BRACHIOPLASTY
ARM LIFT
Loose, sagging skin on the upper arms — often called 'bat wings' — is one of the most common body contouring concerns, particularly following significant weight loss or with advancing age. This excess skin rarely responds to exercise, as the issue is structural rather than muscular. An arm lift (brachioplasty) removes this excess skin and fat, reshaping the upper arm into a smoother, more toned contour. Turkey offers expert brachioplasty surgery in accredited facilities, as part of a comprehensive body contouring programme.
Arm lift surgery in Turkey is frequently performed as part of a post-bariatric body contouring plan or alongside other upper and lower body procedures. Istanbul's plastic surgeons are experienced in the full range of brachioplasty techniques — from minimal-scar approaches for mild laxity to extended brachioplasty for patients with significant excess skin following major weight loss — and provide comprehensive care for international patients throughout the process.
WHAT IS ARM LIFT? Brachioplasty removes excess skin and fat from the inner upper arm, from the axilla (armpit) to, in some cases, the elbow. An incision is placed along the inner arm — in the bicipital groove — where it is concealed as much as possible. The excess skin is excised, the underlying tissue is tightened, and the arm is reshaped to a smoother, more proportionate contour. For patients with mild laxity, a limited incision in the armpit alone may be sufficient. For more significant excess skin, an extended incision running down the inner arm is required. The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia and takes 1.5–3 hours. A compression garment is worn for 4–6 weeks, and daily activities resume within 2 weeks.
AM I THE RIGHT CANDIDATE?
• You have excess skin on the inner upper arm that sags when the arm is extended — often following significant weight loss or due to age-related skin laxity.
• You are at a stable weight and have maintained this for at least 6 months.
• You have realistic expectations regarding scarring — a long inner arm scar is an inevitable trade-off for significant arm reshaping.
• You are in good general health with no contraindications to general anaesthesia.
BENEFITS OF ARM LIFT
• Smoother, more defined upper arms: Removes the skin overhang that creates the sagging appearance.
• Improved comfort: Eliminates skin chafing and discomfort from excess inner arm skin.
• Greater clothing freedom: Patients report renewed confidence in sleeveless clothing.
• Part of a comprehensive transformation: Brachioplasty is a key component of full post-bariatric body contouring.
HOW DO WE PROCEED?
Step 1 — Online Consultation: Share photos of your upper arms with arm extended horizontally. Our surgeon assesses skin laxity and recommends the appropriate technique.
Step 2 — Treatment Plan & Quote: Plan covering technique, scar length and placement, and clear pricing is provided.
Step 3 — Travel Arrangements: Hotel and transfer arranged.
Step 4 — Pre-operative Assessment: Blood tests and face-to-face consultation on arrival.
Step 5 — Surgery & Recovery: General anaesthesia; day case or one overnight stay.
Step 6 — Follow-up & Aftercare: Post-operative check before departure; remote support throughout recovery.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What makes Turkey a preferred destination for brachioplasty?
Turkey's surgeons are experienced in the full range of arm lift techniques, including extended brachioplasty for post-bariatric patients, within a high-standard, supportive international patient care environment.How long is the scar?
This depends on the extent of excess skin. A limited axillary approach leaves a scar confined to the armpit. A full brachioplasty scar runs the length of the inner upper arm and is placed in the bicipital groove to minimise visibility.Will the scar be visible?
The inner arm scar is placed to be concealed when the arm is at the side. It is visible when the arm is raised. Scars fade significantly over 12–18 months but are permanent.How long is the recovery?
Arm movement is restricted for the first 2 weeks to protect healing incisions. Daily activities resume within 2 weeks; exercise from 4–6 weeks. Compression sleeves are worn for 4–6 weeks.Can brachioplasty be combined with liposuction?
Yes — liposuction of the upper arm or lateral chest can be performed at the same time to optimise overall arm contour.Can brachioplasty be combined with other procedures?
Yes — it is frequently part of a comprehensive post-bariatric body contouring plan alongside thigh lift, abdominoplasty, and breast procedures.Are results permanent?
The skin removed does not return. Weight stability and sun protection help maintain results long-term.Will I have limited arm movement after surgery?
Arm movement is temporarily restricted for the first 1–2 weeks. Full range of motion is restored during the recovery period.How do I prepare?
Stable weight is essential. Avoid blood-thinning medications. Full instructions provided post-consultation.How do I get started?
Share photos via the form below or on WhatsApp. Our team will provide a personalised assessment within 24–48 hours.
DOCTOR'S NOTE Brachioplasty is a procedure where I am always very direct about the trade-off involved: we are exchanging the sagging skin for a scar. For most of my patients — particularly those who have undergone major weight loss — this is an entirely acceptable trade. Sleeveless tops, previously unthinkable, become possible. The physical discomfort of excess skin disappears. The transformation in self-confidence is remarkable. My focus is on scar quality: meticulous closure technique, early scar management advice, and realistic expectation-setting from the very first consultation.