Arm Lift (Brachioplasty)


What is a Brachioplasty?

Brachioplasty, which is often called an arm lift or arm raise, is a cosmetic plastic surgery procedure that takes away excess and sagging skin between the armpit and the elbow. Patients say an arm lift gives them a younger, toned look, as they experience a kind of rejuvenation.

Though everyone loses skin elasticity with age after a person has dropped a considerable amount of weight the excess skin on their upper arms and surrounding areas may droop and look unsightly.

I have heard from my Encino body contouring patients that they appreciate my unique, female viewpoint. It’s important to me that my relationship with my patients be built on trust.

What are Brachioplasty Benefits?

When undergoing any type of cosmetic surgical procedure, it is important to understand how it may affect your life. Arm lift surgery is no different. Here are some of the positive ways you may notice a change.

Arm Lift - Brachioplasty
  • When you look in the mirror you will see sharp muscle tone
  • Just knowing you look more youthful gives you confidence
  • No more long sleeves hiding those upper arms. Sleeveless clothing never looked so appealing!
  • Improved arm strength
  • No more loose skin

Arm lift plastic surgery

The brachioplasty surgical technique we recommend will depend on how much loose skin and body contouring improvement is required in the upper arm. I primarily perform two types of arm lift surgery, and they are:

Mini arm lift

Patients who require little loose skin removal may benefit from a mini arm lift procedure. During the mini-brachioplasty, I’ll make a small incision under the armpit down the inside of the upper arm to minimize scarring. A mini-lift often includes conservative liposuction and removal of excess skin. The result: a leaner more toned appearance of the upper underarm.

Full arm lift

Patients who have a considerable amount of loose skin and excess fat due to a massive weight loss often benefit most from a traditional full arm lift. These are patients who sometimes say they can’t lift their arm above the shoulder without pain. The procedure eliminates what is called “bat wings” that may be the result of dramatic weight loss. The arms show remarkable contour after this brachioplasty procedure.

A traditional brachioplasty is done under general anesthesia. This cosmetic surgery requires a large incision that begins at the armpit and runs down to the inner elbow. Though the brachioplasty scar will be partially hidden, it will be visible when the arms are extended. To be accepted for this surgery, patients must be willing to accept a visible scar in exchange for the desired contour. For one to three days after surgery, patients experience light to moderate discomfort, which is controlled with pain medication and subsides relatively quickly.

After each of these surgeries, you’ll have a compression garment around your arms.

How much does Brachioplasty (arm lipo) cost?

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average cost of an arm lift is $4,257. The cost may change based on your health and the extent of your surgery. You should also factor in extra money to cover any follow-up procedures you may need.

I’ll go over your total expected cost during your consultation. No surprise bills!

Why it’s critically important to choose a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon

All surgery comes with some risk, we should all know this. But did you know that many doctors who perform plastic surgery are not board-certified plastic surgeons?

When a surgeon is board-certified, it means they have at least 14 years of higher education including special intensive training in reconstructive and cosmetic surgery. 

It also means that in the very unlikely case of a complication, it can be handled quickly and efficiently because they have full admitting privileges at local hospitals. Non-board-certified plastic surgeons do not, thus they cannot even treat you. Additionally, Dr. Saber always works with leading board-certified anesthesiologists during her procedures to ensure patient safety, this is not always the case with all surgeons.

Aren’t all doctors who perform cosmetic plastic surgery procedures board-certified?

Sadly, no. Many are not certified to do the cosmetic procedures they are performing. And that can lead to significant problems for any patient who has any complications. It can also mean that the surgeon who performed your procedure cannot even admit you to a hospital or provide any follow-up care at the hospital. 

Dr. Saber’s extensive training, board certification, and experience as a noted reconstructive surgeon serve as an assurance that her approach to surgery is ethical, safe, and effective.

Why choose Dr. Saber for a brachioplasty in Encino and the Los Angeles area?

Dr. Sepideh Saber, MD, FACS offers a sensitive, female viewpoint for patients of all ages, genders, and orientations. Patients from all walks of life have praised not only their final outcomes but Dr. Saber’s caring, thoughtful approach to all types of plastic surgery, appearance, and accessibility health-related matters.

Dr. Saber graduated from Stanford University’s world-renowned medical school and did her reconstruction and plastic surgery residency at the University of Southern California (USC). She then completed a fellowship at New York University (NYU) in the extremely challenging and delicate area of hand surgery, as well as microsurgery.

To request a consultation, call (877) 205-4100 or click here to schedule online.

The practice of Dr. Saber is located in Encino, CA for patients throughout the Los Angeles area. We are also convenient to Encino, Woodland Hills, Sherman Oaks, Calabasas, Burbank, Glendale, Hidden Hills, Agoura Hills, Northridge, North Hollywood, Malibu, Topanga, Canoga Park, Reseda, Valley Glen, Chatsworth, West Hills, Winnetka, Universal City, Bel Air, Beverly Hills, Downtown Los Angeles, Silverlake, and Echo Park.

