Arm lift surgery, also known as brachioplasty, is a cosmetic procedure designed to remove excess skin and fat from the upper arms, restoring a firmer and more defined appearance. In Turkey, this operation has become increasingly popular due to the country’s advanced medical infrastructure, experienced plastic surgeons, and competitive pricing. Still, as with any surgical procedure, it is essential to discuss every detail with a qualified plastic, reconstructive, and aesthetic surgeon before making a decision.
Before having an arm lift surgery in Turkey, make sure to read the following information provided by Associate Professor Dr. Özay Özkaya from the Turkish Society of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgery.
What Is an Arm Lift Surgery?
An arm lift involves removing excess skin and fat through an incision placed along the inner side of the upper arm, usually extending toward the armpit. Before removing excess skin, the surgeon may first perform liposuction to contour the arm and reduce fatty tissue. After that, the remaining loose skin is trimmed and tightened to create a smoother, more toned arm contour.
Tip: If you have had surgery and things didn’t go as planned, be sure to check out our article “What to Do If a Surgery in Turkey Goes Wrong.”
Can Sagging Under the Arms Be Treated?
Yes, sagging skin beneath the arms can be effectively treated. Just like facial or abdominal laxity, arm sagging often results from aging, gravity, or significant weight loss—for example, after losing 40–50 kilograms following bariatric surgery. Plastic and reconstructive surgeons are trained to address such skin laxity issues, including arm contour correction. The appropriate treatment depends on how severe the sagging is and the patient’s skin elasticity.
What Kind of Procedure Is Performed for Arm Sagging?
Mild sagging: Non-surgical treatments such as radiofrequency or laser skin tightening can help restore firmness by stimulating collagen production.
Moderate sagging: When mild fat accumulation accompanies skin looseness, liposuction can be performed, followed by wearing a compression garment for 3–6 weeks to support healing.
Severe sagging: In more advanced cases—where the skin hangs significantly from the inner or back side of the arm—a full arm lift surgery is required. This procedure provides a long-term, visible improvement in arm shape.
Your surgeon will assess your skin condition, body type, and goals before determining which approach is most suitable for you.
What Is “Bat Wing” Arm Sagging, and How Is It Treated?
“Bat wing” arms refer to the most advanced stage of arm sagging, often seen in patients who have lost a large amount of weight, either through bariatric surgery or strict diet and exercise. In these cases, the loose skin extends from the inner arm down to the armpit and even toward the outer chest wall. Treatment involves an extended arm lift procedure that not only tightens the upper arm but also removes excess skin from the armpit and side of the chest. This creates a smoother and more natural transition between the arm and the torso.
What Is the Recovery Process After an Arm Lift?
After surgery, a thin incision line runs from the inner elbow to the armpit. To support healing and help the skin adhere smoothly to the underlying tissues, patients are provided with a compression garment. It is typically worn continuously for the first three weeks and then only during the day for another three weeks.
Dissolvable sutures or surgical skin adhesives are commonly used, meaning stitches usually do not need to be removed. Patients attend regular follow-ups for dressing changes, and most can return to daily activities and exercise about six weeks after the procedure.
Are the Arm Lift Scars Permanent?
Some scarring is inevitable after an arm lift, but over time, the incision line fades and becomes much less noticeable. The final appearance depends on individual healing characteristics and the surgeon’s technique. When the incision is carefully placed along the natural contours of the arm, the scar is easily concealed and usually not bothersome. Following your surgeon’s postoperative skincare instructions can help the scar heal smoothly and fade more quickly.
Arm lift surgery in Turkey offers patients the opportunity to achieve firmer, more youthful-looking arms with the help of skilled surgeons and advanced surgical methods. However, every patient’s anatomy and expectations are unique. For this reason, it is crucial to have a thorough consultation with a board-certified plastic, reconstructive, and aesthetic surgeon to understand the procedure, potential risks, and realistic results before proceeding.
