Loose skin on the upper arms, often called “bingo wings” in the UK, is a common concern after weight loss or with age. Exercise can strengthen the muscles underneath, but it cannot shrink skin that has lost its elasticity. An arm lift, or brachioplasty, removes that excess skin surgically. Op. Dr. Mehmet Ali Korkmaz, a specialist in Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, assesses and treats patients for arm lift surgery in Antalya.
What is an arm lift?
An arm lift is an operation that removes excess skin, and usually some fat, from the underside of the upper arm to create a firmer, smoother contour. It is not a weight-loss procedure and does not change the muscles of the arm.
The skin on the back and inner side of the upper arm is thin and loosens easily. Ageing, genetics and repeated weight gain and loss all reduce its elasticity. Once the skin has stretched, it tends to hang between the armpit and the elbow, particularly when the arm is lifted. Brachioplasty tightens this area by removing an ellipse of skin and closing the wound in a carefully planned line.
Who is a good candidate for an arm lift?
The operation is most suitable for adults in good general health who have noticeable loose skin on the upper arms and a stable weight. The final decision is always made at a face-to-face medical examination.
Factors that usually support suitability:
- Loose or hanging skin on the upper arms that does not improve with exercise
- A weight that has been stable for at least 6–12 months
- No uncontrolled medical conditions such as poorly managed diabetes or heart disease
- Being a non-smoker, or willing to stop well before and after surgery
- Realistic expectations, including acceptance of a visible scar
If the skin is still firm and the problem is mainly fat, liposuction alone may be enough. If skin laxity is the main issue, liposuction on its own can make loose skin look worse, and an arm lift is the more appropriate option.
Which arm lift techniques are used?
The technique depends on how much loose skin there is and where it sits. Your surgeon will recommend an approach after examining your arms with them raised and relaxed.
| Technique | Typically used for | Scar position |
|---|---|---|
| Limited (short-scar) arm lift | Mild laxity close to the armpit | Mainly hidden in the armpit |
| Standard brachioplasty | Moderate to marked laxity from armpit to elbow | Along the inner upper arm |
| Extended brachioplasty | Laxity reaching onto the side of the chest, often after major weight loss | Inner arm, armpit and side of the chest |
| Arm lift with liposuction | Loose skin combined with excess fat | As above, plus small entry points |
In most cases, liposuction is used at the same time to refine the shape before the excess skin is removed.
How is an arm lift performed?
An arm lift is usually performed under general anaesthesia and generally takes between one and a half and three hours. Smaller, limited procedures may sometimes be done under local anaesthesia with sedation.
Before the operation, the planned incision lines are marked while you are standing with your arms raised. During surgery, the excess skin and fat are removed and the wound is closed in layers, with deeper sutures taking the tension so the skin edges heal as finely as possible. Small drains are occasionally placed for a short time. The arms are then dressed and supported with a compression garment.
Where will the arm lift scar be?
The scar normally runs along the inner side of the upper arm, from the armpit towards the elbow, and is positioned so that it is as discreet as possible when the arms are at your sides. In a limited arm lift, the scar may be confined to the armpit.
It is important to be clear about this point: brachioplasty always leaves a scar, and it remains visible when the arms are raised. Scars are typically red or pink for several months, then gradually flatten and fade over 12–18 months. Some people develop raised or widened scars despite careful technique. Our article on arm lift scars explains scar care in more detail.
What is recovery like after an arm lift?
Most people stay one night in hospital and can walk and manage light self-care the next day. Swelling and tightness are expected for several weeks.
| Time after surgery | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Days 1–3 | Tightness, swelling and moderate discomfort, controlled with prescribed pain relief; arms kept slightly raised on pillows |
| Week 1 | Wound check; short walks encouraged; avoid lifting your arms above shoulder height |
| Weeks 1–2 | Return to desk work for many people; stitches or dressings managed as advised |
| Weeks 4–6 | Compression garment worn day and night; avoid heavy lifting and strenuous arm exercise |
| From week 6 | Gradual return to sport once cleared |
| 6–12 months | Swelling settles and scars mature; final contour becomes clearer |
You can read a more detailed timeline in our guide to arm lift recovery.
