Arm Lift: Jump to Section

Micallef Plastic Surgery: Elevating Your Confidence, Inside and Out

Led by Dr. Christopher J. Micallef, who is double-board-certified and has honed his expertise through years of experience in Special Operations medicine, our practice combines artistry, rigorous safety measures, and compassionate concierge care.

We offer brachioplasty in San Antonio as a transformative journey that enhances your appearance and revitalizes how you feel in your own skin.

What Is an Arm Lift (Brachioplasty)?

An arm lift is a surgical procedure that redefines the upper arms by removing excess skin and fat while tightening underlying tissues. The goal is to create a smoother, more contoured silhouette from shoulder to elbow.

This procedure is especially helpful for individuals with:

  • Sagging or “bat wing” skin caused by significant weight changes
  • Natural skin laxity due to aging
  • Genetic predisposition to loose arm tissue
  • Concerns unresponsive to diet and exercise

During your arm lift in San Antonio, Dr. Micallef may use a combination of techniques:

  • Excision: Removing stretched or excess skin.
  • Tissue Tightening: Reshaping supportive structures for improved firmness.
  • Liposuction (when needed): Removing stubborn fat deposits for better contour.

Together, these steps restore firmer, more defined arms that balance aesthetics with physical comfort.

Arm Lift Benefits

  • Eliminates loose, sagging skin
  • Improves arm shape and muscle definition
  • Provides long-lasting results with stable weight maintenance
  • Enhances self-confidence and freedom to wear sleeveless styles comfortably

Are You a Good Candidate?

You may be an ideal candidate for an arm lift if you:

  • Struggle with loose upper-arm skin that doesn’t respond to exercise
  • Have maintained a stable weight for some time
  • Are in good overall health, with no significant healing-risk conditions, and are not a smoker
  • Are prepared to accept visible scarring along the arm in exchange for improved shape and tone

Consultation & Cost

  • Initial Consultation: Your journey begins with a private, one-on-one meeting, during which Dr. Micallef reviews your health history, listens to your goals, and evaluates whether brachioplasty is the right choice for you.
  • Personalized Planning: Together, we’ll design a treatment plan tailored to your unique anatomy and desired results, ensuring every detail reflects both safety and artistry.
  • Transparent Estimate: Before moving forward, you’ll receive a clear, individualized cost breakdown that reflects the scope of your procedure, financing options, and the concierge level of care that defines our practice.

The Procedure Experience

  • Before Arm Lift Surgery: Medically clearanced, detailed briefing, and pre-operative guidance on incision placement and recovery items like compression garments.
  • Day Of: Performed under general anesthesia in our surgical suite. Incisions are typically placed along the inner or back of the arm; liposuction may be added as needed.
  • Immediately After: Arms are bandaged, compression garments applied, and fluid drains are placed if necessary. Rest, pain comfort, and wound care begin at home under our guidance.

Subtypes of Arm Lift

  • Mini (Limited-Incision) Brachioplasty: Best for mild sagging near the armpit; shorter, less visible incision.
  • Standard (Traditional) Brachioplasty: Removes excess skin from armpit to elbow for moderate laxity.
  • Extended Brachioplasty: Addresses sagging skin that extends onto the chest wall; involves longer incision for comprehensive contouring.
  • Liposuction-Assisted Brachioplasty: Enhances definition by removing localized fat along with skin tightening when elasticity is present.

Recovery & Results Timeline

During the first week after an arm lift, patients can expect swelling, bruising, and some discomfort, with limited arm movement while wearing compression garments. By weeks two to three, bruising begins to fade, mobility improves, and scar care methods such as silicone treatments may be introduced. Between weeks four and six, most swelling has resolved, compression garments are typically no longer needed, and light exercise can gradually resume. By two to three months, scars continue to soften and fade, full range of motion is restored, and the final, smoother arm contour becomes more apparent.

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Why Choose Micallef Plastic Surgery?

At Micallef Plastic Surgery, brachioplasty is guided by artistry, precision, and compassion. Dr. Christopher J. Micallef, a double-board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon, combines advanced training with over 15 years of service as a Special Operations physician in the United States Air Force. His military discipline and surgical expertise ensure refined results and the highest standards of safety.

Our approach goes beyond surgery, offering personalized support from consultation through recovery. With holistic wellness care, transparent financing, and concierge-level service, every step of the journey is designed to restore balance, confidence, and peace of mind.

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Arm Lift FAQs

How long do the results of an arm lift last?

Will I have visible scars after an arm lift?

How soon can I drive after arm lift surgery?

Will an arm lift improve muscle definition?

How long do the results of an arm lift last?

Results are typically long-lasting if you maintain a stable weight and a healthy lifestyle. While natural aging will continue, most patients enjoy firmer, smoother arm contours for many years.

Will I have visible scars after an arm lift?

Yes. Brachioplasty requires incisions, usually along the inner arm or back of the arm. While scars fade over time, their visibility depends on your healing response. Dr. Micallef carefully plans incision placement for discreet results.

How soon can I drive after arm lift surgery?

You should avoid driving until you stop taking prescription pain medication and have full arm mobility. For most patients, this is about 1–2 weeks after surgery.

Will an arm lift improve muscle definition?

An arm lift does not directly affect muscles, but removing excess skin and fat can highlight your natural muscle tone and create a more sculpted appearance.

Ready to Learn More About an Arm Lift in San Antonio?

At Micallef Plastic Surgery, we craft results that honor your individuality while restoring balance and refinement. Schedule your consultation today and take the first step toward achieving your aesthetic goals.

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