcorrection or visible bulk.

Whether your arms have changed with age, weight loss, or genetics, Dr. Couvillion tailors each procedure to your anatomy for natural-looking, proportionate results that reflect your goals.

Houston’s Destination for Arm Lift Surgery

Dr. Couvillion blends meticulous technique with an artistic eye to create upper arm contours that feel true to you.

  • Tightens and reshapes the upper arm contour
  • Removes excess skin and fat
  • Improves comfort in fitted clothing and activewear
  • Board-certified expertise in body contouring
  • Customized incision placement for less noticeable scarring

What Is an Arm Lift?

An arm lift (brachioplasty) is a body contouring procedure that removes sagging skin and excess fat from the upper arms, typically between the elbow and armpit. This creates a firmer, more sculpted arm profile and can significantly improve both comfort and confidence.

Dr. Couvillion carefully plans the incision pattern and contouring technique based on your unique skin elasticity, fat distribution, and desired outcome. In many cases, liposuction is combined with skin removal for a smoother transition and optimal shape.

Benefits of Arm Lift Surgery

  • Eliminates sagging or “bat wing” appearance
  • Enhances upper body proportions and definition
  • Improves clothing fit and comfort
  • Combines well with other procedures (e.g., breast, body lift)
  • Offers long-term results with minimal maintenance

Are You a Candidate for an Arm Lift?

During your consultation, Dr. Couvillion will determine if arm lift surgery, liposuction alone, or a combination is right for you.

You may be a good candidate for an arm lift if you:

  • Struggle with persistent fat despite exercise
  • Have loose, hanging skin on the upper arms
  • Feel self-conscious in sleeveless tops or swimwear
  • Are at or near a stable weight
  • Are in good health and want long-term improvement

Preparing for Your Arm Lift

Planning ahead helps ensure a smooth experience and optimal results. Before surgery, Dr. Couvillion will:

  • Assess your anatomy and skin elasticity
  • Map your incision pattern
  • Review your health history and medications
  • Provide pre-op instructions, including:
    • Avoiding nicotine and certain medications
    • Arranging for recovery support
    • Setting realistic expectations for downtime

What to Expect from Surgery

  • Setting: Outpatient surgery under general anesthesia
  • Duration: Typically 2–3 hours
  • Incisions: Placed along the inner arm or back of arm (depending on patient preference)
  • Techniques: Skin excision with or without liposuction
  • Closure: Meticulous suturing for minimal scarring

Arm Lift Recovery and Results

You’ll leave surgery with a compression garment to support healing. Swelling, tightness, and bruising are common but temporary.

  • Return to work/light activity in 1–2 weeks
  • Resume workouts after 6 weeks
  • Scars will fade gradually over 6–12 months
  • Final contour visible within 3–6 months

Many patients report renewed confidence wearing sleeveless clothes, improved symmetry, and better quality of life.

FAQ

Will I have visible scars?

Scars are typically placed on the inner arm and fade significantly over time. Dr. Couvillion uses the most minimal incision possible based on your needs.

Is liposuction always included?

Not always. Liposuction may be used to remove localized fat deposits if needed, but some patients require only skin removal.

How long do arm lift results last?

With stable weight and good skin care, results can last for many years. While aging continues, skin laxity typically does not return to the pre-surgery state.

Can I combine an arm lift with other procedures?

Yes. Many patients combine it with breast surgery, tummy tuck, or post-weight loss contouring for full-body results.

Does a brachioplasty also remove skin from the side of the chest and armpit?

It can. A standard brachioplasty can be extended to include an axilloplasty as well, which will remove the extra skin of the lateral chest and armpit.