Arm lift surgery in Sydney, also known as brachioplasty, is a procedure designed to remove excess skin and improve the contour of the upper arms. Many patients notice loose or sagging upper arm skin after significant weight loss, natural ageing, or genetic factors. As a result, the arms may appear less defined despite exercise and strength training. For this reason, arm lift surgery is commonly requested as part of post-massive weight loss surgery or as a component of broader body contouring after major weight change.
A/Prof Tim Papadopoulos (FRACS) tailors arm lift surgery Sydney to each patient’s anatomy, skin quality and goals. During consultation, Dr Tim assesses the amount of excess skin, residual fat deposits and scar placement options. He then discusses suitability, recovery, risks and realistic expectations as part of informed consent. Importantly, individual results vary.
In addition, Dr Tim may discuss whether other contouring procedures—such as upper body lift or bra line back lift—are relevant when excess skin affects multiple upper-body regions.
What an Arm Lift Can Address
Arm lift surgery may help improve:
loose or excess upper arm skin
“batwing” appearance of the upper arms
skin laxity after weight loss
skin laxity related to ageing
However, an arm lift is not a weight-loss procedure. Instead, it focuses on improving contour in patients with skin laxity that does not respond to exercise. However, when patients also have laxity in other regions, Dr Tim may recommend exploring procedures such as thigh lift surgery or lower body lift as part of a staged plan.
How Brachioplasty Surgery Is Performed
Dr Tim performs brachioplasty using planned incisions designed to remove excess skin while keeping scars as discreet as possible.
Depending on anatomy and correction required, Dr Tim may:
remove a segment of excess skin along the inner upper arm
remove or contour underlying fat where appropriate
reshape the arm contour for improved proportion
close incisions meticulously to support scar quality
In selected patients, Dr Tim may combine brachioplasty with liposuction to improve contour. However, suitability depends on skin quality and the degree of laxity.
Recovery and Important Considerations
Following arm lift surgery, patients typically experience swelling and bruising in the early recovery phase. Dr Tim provides detailed aftercare instructions and follow-up planning. Importantly, recovery timelines vary among individuals based on the extent of surgery and the healing response.
Because brachioplasty involves surgical incisions, scarring is expected. For this reason, Dr Tim discusses scar placement carefully during consultation and provides guidance on scar care.
Choosing arm lift surgery in Sydney is a personal decision. Many patients explore several options before considering surgery. For example, some patients first try lifestyle changes, strength training, or non-surgical skin-tightening treatments. However, when excess skin remains significant, an arm lift may be appropriate.
Our team provides a respectful, patient-focused approach to support informed decision-making and realistic expectations.
Suitability for arm lift surgery Sydney is confirmed during consultation.
Disclaimer: All surgical procedures carry inherent risks. The information provided here is general in nature and should not be used as a substitute for an in-person consultation with a qualified specialist. Individual outcomes vary based on anatomy, healing, and adherence to post-operative care. A/Prof Tim Papadopoulos will discuss the potential risks, benefits, and realistic expectations during your consultation.
Brachioplasty (Arm Lift) is a procedure that focuses on addressing loose or excess skin in the upper arm area.
The surgery can be performed under general anaesthesia.
During the procedure, an incision is made on the underside of the arm, and excess skin and tissue are removed.
The length and pattern of the incision depend on the amount and location of the excess skin to be removed.
It can be an option for individuals who have maintained a stable weight and engage in a healthy lifestyle, but experience skin laxity in the upper arm region.
The surgery duration may vary based on individual circumstances.
These facts provide a general understanding of the procedure. We encourage patients to have a detailed consultation with Dr. Tim to fully understand the specifics of the procedure based on their unique circumstances.
What can I expect during my consultation process with Dr. Tim for brachioplasty (arm lift)?
Every patient considering cosmetic surgery will have at least two pre-operative consultations. Your initial consultation will be a comprehensive discussion with Dr. Tim or another registered health practitioner from his team. This helps us understand your objectives and assess your overall health.
Dr. Tim is committed to transparent communication. He will explain the brachioplasty procedure in detail, discuss what to expect, potential risks, and outline the recovery process.