How long do I need to stay in Turkey after an arm lift?
We usually recommend planning to stay in Antalya for around 7–10 days after an arm lift. This allows for your follow-up appointments and wound check before you travel.
Flying after surgery slightly increases the risk of blood clots. Before you fly home to the UK or elsewhere, you will be reviewed and advised on wearing compression stockings, drinking enough water and moving regularly during the flight. Carrying heavy luggage should be avoided, so plan for help at the airport. It is also sensible to arrange for your GP or practice nurse to be aware of your operation so that you have local support for aftercare when you are back home.
What are the risks of arm lift surgery?
Like any operation, an arm lift carries risks. Most are uncommon and manageable, but you should consider them carefully before deciding.
- Bleeding or a collection of blood (haematoma)
- Fluid collection (seroma)
- Infection
- Delayed wound healing or small areas of wound separation, particularly near the armpit
- Raised, widened or stretched scars
- Numbness or altered sensation on the inner arm or forearm due to irritation or injury of a skin nerve
- Asymmetry between the arms
- Prolonged swelling of the forearm or hand; rarely, lymphoedema
- Blood clots in the legs (deep vein thrombosis) or lungs
- Risks related to anaesthesia
- The possibility that a minor revision may be needed later
The likelihood of these risks is influenced by your health, your weight, whether you smoke and how closely you follow aftercare instructions. They will be discussed with you individually at your consultation.
How should I prepare for an arm lift?
Good preparation reduces avoidable risks. You will receive personal instructions, but the general points are:
- Keep your weight stable in the months before surgery.
- Stop smoking and nicotine products at least four weeks before and after the operation.
- Tell us about all medicines and supplements; some, such as blood thinners or certain herbal products, may need to be paused on medical advice.
- Bring loose, front-opening clothing for after surgery.
- Arrange for someone to accompany you, especially for the journey home.
Arm lift in Antalya with Op. Dr. Mehmet Ali Korkmaz
Op. Dr. Mehmet Ali Korkmaz graduated from Istanbul University Faculty of Medicine and completed his specialty training in Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery at Antalya Training and Research Hospital. His clinic is in Muratpaşa, Antalya, where consultations and follow-up appointments take place.
If you are considering an arm lift, the first step is an assessment of your arms, skin quality and general health. If you would like to share photos in advance or arrange a consultation, please get in touch with the clinic. Whether an arm lift is right for you can only be decided after a medical examination.
Frequently asked questions
Can an arm lift be combined with other operations?
Yes, an arm lift is sometimes combined with a tummy tuck, breast lift or liposuction, particularly after major weight loss. Combining operations lengthens the time under anaesthesia and can increase the risk of complications, so the decision depends on your general health, the extent of surgery planned and the assessment made at your consultation.
Will I be able to wash my hair and dress myself after surgery?
Most people manage light personal care within the first few days, although raising the arms above shoulder height is uncomfortable and should be limited early on. Loose, front-opening tops make dressing easier. Having someone with you for the first days in Antalya and the journey home is strongly advised.
Does an arm lift improve the muscles of the arm?
No. A brachioplasty removes excess skin and fat and tightens the skin envelope; it does not change the triceps or biceps muscles. Muscle tone depends on exercise. Once your surgeon has cleared you, usually after about six weeks, a gradual strength programme can help you make the most of the new contour.
Is an arm lift suitable for men?
Yes. Men can be affected by loose upper-arm skin, especially after significant weight loss, and the operation follows the same principles. The scar position is planned individually, taking into account hair distribution and arm shape. As with every patient, suitability is decided at a medical examination.
What happens if I gain weight after an arm lift?
Significant weight gain can stretch the skin again and reduce the improvement, while further major weight loss may cause new laxity. Aiming for a stable weight before surgery and maintaining it afterwards gives the most predictable outcome. Normal ageing will also continue to affect the skin over the years.
Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery · Medical Director, AYT Clinic
This page is for general information only and does not replace a medical consultation. Suitability, risks and expected results are assessed individually during an examination.