When it comes to achieving slimmer, more contoured arms, two of the most common cosmetic procedures are arm lift surgery (brachioplasty) and liposuction. Both procedures target unwanted fat and help sculpt the upper arms, but they are designed for different concerns and goals.

What Is an Arm Lift?

An arm lift, or brachioplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the upper arms. It’s ideal for patients who have experienced significant weight loss or skin laxity due to aging and are left with loose, sagging skin that cannot be corrected with exercise alone.

During the procedure, an incision is made and excess tissue is removed. The remaining skin is tightened to create a smoother, firmer contour. This procedure is often recommended for individuals with noticeable skin drooping or “bat wings” that interfere with comfort or confidence.

What Is Arm Liposuction?

Arm liposuction is a minimally invasive procedure that targets and removes excess fat deposits from the upper arms through small incisions. A thin tube called a cannula is inserted to break up and suction out the fat, creating a leaner arm appearance.

Liposuction is best suited for individuals who have good skin elasticity and are primarily concerned with localized fat pockets, rather than sagging skin. It is less invasive than an arm lift and typically involves a shorter recovery time, but it won’t address significant skin laxity.

Key Differences Between the Procedures

The most significant difference between an arm lift and arm liposuction lies in what each procedure addresses. An arm lift is designed to remove both excess fat and loose, sagging skin, making it ideal for patients who have lost a significant amount of weight or are experiencing skin laxity due to aging. In contrast, liposuction only targets fat deposits and relies on the skin’s natural elasticity to retract and contour the arm after the fat is removed.

In some cases, the best results may come from combining both an arm lift and liposuction. This approach allows the surgeon to first remove stubborn fat deposits through liposuction, then address any remaining loose or sagging skin with an arm lift. By pairing the two procedures, patients can achieve more comprehensive contouring and smoother, firmer upper arms.

Which One Is Right for You?

Choosing between an arm lift and liposuction depends on your specific concerns, anatomy, and cosmetic goals. If you have excess skin and fat, an arm lift may be the more appropriate option. If your main concern is stubborn fat with relatively firm skin, liposuction might be sufficient.

A personal consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon at Manhattan Plastic Surgery, P.L.L.C. is the best way to determine which procedure aligns with your desired outcome. We take a patient-centered approach and will assess your needs to recommend a tailored solution that helps you look and feel your best.

Contact Manhattan Plastic Surgery, P.L.L.C. to schedule your consultation and explore whether an arm lift or liposuction is right for you. Visit our office in New York, New York, or call (212) 584-7001 to book an appointment today.