Loose, hanging skin on the upper arms can make even the most confident person feel self-conscious — especially when it seems like no amount of diet or exercise makes a difference. Whether your skin has lost its elasticity with age or you’re dealing with excess skin after major weight loss, the frustration is real.

At Lethbridge Plastic Surgery & Aesthetics, we offer a proven, transformative solution: arm lift surgery (brachioplasty). This procedure removes excess skin and reshapes the upper arm — so you can feel comfortable wearing what you love and showing up with confidence.

If you have questions about brachioplasty, we would love to meet with you personally to answer them, however, here’s a little bit of info to help out until we can see you in person!

What is an arm lift surgery?

An arm lift — also known as brachioplasty — is a surgical procedure that reshapes and contours the upper arms by removing excess skin and fat.

During the procedure, your surgeon will make a discreet incision along the inner or back part of the arm to minimize visible scarring. The underlying tissues are then tightened, unwanted fat is removed, and the remaining skin is smoothed and repositioned to create a slimmer, more toned appearance.

The result? Arms that look firmer, more youthful, and beautifully in proportion with your body.

Who is a suitable candidate for arm lift surgery?

Candidates for arm lift surgery are individuals who have realistic expectations and are generally in good health. They should have significant loose skin or excess fat deposits on the upper arms that have not responded to exercise or dieting.

It is important to consult with a qualified plastic surgeon who can evaluate your specific case and determine if you are a suitable candidate.

The consultation process:

Before undergoing arm lift surgery, an initial consultation with Dr. Secretan is necessary. During this consultation, he will evaluate your medical history, examine your arms, discuss your expectations and goals, and explain the potential risks and benefits of the procedure. If it is decided that you will have the surgery, he will also provide pre-operative instructions, including any necessary preparations before surgery.

The surgical procedure:

Arm lift surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia, meaning you’ll be asleep throughout the procedure. Dr. Secretan will make incisions along the inner or back part of your arm, carefully planned to minimize visible scarring. The length and pattern of incisions depend on the amount of excess skin to be removed. Liposuction may be performed to remove excess fat deposits. The underlying tissue is then reshaped and tightened, and the remaining skin is draped back over the arm and sutured in place.

Recovery and aftercare:

After the surgery, you will be given specific instructions on caring for your incisions, managing discomfort, and promoting healing. You may need to wear compression garments to minimize swelling and provide support to the surgical area. It is crucial to follow Dr. Secretan’s guidelines regarding physical activity, avoiding strenuous exercises, and gradually returning to normal activities. The recovery time can vary, but most people can expect some swelling and bruising for a few weeks.

Potential risks and complications:

As with any surgical procedure, arm lift surgery carries certain risks, including infection, bleeding, adverse reactions to anesthesia, scarring, asymmetry, changes in sensation, and delayed wound healing. It is essential to have a thorough discussion with Dr. Secretan about these risks and understand the potential outcomes before making a decision.

Why Choose LPSA for Your Arm Lift Surgery

When it comes to surgical body contouring, you deserve a team that understands both the art and science of creating beautiful, natural-looking results. At Lethbridge Plastic Surgery & Aesthetics, we bring years of specialized experience and a commitment to personalized care.

Here’s why clients across Southern Alberta trust us for their arm lift surgery:

• Board-Certified Surgeons with extensive experience in body contouring and skin-tightening procedures
• State-of-the-Art Surgical Facility built for comfort, safety, and discretion
• Tailored Treatment Plans designed to fit your unique goals and body type
• Exceptional Post-Surgical Support with detailed recovery guidance every step of the way
• Trusted Across Alberta — proudly serving patients from Lethbridge, Calgary, Medicine Hat, and surrounding areas

From consultation to recovery, we’re here to help you feel confident, supported, and proud of your results.

Brachioplasty Arm Lift Surgery FAQs

Will there be visible scarring?

Yes — as with any surgery, scarring is expected. However, we place incisions strategically along the inner or back part of the arm where they’re less visible. Scars typically fade significantly over time with proper care.

What is the recovery time after an arm lift?

Most patients can return to light activities within 1–2 weeks and resume regular exercise after 4–6 weeks. Swelling and bruising are normal and gradually subside during the healing process. We’ll provide you with detailed recovery instructions and support.

Does an arm lift hurt?

Discomfort is expected in the first few days, but we’ll prescribe pain medication to help you stay comfortable. Most patients describe the recovery as manageable and well worth the results.

How much is an arm lift in Alberta?

Costs vary depending on the complexity of the procedure and whether additional treatments, like liposuction, are included. In Southern Alberta, typical pricing ranges from $5,500 to $8,500. During your consultation, we’ll provide a personalized quote based on your unique goals.

How long will my results last?

Arm lift results are long-lasting, especially when paired with a healthy lifestyle. While natural aging continues, the improvement in arm contour is permanent as long as your weight remains stable.

Can I combine an arm lift with other procedures?

Absolutely. Many patients choose to combine brachioplasty with procedures like liposuction or body contouring after major weight loss. We’ll discuss all your options during your consultation.

Is arm lift surgery safe?

Like all surgeries, brachioplasty carries some risks, but serious complications are rare — especially in healthy individuals. We’ll review your medical history and walk you through the risks and precautions in full before surgery.

Book Your Arm Lift Surgery Consultation in Southern Alberta

Ready to achieve firmer, more sculpted arms? Our expert team at LPSA is here to guide you from consultation to beautiful results. 

Whether you’re from Lethbridge, Calgary, Medicine Hat, or anywhere in Southern Alberta, we’re proud to be your trusted destination for arm lift surgery. Book your private consultation today and take the first step toward renewed confidence.