Body
Overview
About Arm Lift
An arm lift (brachioplasty) reshapes the upper arm by removing excess skin and fat and smoothing the underlying tissue, reducing the appearance of sagging or 'bat wings'.
It's commonly chosen after weight loss or with the natural effects of aging, restoring firmer contours from elbow to shoulder.
✚ Medically reviewed by Dr. Helena Guarda, MD — Diplomate, American Board of Plastic Surgery. Last reviewed August 2026.
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Procedure Time
1–3 hours
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Anesthesia
General or IV sedation
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Initial Recovery
1–2 weeks
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Results
Long-lasting
Every plan is individualized — the details above are typical ranges and are confirmed during your consultation.
Why Patients Choose It
Benefits at a glance
- ✓Firmer, smoother upper arms
- ✓Removes excess, loose skin
- ✓Improved arm definition
- ✓Confidence in sleeveless styles
Is It Right for You?
Are you a good candidate?
You may be a good candidate for arm lift if some of the following apply. The best way to know is a personal consultation with Dr. Guarda.
- ✓You are in good general health
- ✓You have realistic goals and expectations
- ✓You are at or near a stable weight
- ✓You are a non-smoker, or can pause before and after surgery
- ✓You have concerns that persist despite diet and exercise
- ✓You want a natural-looking, lasting improvement
What to Expect
Your journey, step by step
1
Consultation
Meet with Dr. Guarda to share your goals, review your health history, and design a plan tailored to you.
2
Preparation
Receive clear pre-operative instructions — and any needed lab work — so you feel fully prepared for the day of surgery.
3
Procedure
Your procedure is performed with meticulous care in an accredited surgical setting, prioritizing safety and natural results.
4
Recovery & Results
Follow a guided recovery with scheduled follow-ups as your final results gradually take shape.
Recovery
Recovery timeline
A general guide to what recovery looks like. Dr. Guarda provides a personalized timeline based on your body and your plan.
First 24–48 hours
Rest at home with support nearby. Some swelling, bruising, and tenderness are normal and managed with prescribed medication.
First 1–2 weeks
Most patients return to desk work and light activity. Follow-up visits confirm you're healing well; avoid strenuous movement and heavy lifting.
Weeks 2–6
Gradually resume exercise as Dr. Guarda clears you. Swelling continues to subside and your new contour becomes more defined.
3+ months
Final results settle as tissues fully heal and any scars continue to soften and fade.
Preparation
How to prepare
- ✓Complete a thorough consultation and any required lab work or medical clearance
- ✓Stop smoking well before and after surgery to support healing
- ✓Avoid blood-thinning medications and supplements as directed by Dr. Guarda
- ✓Arrange a ride home and help at home for the first few days
- ✓Fill prescriptions and set up a comfortable recovery space in advance
Safety
Risks & safety
As with any surgery, arm lift carries some risks — which may include bleeding, infection, changes in sensation, scarring, and reactions to anesthesia. Choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon operating in an accredited facility significantly lowers these risks. Dr. Guarda reviews your complete medical history and discusses every risk — and how it is minimized — during your consultation, so you can make a fully informed decision.
Results
Results & longevity
Results from arm lift are designed to look natural and last. While aging, pregnancy, and major weight changes can affect your outcome over time, maintaining a stable weight and healthy lifestyle helps preserve your results for many years.
Questions & Answers
Arm Lift FAQs
Answers to questions patients ask most. Have another? We're glad to help.
How long is recovery after a arm lift?
Most patients take about one to two weeks off from work and daily routines, resuming strenuous exercise gradually over several weeks. Dr. Guarda gives you a personalized recovery timeline at your consultation.
Will there be scars?
Dr. Guarda uses careful techniques to place incisions discreetly and keep scarring to a minimum. Most scars fade significantly over time, and you'll receive detailed scar-care guidance.
When will I see my final results?
You'll notice a change right away, with final results emerging over the following weeks to months as swelling resolves and tissues settle into place.
Is the procedure safe?
Your safety is the top priority. Dr. Guarda is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, and procedures are performed in accredited facilities with careful screening and monitoring.
How do I get started with arm lift?
The first step is a personal consultation with Dr. Guarda, where you'll discuss your goals, review your health, and receive a customized plan. Call (757) 483-6550 or request an appointment online.
Local Care
Arm Lift in Suffolk & Hampton Roads
Dr. Helena Guarda proudly serves patients across Suffolk, Chesapeake, Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Portsmouth, and the greater Hampton Roads area of Virginia. Our practice is located at 5131 River Club Drive, Suite 110, Suffolk, VA 23435 — convenient to coastal Virginia communities seeking arm lift with an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon.
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Considering Arm Lift?
Your individual consultation with Dr. Guarda awaits. Call or send a message with any questions you may have.