Opening July 2026
Give Madison Plastic Surgery a phone call at (608) 736-8606 Contact Us

Smoother, More Defined Arms That Match the Rest of You

Loose upper arm skin can be frustrating, especially when it doesn’t respond to strength training or healthy lifestyle changes. Whether it’s due to weight loss, aging, or genetics, excess skin can make arms look less defined and feel uncomfortable in fitted clothing. An arm lift, also called brachioplasty, removes excess skin and improves contour for a more streamlined shape. 

At Madison Plastic Surgery, our plastic surgeons bring big-city aesthetic training and a refinement-focused approach to body contouring, paired with concierge-level care in a private, welcoming setting. Schedule a consultation to explore an arm lift in Madison and discover how a personalized surgical plan can help you achieve your goals.

What Is an Arm Lift?

An arm lift is a cosmetic procedure that removes excess skin and, when appropriate, small amounts of fat from the upper arms to create a smoother, firmer contour. The goal is to refine the shape of the upper arm and reduce the “hanging” or loose skin that may appear along the underside of the arms.

Many patients pursue an arm lift after significant weight loss, but loose skin can also develop naturally with aging. While exercise can improve muscle tone, it cannot tighten stretched skin. At Madison Plastic Surgery, arm lift planning is centered on proportion and natural refinement, so your arms look more defined without appearing overcorrected.

Benefits of an Arm Lift

An arm lift can make everyday comfort and confidence feel much easier—especially when clothing and movement no longer feel restricted by loose skin. Arm lift surgery in Madison may offer benefits such as:

  • A smoother, more contoured upper arm shape
  • Reduced loose or hanging skin along the underside of the arms
  • Improved definition that better reflects your fitness and weight loss efforts
  • Better comfort in sleeveless clothing and fitted sleeves
  • Reduced irritation or rubbing for some patients
  • A more balanced silhouette from shoulder to waist
  • Results that look natural and feel aligned with your body
Banner media

Schedule a Consultation

Contact Us
Contact us media

Arm Lift Options

Arm lift techniques can be customized depending on how much excess skin you have, where it is concentrated, and whether additional fat reduction is needed. Your surgeon will recommend an approach that supports your anatomy and goals. Your consultation will determine which approach is best for achieving a natural-looking contour and clean, balanced shape.

Traditional Arm Lift

A traditional arm lift removes excess skin along the underside of the upper arm, typically extending from the armpit toward the elbow. This option is often best for patients with moderate to significant skin laxity.

Limited (Mini) Arm Lift

A limited arm lift focuses on excess skin closer to the armpit. It can be a good fit for patients with mild looseness who want a smaller incision and a more subtle refinement.

Arm Lift With Liposuction

Some patients benefit from combining liposuction with an arm lift to improve contour and smooth transitions. Liposuction can reduce fullness, while the lift addresses loose skin for a more refined result.

Your Consultation

Your arm lift consultation is designed to feel straightforward, informative, and fully personalized. At Madison Plastic Surgery, we’ll talk through your concerns, what you’ve noticed about your arms over time, and the level of refinement you want to achieve.

Your surgeon will evaluate skin elasticity, the location of excess tissue, and your overall proportions, then explain what brachioplasty can realistically accomplish. You’ll also discuss incision placement, scarring expectations, and whether liposuction or other contouring procedures may enhance your overall result.

The goal is for you to feel confident in the plan—and comfortable with every step along the way. 

Texture media

Client Testimonials “The only practice that truly understands what I want.”

Dr. Luvisa is absolutely the best! I’ve been going to him for Botox for years, and he’s the only person I trust with my face. He always gives me a refreshed look and...

Dr. Luvisa is absolutely the best! I’ve been going to him for Botox for years, and he’s the only person I trust with my face. He always gives me a refreshed look and never overdoes it. He’s incredibly skilled and keeps me looking natural and balanced. I recommend him to everyone and even send my family members to him. I couldn’t be happier with my results every time!

-Karie V.

Dr. Wirth has administered Botox and lip filler to me multiple times, and has far exceeded my expectations. His precision and attention to detail is excellent, and I would recom...

Dr. Wirth has administered Botox and lip filler to me multiple times, and has far exceeded my expectations. His precision and attention to detail is excellent, and I would recommend him to anyone who is looking for facial rejuvenation.

-Linda I.

Dr. Luvisa is a talented plastic surgeon, with extensive experience and passion for his craft. He thoroughly answers questions as he explains procedures so the lay person can un...

Dr. Luvisa is a talented plastic surgeon, with extensive experience and passion for his craft. He thoroughly answers questions as he explains procedures so the lay person can understand. His good nature and calm presence are reassuring during procedures, while his attention to detail and eye for aesthetics, result in great outcomes.  I’ve been so pleased with my experiences and results with Dr. Luvisa injecting Botox and fillers. I have every confidence in his skills and would definitely consider other procedures.

-Katy L.

Dr. Wirth is incredibly skilled and detail-oriented—I’ve had multiple Botox and filler treatments with him, and the results are always natural, balanced, and exactly...

Dr. Wirth is incredibly skilled and detail-oriented—I’ve had multiple Botox and filler treatments with him, and the results are always natural, balanced, and exactly what I was hoping for. He always takes time to listen, explain everything, and overall makes the entire experience comfortable and confidence-boosting

-Zoe B.

