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Achieve Smoother, Tighter Upper Arms

An arm lift, also called brachioplasty, is a surgical procedure that reshapes the upper arms by removing excess skin and, when appropriate, addressing stubborn fat. You may consider an arm lift in Charleston, SC, if weight loss, aging, or genetics have left your arms with sagging or poor definition that does not improve with exercise. The goal is to restore youthful proportions and smooth contours while respecting your natural anatomy.

Arm Lift Overview

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What Does Arm Lift Treat?

An arm lift addresses common concerns that affect the shape and contour of the upper arms, particularly when these changes do not respond to diet or exercise. Treatment may address:

  • Loose, hanging upper arm skin
  • Excess skin after significant weight loss
  • Mild to moderate stubborn fat deposits
  • Crepey or thin-appearing skin texture
  • Poor upper arm definition or contour irregularities

Arm Lift Before & After

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Why Choose Dr. Jason Ulm for Arm Lift?

Dr. Jason Ulm is a double board-certified plastic surgeon with advanced fellowship training in aesthetic and craniofacial surgery. These credentials reflect years of rigorous surgical education and refinement, giving you access to a level of technical precision that matters greatly when shaping delicate areas like the upper arms.

You can expect a consultation that is deliberate and focused on truly understanding what you want to change and why. Dr. Ulm spends time reviewing your anatomy, discussing your goals in detail, and explaining what is realistically achievable.

Patients often note that their results reflect exactly what was discussed beforehand, even in challenging or revision cases. Dr. Ulm creates surgical plans that ensure results that feel natural and aligned with your goals.

Am I a Candidate for Arm Lift?

You may be a good candidate for an arm lift if you have loose or sagging upper arm skin, excess tissue after weight loss, or poor definition that does not improve with diet and exercise. During your consultation, Dr. Ulm evaluates your skin quality, anatomy, health, and aesthetic goals in detail. You will discuss your concerns, expectations, and medical history so he can determine whether brachioplasty in Charleston, SC, is appropriate for you.

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Benefits of Arm Lift

An arm lift offers both aesthetic and functional benefits for patients who are bothered by excess skin or poor upper arm contour. 

Potential advantages include:

  • A firmer, more defined upper arm shape
  • Removal of loose, hanging skin
  • Improved arm proportion relative to the body
  • Better fit and comfort in clothing
  • Long-lasting contour improvement with stable weight 

Words from Our Clients "It has taken me some time to find the words to describe Dr. Jason Ulm."

I cannot say enough amazing things about my breast reduction and brachioplasty with Dr. Ulm. From the very first consultation, I felt completely heard, respected, and cared for. Dr Ulm took the tim...

I cannot say enough amazing things about my breast reduction and brachioplasty with Dr. Ulm. From the very first consultation, I felt completely heard, respected, and cared for. Dr Ulm took the time to understand my goals, explain the procedures in detail, and set realistic expectations which gave me so much confidence going into surgery. Dr Ulm's precision, skill, and eye for aesthetics made all the difference , and I am so happy with the outcome.

The entire staff was also warm, professional, and supportive throughout the entire process - from pre-op to recovery. They made sure I felt safe and informed throughout the process. I would totally recommend Dr. Ulm for any plastic surgery.

This has been one of the best decisions i have ever made. Wish I had done it sooner.

Melanie

5 star rating

It has taken me some time to find the words to describe Dr. Jason Ulm. He is kind, compassionate, and incredibly talented. His super power is his unique ability to listen to your concerns and desir...

It has taken me some time to find the words to describe Dr. Jason Ulm. He is kind, compassionate, and incredibly talented. His super power is his unique ability to listen to your concerns and desires. He is skilled and perfectly delivers results that YOU want. I am amazed daily at how "perfect" my outcome is. I fully trusted him and allowed him to guide me through my process and I am so thankful I did. He nailed it and quite honestly gave me a restored confidence that I thought was unattainable. My prep, surgery, and recovery were all seamless and with very minimal pain. Dr.Ulm is hands down a master of his craft, and will always be my go to plastic surgeon!

Tabatha

5 star rating

I had lip fillers done by the doctor Jason Ulm and I loved the results! The shape is beautiful and natural, not fake or stiff at all. The doctor was very gentle and gave great advice. After the pro...

I had lip fillers done by the doctor Jason Ulm and I loved the results! The shape is beautiful and natural, not fake or stiff at all. The doctor was very gentle and gave great advice. After the procedure, my lips look fuller but still natural. I feel so much more confident!

Buddhawajana

5 star rating

Dr Ulm took the time listen and provide guidance on what to expect during and after surgery. He was recommended to me by a friend and I am so thankful to him for changing my life for the better! He...