What patients say about Dr. Saber

4.8
Over 16 Reviews

I was fortunate to find Dr. Saber after researching board-certified surgeons who specialize in breast cancer reconstruction revision surgery. I knew I was in good hands from the moment I spoke with the lovely and efficient Marlene, Dr Saber's office manager. Dr Saber patiently listened to my concerns and, after examining me, explained what I could realistically expect the outcome to be from another surgery. She also explained to me that she would need to review my previous surgery notes before we could discuss a possible further surgery, which I found comforting and highly ethical. I also discussed a couple of other procedures that I would like done, including fat removal from my large upper arms that had caused me great embarrassment for several years. Dr. Saber is an excellent surgeon who is incredibly kind and genuine. She truly understands the female body and the emotional aspect of body insecurities yet, she is transparent about what can and cannot be done and takes time to discuss realistic expectations and outcomes. My breast reconstruction revision surgery will take place in the New Year, but in the meantime, I have the most fabulous upper arms that I recently flaunted in a strapless dress (something I have not done in years). Dr Saber is truly one of a kind, and I still cannot believe how fortunate I am to have found her. I highly recommend Dr Saber.

Linda DeCarlo November 29, 2023

I don’t have enough wonderful words to describe Dr Saber and Marlene! I had a tummy tuck done this year and from start to finish the entire experience was amazing. Marlene is always so helpful and works so hard to make every detail a breeze for you. When I had my consultation with Dr Saber I was at a point of complete agony with my body. She instantly took that stress and frustration off my shoulders! As a woman not being heard by doctors for years I left that consultation with happy tears knowing I had finally found my Dr. It was a major surgery and I felt completely zen and at peace going in because she really does make you feel that safe. I didn’t think I would ever look the way I do now! She gave me the gift of having the body I kept fighting for. I will never stop recommending her.

Monica Prusa October 9, 2023

I saw Dr. Saber when I broke my wrist. I ended up having to have surgery. She did an excellent job and I am healing nicely. She was very professional, but was also very kind and compassionate. I would highly recommend her!!

Sandy Schaupp September 13, 2022

I LOVED DR SABER!!! There are a few reasons why I chose her. One was because she’s a female Doctor that was my goal who also did a good job (which I was able to confirm with all her before and after photos) and what sold me was my safety in mind. She made me feel like I was in the best hands ever along with Marlene who coordinated everything THANK YOU LADIES! Dr Saber helped me get back the body I have always desired. I had a lot of stomach fat from weight gain and I lost weight so a lot of my weight was in my front lower and upper abdomen. Now I have a super beautiful curvy body like an hourglass after a tummy tuck and lipo she did. She understood the assignment hahaha . I’m 32 years old no kids just wanted to enjoy my younger body looking and feeling beautiful and she really took good care of me. Even after hours I had an emergency due to my fault but she was there and got back to me very quickly and I’m very grateful. I also think her work says a lot because I stopped taking pain medication on the 3rd day after surgery and was fine with very minimal pain I was able to tolerate the healing process. Highly recommend going with her I just had a wonderful experience and would do it all over again if I had too. Maybe after I have kids. Thanks Dr Saber and team <3

STEPHANIE d July 15, 2022

Dr.Saber is by far one of the best plastic surgeons. I love how she takes her time to explain any procedure to the patients understanding. She always makes sure to answers any and all questions.From fillers to body contours she’s the one you want.

Katherine Melara February 15, 2022

Dr Saber is amazing! She is caring and very informative. I went in for fillers and she explained procedure step by step. I highly recommend her and look forward to future visits.

Amanda Vazquez December 18, 2020

Dr. Saber was friendly, knowledgeable and professional. She took time to listen, answer all my questions and was forthright in her recommendations. Her staff was friendly and helpful. I was very happy with the results and plan on going back. If you are looking for a first rate professional experience look no further she is the doctor for you!

T R December 18, 2020

Dr. Saber is one of a kind plastic surgeon with a heart of gold. She is a well verse plastic surgeon that puts her patient's needs before anything else. She genuinely cares about every single patient, and her work speaks for itself. I notice every post-operative result on her Instagram (@saberplasticsurgery) the patients have this glow that radiates through. I have been going to Dr. Saber for my Botox for the past 3 years, and love the results every time. I know who I will be going to for any future plastic surgery needs, and will confidently refer family and friends to Dr. Saber for any Botox, fillers, and plastic surgery consultations.

Rudy Garcia December 16, 2020

I have nothing but great things to say about Dr. Saber! I am so pleased with my results from a breast augmentation she performed on me back in late June! She answered all my questions and concerns before and after my surgery. She’s very easy to get in contact with and she’s so nice. She made feel so comfortable throughout the whole process. 100/10 Lover her work!!

Amanda Villegas October 15, 2020

Dr Saber is hands down the best surgeon! She took her time answering my questions and explained procedure in detail. After doing liposuction six months ago, I am extremely happy with my results and I appreciate her so much.

Marlene Cosentino October 15, 2020

Dr. Saber is so kind and thorough with her patients! She is an amazing doctor and genuinely cars about everyone she comes in contact with. I would recommend her to anyone for any hand surgery or cosmetic procedure.

Rachel Meach October 15, 2020