At least one of your consultations will be a face-to-face meeting with Dr. Tim. The rest can be either in-person or via a video call.
These consultations provide an opportunity to discuss your expected results and receive professional advice from Dr. Tim based on his extensive experience. Dr. Tim's aim is to equip you with all the knowledge necessary to make an informed decision about whether brachioplasty is the right choice for you.
Do I need a referral to schedule a consultation?
Yes, all our patients need a referral to schedule a cosmetic consultation. Ideally, this should come from your regular general practitioner. However, if that's not possible, any other general practitioner or specialist medical practitioner will be suitable.
Does Dr. Tim incorporate psychological screening as part of the pre-surgery process?
Absolutely! Dr. Tim places a significant emphasis on the psychological well-being of all his patients. We believe that a sound mind is vital to ensure you’re making this decision for the right reasons.
Dr. Tim or a registered health practitioner from his team will carry out a mandatory psychological assessment. This includes a discussion about your motivations for the procedure.
We encourage an open conversation about your surgical history. If another practitioner has declined to provide you cosmetic surgery, we need to hear about it so we can understand your history and guide you appropriately.
Our primary goal is your well-being. This means that there may be instances where we might advise against cosmetic surgery if it appears not to be in your best interest. We'll discuss this in detail with you and offer alternative suggestions for care and support.
Is there a cooling-off period before my surgery?
Yes, we require a cooling-off period of at least seven days after your two consultations and signing of the consent forms. This ensures that you're completely confident with your decision. This period provides some space and time to contemplate your decision and ask any more questions that might arise.
Are Dr Tim’s facilities accredited by an Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care (ACSQHC) approved agency?
Yes, all of Dr Tim’s surgery will be performed in a purpose-built facility accredited by an Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care (ACSQHC) approved agency.
We are fully equipped and staffed to manage any complications and emergencies.
What are the possible complications associated with brachioplasty (arm lift)?
While complications are rare and Dr Tim takes every precaution to minimise risks, potential complications can include infection, bleeding, poor healing of incisions, and changes in skin sensation.
For more information, please see the Risks of Brachioplasty section above.
Dr Tim will discuss these in more detail during your consultation.
Will my health insurance cover the cost of the surgery?
Brachioplasty is generally considered an elective cosmetic procedure, meaning that it may only be partly covered or not covered at all by most health insurance plans. However, the coverage can vary greatly between different insurers and policies.
We strongly recommend checking with your insurance company to understand your coverage better.
Will there be a significant change in my arm size after brachioplasty?
While brachioplasty can change the shape and contour of your arms, it is not intended as a weight loss method. The primary goal is to remove excess skin and make minor adjustments to the arm's shape, not to reduce the arm's size drastically.
What type of anesthesia is used during an arm lift procedure?
Brachioplasty is typically performed under general anesthesia. This means that you will be asleep throughout the procedure and will not experience any pain or discomfort.
How visible will the scars be?
While scarring from an arm lift is inevitable, the incisions are generally placed in areas that are less visible (inner arm or back of the arm) and will fade over time. Dr. Tim will discuss scar management strategies with you.
What happens if I gain weight after my arm lift?
Significant weight gain can affect the results of your arm lift, as the skin may stretch and become loose again. Maintaining a stable weight will help to preserve the results of your surgery.
Risks of Brachioplasty (Arm Lift)
Like any surgical procedure, brachioplasty (arm lift) comes with its potential risks and complications. Dr. Tim believes in transparency and ensures that patients are well-informed about all possible outcomes. Here are a few risks associated with this surgery:
Bleeding: As with any surgery, there’s a risk of bleeding during and after the procedure. Dr. Tim takes every precaution to minimise this risk.
Infection: While rare, infections can occur after any surgical procedure. Should an infection occur, it’s typically treatable with antibiotics.
Scarring: An arm lift requires an incision, and therefore, scarring is inevitable. However, Dr. Tim’s surgical techniques are designed to reduce visible scarring, and any remaining scars often fade over time.
Changes in Skin Sensation: You may experience temporary changes in skin sensation around the surgical site, including numbness or tingling. This usually resolves over time.
