Brachioplasty or arm lift surgery is a surgical procedure that reshapes and contours the upper arms. It can remove excess skin or fat and eliminate sagging in the arm area caused by aging or weight loss.
If you are self-conscious about excess arm skin and fat, especially when going sleeveless, you may consider getting a brachioplasty to improve your arm contour.1
Here’s everything you need to know about brachioplasty costs, payment options, and more.
What Is the Average Brachioplasty Cost?
According to recent reports from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average brachioplasty cost is $4,861. However, this estimate depends on several factors.2
Factors That Affect Brachioplasty Cost
The following factors can affect the cost of arm lift surgery:3
- The plastic surgeon’s expertise, experience, and fees
- Geographic location
- Choice of the surgical facility, such as a hospital or an outpatient clinic, and the associated fees
- The extent of surgery and the need for additional procedures
- Anesthesia costs
- Preoperative tests, post-surgery garments, prescription medications, postoperative care, and follow-up visits
Is Brachioplasty Covered by Insurance?
In most cases, brachioplasty is a cosmetic surgery and is not covered by insurance. Insurance providers consider it elective unless you have a medical necessity. Check with your insurance provider to understand their coverage policies.4
What Are Some Ways to Pay for Brachioplasty?
You can opt for the following ways to finance your arm lift surgery:5
- Pay for the procedure using your savings or personal funds.
- Check for financing plans offered by hospitals or clinics to make the payment in installments.
- Take out a medical or personal loan for the procedure.
- Use a personal credit card to pay for the surgery.
- Borrow funds from your friends or family.
What Can You Expect During Brachioplasty?
During a brachioplasty, the surgeon administers anesthesia to ensure comfort. The surgeon makes incisions along the inside or back of the arm, removing excess skin and fat and repositioning underlying tissues for improved arm contour. They may perform liposuction to remove additional fat deposits and suture the skin for a sculpted appearance. After the procedure, you’ll be monitored and given postoperative care.6
Is Brachioplasty Right for You?
The decision to undergo brachioplasty depends on personal preferences and goals. If excess arm skin and fat trouble you and don’t improve with diet and exercise, brachioplasty can enhance your arm contour and self-confidence. However, you must have realistic expectations and understand the risks of the surgery. Consult a qualified plastic surgeon to determine if the procedure aligns with your goals.7
What Is the Brachioplasty Recovery Time?
Brachioplasty recovery time can range from two to six weeks and will vary based on your condition and the extent of the surgery. You may experience swelling, bruising, scarring, and discomfort at the surgical site. Your surgeon may provide aftercare instructions to use compression garments and pain medication to ease the symptoms. You’ll also have follow-up appointments to monitor recovery.8
Does Arm Lift Surgery Leave a Scar?
Brachioplasty incisions can result in permanent scars. Scars tend to fade and become less noticeable over time. However, your surgeon can provide advice on scar management.9
Explore My Body Treatment’s Vast Wealth of Knowledge
A qualified plastic surgeon can help you address your concerns about brachioplasty and its estimated cost. For more information on body treatments and plastic surgery, visit My Body Treatment.
SOURCES:
- Cleveland Clinic: “Brachioplasty (Arm Lift).“
- American Society of Plastic Surgeons: “How much does an arm lift cost?“
- American Society of Plastic Surgeons: “How much does an arm lift cost?“
- Cleveland Clinic: “Brachioplasty (Arm Lift).“
- Union Credit: “How to Finance Cosmetic Surgery.“
- Cleveland Clinic: “Brachioplasty (Arm Lift).“
- Cleveland Clinic: “Brachioplasty (Arm Lift).“
- Healthline: “Is Arm Lift Right for You?“
- Healthline: “Is Arm Lift Right for You?“