Dr Luvisa is seriously an artist. He took so much time with me, answered all my questions, and made sure we were 100% aligned before starting. I never felt rushed. The results a...

Dr Luvisa is seriously an artist. He took so much time with me, answered all my questions, and made sure we were 100% aligned before starting. I never felt rushed. The results are flawless — soft, natural, and exactly what I wanted. I always go and say I want the Dr Luvisa effect.

-Brenda G.

I’ve been getting Botox from Dr. Luvisa for several years now, and I’ve been thrilled with my results every single time. He’s meticulous, thoughtful, and reall...

I’ve been getting Botox from Dr. Luvisa for several years now, and I’ve been thrilled with my results every single time. He’s meticulous, thoughtful, and really understands facial aesthetics. Everything always looks natural and subtle—exactly what I want. He’s also just a great person, with a bubbly personality, which makes the whole experience even better. 

-Kyle K.
Read More Reviews

What to Expect During Your Arm Lift Procedure

An arm lift is typically performed as an outpatient procedure under anesthesia. On the day of surgery, your surgeon will follow a customized plan to remove excess skin and refine the upper arm contour with careful attention to symmetry and proportion. If liposuction is included, excess fat is gently removed first to improve shaping and smooth transitions. 

The remaining skin is then repositioned to create a firmer, more streamlined arm profile. Incisions are closed with meticulous technique, and your arms are supported during early healing to promote smooth recovery and refined, natural-looking results. 

Recovery After an Arm Lift

Recovery after an arm lift in Madison varies based on the extent of correction and whether liposuction is included. Most patients experience swelling, bruising, and soreness during the first one to two weeks, with gradual improvement after that.

You may be advised to wear a compression garment to reduce swelling and support the new contour. Many patients return to light activity within about a week, though lifting, vigorous exercise, and repetitive arm motion are typically limited for several weeks. 

As swelling resolves, your results become more defined and refined over the following months. Our team will provide detailed aftercare guidance and follow-up support so you feel confident throughout healing.

Banner media

Arm Lift Alternatives

An arm lift is the most effective way to remove loose upper arm skin, but there are alternatives depending on your goals and anatomy. Your consultation will help determine which approach best aligns with your body, your goals, and the level of improvement you’re looking for. 

Liposuction

If the main concern is excess fat without significant loose skin, liposuction may improve contour. However, liposuction alone does not tighten stretched skin.

Non-Surgical Skin Tightening

Some non-surgical treatments may offer mild improvement in skin firmness, but they cannot remove excess skin or provide the degree of contour change achieved with surgery.

Strength Training and Lifestyle Changes

Exercise can improve muscle tone and definition, but it cannot correct loose skin caused by aging or weight loss.

How Much Does an Arm Lift Cost? 

The cost of an arm lift in Madison varies depending on the extent of skin removal, whether liposuction is included, anesthesia, facility fees, and your overall surgical plan. Because brachioplasty is highly personalized, pricing is best discussed after your consultation, once your surgeon has evaluated your anatomy and confirmed the most effective approach. At Madison Plastic Surgery, we believe in transparent recommendations and clear expectations so you feel informed and confident moving forward.

Doctor media

Why Choose Madison Plastic Surgery?

Madison Plastic Surgery is a boutique, 100% cosmetic practice built for patients who want refined results in a setting that feels private, welcoming, and supportive. Our plastic surgeons bring advanced training from top coastal programs and a big-city approach to body contouring, emphasizing proportion, smooth transitions, and natural refinement. With a fully accredited office-based surgery center and concierge-level care, your arm lift experience is designed to feel streamlined, discreet, and personalized from consultation through recovery. 

Reach out to Madison Plastic Surgery to schedule your arm lift consultation and take the next step toward feeling more confident in sleeveless styles.

Frequently Asked Questions Arm Lift

How long do arm lift results last?

Arm lift results are long-lasting, especially when you maintain a stable weight and a healthy lifestyle. Natural aging will continue, but most patients enjoy their improved contour for many years.

Will I have visible scars after an arm lift?

Yes, an arm lift involves an incision, typically along the underside of the arm. Your surgeon will place incisions as discreetly as possible and provide guidance on scar care to support fading over time.

Can an arm lift be combined with other procedures?

Yes. An arm lift is often combined with procedures such as liposuction or other body contouring treatments, especially after weight loss. Combining procedures can create a more comprehensive, balanced result.

When can I return to exercise after brachioplasty?

Most patients return to light movement within about a week, but upper-body workouts and heavy lifting are usually paused for several weeks. Your surgeon will provide a timeline based on your recovery progress.

Will an arm lift make my arms look unnatural or too tight?

The goal is refined, natural contour—not an overcorrected appearance. At Madison Plastic Surgery, careful planning and precise technique help create results that look balanced and fit your proportions.

Contact us media
Opening July 2026

Schedule a Consultation

Contact Us
Accessibility: If you are vision-impaired or have some other impairment covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act or a similar law, and you wish to discuss potential accommodations related to using this website, please contact our Accessibility Manager at (608) 736-8606.
Contact Us