Poor Wound Healing: Some individuals may experience delayed wound healing or wound separation. This is more common in smokers and individuals with certain medical conditions.
Seroma: This is a condition where fluid accumulates under the skin following surgery. If this happens, it may need to be drained.
Adverse Reaction to Anaesthesia: With any surgery where you go under general anaesthetic, there is a risk of adverse reaction to anaesthesia. The anaesthetist will discuss this with you in detail prior to your procedure.
It’s important to discuss these risks thoroughly with Dr. Tim during your consultation. His extensive experience and commitment to patient safety help to minimise these risks and promote an optimal surgical outcome.
Recovery from Brachioplasty (Arm Lift)
Everyone’s recovery process is unique, but there are common steps most patients can expect when recovering from a brachioplasty:
Day of the surgery: After your procedure, you will be monitored in a recovery room for a few hours before being discharged to go home. You will need to arrange for a someone to drive you home and ideally stay with you for the first 24 hours.
First week: You will likely experience swelling and bruising in the surgical area, which will peak after about 48 hours and then gradually subside. Pain is usually well-controlled with prescribed medication.
Two weeks: Sutures are typically removed at this stage, and you can usually return to non-strenuous work.
Four to six weeks: You will typically be able to resume strenuous activities or exercise, but always follow Dr. Tim’s guidance.
Three to six months: Swelling should be completely resolved, and you will be able to see the final results of your brachioplasty.
One year: Incision lines, while permanent, will continue to fade and improve over the next year.
Remember, these are average timelines and your recovery may be faster or slower. Dr. Tim and his team will provide you with detailed postoperative care instructions and will be available to answer any questions or concerns you may have during your recovery.
This content is suitable for an 18+/adult audience only
These photos are of consented patients of this clinic/medical practitioner and have not been altered or digitally enhanced.
Outcomes shown are only relevant for this patient and do not necessarily reflect the results other patients may experience, as results may vary due to many factors including the individual’s genetics, diet and exercise.
Dr Tim is a certified cosmetic and plastic surgeon, past president of the Australasian Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), a member of the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS). Tim is also an International member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Dr Tim is a member and Board Director of the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery and an international active member of the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.
He has undertaken 8-12 years of specialist training beyond his basic medical degree to become a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) which is the only institution accredited to train surgeons in Australia and New Zealand. He is the current Head of the Department of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery at Westmead Private Hospital.
As a Sydney plastic surgeon Dr Tim focuses on cosmetic surgery of the face, breast and body.
Dr Tim is a certified cosmetic and plastic surgeon, past president of the Australasian Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), a member of the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS). Tim is also an International member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Dr Tim is a member and Board Director of the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery and an international active member of the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.
He has undertaken 8-12 years of specialist training beyond his basic medical degree to become a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) which is the only institution accredited to train surgeons in Australia and New Zealand. He is the current Head of the Department of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery at Westmead Private Hospital.
As a Sydney plastic surgeon Dr Tim focuses on cosmetic surgery of the face, breast and body.
Dr. Tim is a highly experienced specialist plastic surgeon known for his commitment to patient safety, advanced surgical techniques, and meticulous care. He prioritizes evidence-based procedures to deliver natural-looking, long-lasting results.
Precision
With an exceptional eye for detail and surgical expertise, Dr. Tim ensures every procedure—whether facelift, body contouring, or breast augmentation—is performed with precision, artistry, and the latest medical advancements.
Your Wellbeing & Comfort
Dr. Tim takes a patient-centered approach, guiding you from consultation to post-operative care. He provides personalised surgical plans to help you make informed decisions, ensuring your safety, comfort, and satisfaction throughout your cosmetic surgery journey.
Professional Integrity
As a specialist plastic surgeon, Dr. Tim is dedicated to excellence in aesthetic surgery. His contributions to medical education, training future surgeons, and speaking at global conferences reinforce his reputation as a leader in the field of cosmetic surgery.
Have Questions About Cosmetic Surgery?
Understanding your options is important. Our team is available to provide factual information about procedures and answer any concerns you may have. Book a consultation to receive professional advice tailored to your needs.
