Upper Arm Lifting
Reduce excess skin, smooth the contours of the upper arms, and get rid of the "bat wing" feeling – with discreet scar management and harmonious shaping.
Overview of the treatment
The most important facts
Operation Duration: approx. 90–150 min.
Anesthesia: General anesthesia
Compression sleeve: 4–6 weeks
Suitable if...
after weight loss or with increasing skin laxity, there is disturbing excess skin on the upper arms.
Friction, sweating, or skin irritation affects the inner sides.
a pure liposuction is not sufficient (excess skin remains).
Weight is stable and quitting smoking is possible (healing & scar quality).
Methods & Variants
Mini Lift (Axillary Fold)
Short cut in the natural axillary fold; suitable for mild excess in the upper third. Scar often concealed in slip/top.Medial Longitudinal Lift
Longitudinal scar on the inner side (often additionally with a short axillary incision), when excess skin is prominent along the arm. Course/length will be adjusted to anatomy and goals.Combination with Liposuction
For contour refinement at the edges and reduction of remaining fat pads; we will plan the order and areas precisely.Skin Tightening Support (e.g., Renuvion)
In selected cases for subdermal support – does not replace a tightening surgery in cases of significant laxity.
Which variant makes sense will be determined after assessment, skin/tissue findings, and target image.
Process – Step by Step
Consultation
We discuss goals, complaints, and questions, examine skin quality and soft tissues, document the findings, and explain scar management, realistic outcomes, and the healing process – calmly and transparently.
Preparation
Photo documentation, measurement, surgical information, adjusting compression sleeves. Instructions regarding quitting smoking, medication, hygiene in the armpit area, and organization of the first days.
Treatment/Surgery
Under general anesthesia, we remove excess skin/fat tissue, tighten the envelope in a low-tension manner, and sculpt a harmonious contour; liposuction at transitions for smooth lines. Drains only if necessary; application of the compression sleeve.
Initial Aftercare
Pain/swelling management, wound care (dry, friction-free), compression for 4–6 weeks, early gentle mobilization of the arms. Regular check-ups; activity is increased gradually.
Healing process
After one week, swelling and tension usually subside; you consistently wear the compression sleeve and rest your arms.
After one month, everyday life is generally possible again; you can start light sports after medical clearance.
After three to six months, contours and scars calm down significantly; feelings of tension continue to decrease.
After twelve months, the scar maturation is complete; the result looks well-developed.
Risks & Safety
The upper arms and the armpit area are dynamic, partially warm areas – healing requires special care here. In the first weeks, swelling, bruises, a feeling of tension and temporary changes in sensitivity are normal. Wound healing disturbances or edge openings can occur – especially with friction, nicotine, or pre-stressed skin – we prevent this with tissue-conserving techniques, precise fixation, compression sleeves, good hygiene, and close monitoring.
Specifically, seromas, lymph stasis, scar abnormalities (widening/hypertrophy), asymmetries, and rarely skin edge/adipose tissue necrosis are possible. Regardless, there are general surgical/anesthesia risks (infection, bleeding, thrombosis/embolism). You can support the recovery by refraining from smoking, providing friction-free care, consistently wearing the compression sleeves, and gradually increasing load. In case of warning signs (unilateral severe redness, fever, increasing pain), please contact us immediately – you have a clear emergency contact path, and we are reachable.
Combinations & Alternatives
Liposuction (in case of primary excess fat)
Lateral thorax/„Axillary Roll“ or Back folds – possibly combined correction
Thigh lift in case of additional excess skin on the legs (individual planning)