Dr Ulm took the time listen and provide guidance on what to expect during and after surgery. He was recommended to me by a friend and I am so thankful to him for changing my life for the better! He provided me the confidence I was lacking without judgement.

Denise

5 star rating

My experience with Dr. Ulm and his staff was outstanding. Their communication was clear and supportive throughout the entire process, and the results exceeded my expectations. Truly professional, c...

My experience with Dr. Ulm and his staff was outstanding. Their communication was clear and supportive throughout the entire process, and the results exceeded my expectations. Truly professional, caring, and skilled!

Gina

5 star rating

I had the most amazing experience with Dr. Jason Ulm! He is an amazing surgeon, very professional and gave me exactly what I wanted! My breast augmentation went smoothly and my scars are almost gon...

I had the most amazing experience with Dr. Jason Ulm! He is an amazing surgeon, very professional and gave me exactly what I wanted! My breast augmentation went smoothly and my scars are almost gone after 2 months! Highly recommend!!!

Hailey

5 star rating

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Your Complete Arm Lift Experience

Arm Lift Surgery

Your arm lift is performed under anesthesia in an accredited surgical facility. Dr. Ulm first makes precisely placed incisions, most commonly along the inner or back portion of the upper arm, where they can be better concealed. Excess skin is carefully separated from the underlying tissue, and stubborn fat may be removed using liposuction to improve contour. The deeper supportive layer is then tightened to create a smoother, more stable foundation.

Next, the remaining skin is re-draped over the newly shaped arm and trimmed to eliminate laxity. Dr. Ulm closes the incisions in multiple layers to reduce tension and support better scar healing. You are placed in a compression garment to control swelling and protect the results.

Arm Lift Recovery

You can expect swelling, bruising, tightness, and mild to moderate soreness during the first 1 to 2 weeks after surgery. Drainage tubes may be placed temporarily and are removed within a few days. You must wear a compression garment continuously for the first few weeks. Most patients return to light activities within 7 to 10 days, but strenuous exercise and heavy lifting are usually restricted for 4 to 6 weeks. Your surgeon provides detailed follow-up visits to monitor healing.

Arm Lift Results

You may begin to notice early improvements in arm contour once initial swelling starts to subside, typically within the first few weeks. Your shape continues to refine over several months as your tissues settle and healing progresses. While natural aging continues, the improvements from an arm lift are long-lasting. By maintaining a stable weight and a healthy lifestyle, you can preserve your arm lift results for many years.

Possible Alternatives to Arm Lift

Not every patient requires surgical skin removal to improve upper arm contour. The degree of skin laxity, the quality of your skin, the distribution of fat, and your personal goals all influence which approach is most appropriate. In some cases, less invasive or complementary treatments may provide meaningful improvement, while others may be better suited for addressing related concerns in adjacent areas.

During your consultation, Dr. Ulm helps determine whether an alternative or combination approach could better match your anatomy and goals. Depending on your needs, options may include:

  • Liposuction for reducing localized fat when skin elasticity remains good
  • Body contouring devices for mild skin tightening without surgery
  • Thigh lift for patients addressing skin laxity in multiple areas after weight loss
  • Body lift for more extensive, circumferential skin excess following massive weight loss
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What Is the Cost of an Arm Lift?

Cost depends on a variety of factors, including the surgeon’s fee, anesthesia, facility charges, your anatomy, and your desired goals. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average surgeon’s fee for an arm lift in the U.S. is about $6,192, but the total cost, including anesthesia and facility fees, is often higher.

Because pricing varies widely based on location, complexity, and whether additional procedures are included, a consultation with Dr. Ulm is the best way to get an accurate, personalized quote that reflects your specific surgical plan.

Arm Lift Frequently Asked Questions

Will my arm lift scars be noticeable?

Incisions are placed along the inner or back portion of the upper arm, where they can be better concealed. Scars fade gradually over time, but they are permanent. Dr. Ulm uses meticulous closure techniques and provides detailed scar-care guidance to support optimal healing.

How long does an arm lift take to perform?

Most arm lift procedures take 2 to 3 hours, depending on the amount of skin removal and whether liposuction is added. Your exact surgical time is discussed during your consultation.

Can liposuction be combined with an arm lift?

Yes. Liposuction is often used to refine stubborn fat before excess skin is removed. Combining techniques can improve overall contour when both fat and skin laxity are present.

What are the risks associated with an arm lift?

As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks, including bleeding, infection, fluid accumulation, delayed wound healing, noticeable scarring, or contour irregularities. During your consultation, Dr. Ulm explains these possibilities in clear terms, discusses how they relate to your individual health and anatomy, and takes all possible measures to mitigate risks.

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