Arm Lift, Arm Reduction (Brachioplasty)
An arm lift plastic surgery, or brachioplasty, removes excess skin and fat, reducing the circumference and reshaping the upper arm area. Careful planning and excision of the excess skin and fat can conceal the scar on the inner side of the arm, improve the patient’s ability to fit into clothing and improve general comfort in this area.
In certain patients, the modified arm lift (a smaller procedure) limits the scar to only the armpit and is normally combined with a liposuction procedure to remove the fat through a keyhole wound.
Planning your Arm Lift Plastic Surgery
The consultation
In your initial consultation, Dr Barnouti will assess your health and explain which surgical techniques are most appropriate for you, based on the quality of your skin and the amount of fat present. Please be sure to talk about your expectations with him.
This surgery is not suitable after mastectomy or other operations in the axillary (armpit) lymph nodes.
The surgery
The procedure is typically carried out under general or local anesthesia. Surgical correction depends on the amount of excess skin and the degree of looseness in the supporting tissues. Excess skin is removed through incisions made along the inner arm, placing the incision where the tissues can be most effectively tightened. The incision may extend from the inside of the elbow to the inside of the armpit. Surgical sculpting involves addressing not only the superficial skin but also the deeper attachments that have become loose. In cases of limited excess skin, the incision can be concealed in the armpit, which can also help to re-suspend tissues in some cases. When there is excess fat and the skin is reasonably tight, the procedure of choice is liposuction, which is performed through a small puncture wound.
Regardless of the location of the surgical incision, every effort is made to ensure that the resulting scars will be as inconspicuous as possible. Drainage tubes following the operation are usually not needed, and the surgery usually takes about 2.5 hours to complete. Dissolving stitches are used to close the incisions, which are also taped for greater support.
After Surgery
Be sure to arrange for someone to drive you home after your surgery and to help you out for a few days.
You’re likely to feel sore in the arms for a few days following your surgery, but you’ll be up and around in 24 to 48 hours. Most of your discomfort can be controlled by medication that we will prescribe. Within several days, the dressings tape will be removed, and you will be asked to wear a compression garment. This is to reduce swelling and assist in shrinking and tightening of the skin. You should wear it as directed. Elevations of the arm with pillows while sleeping will increase comfort. The sutures are absorbable.
Getting you back to work and normal activities
Most patients can return to work within a week, depending on the level of activity required for one’s job. Limiting heavy lifting is essential for 1-2 weeks.
Exercise and regular activities may be resumed in 2 weeks.
Your scars will be firm and pink for at least six weeks. They may remain the same size for several months.
Mandatory Surgical Warning
Surgical Warning: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner. Please read our Risks and Complications of Plastic Surgery page.
GP Referral & Assessment Requirements
In accordance with the latest April 2026 AHPRA and Medical Board of Australia regulations, all patients seeking a consultation for cosmetic surgery must obtain a referral from their General Practitioner (GP). This ensures your medical history is reviewed by an independent doctor who can discuss your motivations and goals before you meet with a specialist.
A mandatory seven-day cooling-off period applies after your initial consultation before surgery can be booked. Patients are also encouraged to seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner before proceeding. These requirements exist to protect patients and to ensure every decision is fully informed and free of pressure.
Sydney Arm Lift Costs
| Procedure | Price Estimate | Conditions / Comments |
|---|
| Lower Body lift (Abdominoplasty, outer thigh lift, buttock lift and liposuction to outer thighs, buttocks and flanks) | $24,990-$34,990 | This price includes surgeon fee, anaesthetic fee 6 weeks follow up. If fund cover does not apply in your situation, plan for additional hospital costs. You may be eligible for Medicare rebate of $800. |
| Upper Body lift (Reduction of upper back folds, underarm folds, liposuction of back and side-of-chest) | $16,990-$20,990 | This price includes surgeon fee, anaesthetic fee 6 weeks follow up. It assumes top hospital cover with a private fund. If fund cover does not apply in your situation, plan for additional hospital costs. You may be eligible for Medicare rebate of $800. |
| Thigh Reduction/ Lift | $13,990-$19,990 | This price includes surgeon fee, anaesthetic fee 6 weeks follow up. If fund cover does not apply in your situation, plan for additional costs of around $7,000 for the hospital. You may be eligible for $400 Medicare rebate. |
| Arm Reduction | $9,990-$16,990 | This price includes surgeon fee, anaesthetic fee 6 weeks follow up. If fund cover does not apply in your situation, plan for additional hospital costs of around $3,000. You may be eligible for $400 Medicare rebate. |
Page Content Clinically Reviewed by Dr Barnouti
Dr. Barnouti (MED: 0001192783) is a Board-Certified Specialist Plastic Surgeon with 25 years of experience performing advanced cosmetic and reconstructive procedures. He is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS), a member of ASAPS, and serves as a Senior Lecturer at the University of NSW.
Dr. Barnouti operates out of leading, fully accredited Sydney hospitals with a strict focus on patient safety.
Dr. Barnouti (MED: 0001192783)