Body procedures
Arm Lift ( Brachioplasty) in Seattle, WA
What Is an Arm Lift?
An Arm Lift or Brachioplasty, is a surgical procedure that reshapes the upper arms by removing excess skin and fat, resulting in a smoother, firmer, and more toned appearance.
Over time, weight fluctuations, aging, or genetics can cause the skin on the upper arms to lose elasticity, leading to sagging or a “loose” appearance — sometimes referred to as “bat wings.”
At La Belle Vie Cosmetic, our goal is to restore natural contour and confidence by tightening and sculpting the upper arms for results that look both graceful and balanced.
Benefits of an Arm Lift
- Removes excess skin and fat from the upper arms
- Restores a firmer, more youthful arm contour
- Improves overall body proportion and symmetry
- Enhances comfort and confidence in fitted clothing or sleeveless styles
- Can be combined with liposuction for optimal shaping
- Long-lasting, natural-looking results
Who Is a Candidate for an Arm Lift?
You may be an excellent candidate if you:
- Have loose or hanging skin on your upper arms due to weight loss or aging
- Are at or near your ideal, stable weight
- Have good skin elasticity in other areas of the body
- Are in good overall health and do not smoke
- Have realistic expectations and a commitment to proper recovery
An arm lift is often chosen by patients who have lost significant weight or simply want to restore definition and tone to the arms.
The Procedure
An arm lift is typically performed under general anesthesia.
The incision placement and technique depend on the degree of correction needed:
Limited (Mini) Arm Lift
For mild to moderate skin laxity, incisions are placed discreetly in the armpit area.
Standard Arm Lift
For more extensive tightening, incisions extend along the inner arm from the armpit to the elbow, allowing for greater contour improvement.
Through these incisions, excess skin is removed, and underlying tissues are tightened and reshaped. Liposuction may be used to refine the arm contour further. Incisions are closed with fine sutures to promote smooth healing and minimal scarring. The procedure typically takes about two hours, depending on the extent of the lift.
Recovery and Aftercare
After surgery, compression garments are worn to minimize swelling and support the newly contoured arms.
Mild bruising, swelling, or tightness are common in the first week and are managed comfortably with prescribed medication.
Most patients return to light daily activities within 7–10 days, with full recovery — including resuming exercise — expected around six weeks.
Your surgeon will provide detailed aftercare instructions to ensure optimal healing and beautifully refined results.
Results
Results from an arm lift are visible immediately after surgery, with continued improvement as swelling subsides.
The arms appear smoother, tighter, and more defined — restoring youthful contour and proportion.
With proper care and a healthy lifestyle, your results can be long-lasting, helping you feel confident and comfortable in your natural shape.
Combining Procedures
For a more comprehensive transformation, an arm lift can be combined with:
Thigh Lift
To refine the lower body.
Buttock Lift or Body Lift
For full-body contouring.
Liposuction
To target additional areas of unwanted fat.
Over 20 years of clinical experience
Dr. Mangubat has over 20 years of clinical experience. He is a board-certified cosmetic surgeon. Patients choose him because he listens to his patients’ goals and concerns, and will be honest with you. He will do everything possible to deliver the results you desire. Communication and trust are hallmarks of his practice approach. He likes informed patients and always involves his patients in the decision-making process.
Call today for a complimentary consultation and discover your options.
Why Choose La Belle Vie Cosmetic
An arm lift requires both surgical precision and artistic balance to ensure natural, elegant results.
At La Belle Vie Cosmetic, Dr. Tony Mangubat combines extensive experience in body contouring with an aesthetic eye to deliver outcomes that are smooth, proportionate, and tailored to your physique.
Our team provides compassionate, personalized care from consultation to recovery, ensuring your journey is comfortable and rewarding.
Schedule a Consultation
If you’re ready to restore firmness and confidence to your arms, schedule a private consultation at La Belle Vie Cosmetic.
Our experienced team will evaluate your goals, discuss your options, and create a customized surgical plan to help you achieve slimmer, more defined arms that complement your natural beauty.
Request an appointment
GET STARTED WITH YOUR CONSULTATION
During your personalized session, Dr. Tony will listen to your goals, answer all of your questions, and provide expert recommendations tailored to your needs. Fill out the form or call us 206-575-0300! Virtual Consultations Available!*
*Virtual consultations are reserved for out-of-state patients or those located more than a several-hour drive away. Please contact us to discuss your eligibility for a virtual appointment.
*Virtual consultations are reserved for out-of-state patients or those located more than a several-hour drive away. Please contact us to discuss your eligibility for a virtual appointment.