The main risks of an arm lift are a long visible scar on the inner arm, fluid collections (seroma), wound healing problems particularly near the armpit, numbness or altered sensation in the forearm, asymmetry and small puckers at the ends of the scar. General surgical risks include bleeding, infection, blood clots and anaesthetic complications. Most can be reduced with careful planning, a stable weight, stopping smoking and following aftercare advice.
General surgical risks
- Bleeding: a collection of blood (haematoma) under the skin, usually in the first day or two, which may need drainage.
- Infection: redness, warmth, discharge or fever; usually treated with antibiotics, occasionally with wound care or surgery.
- Blood clots: deep vein thrombosis or a clot on the lung; reduced by early walking, hydration and appropriate preventive measures.
- Anaesthetic: an arm lift is usually performed under general anaesthetic, which carries small risks your anaesthetist will discuss.
The scar
An arm lift trades loose skin for a scar. In a full brachioplasty, the scar runs along the inner or back of the inner arm from the armpit towards the elbow; shorter lifts keep it closer to the armpit. The scar is visible when the arms are raised or in sleeveless clothing. Most scars fade and flatten over 12 to 18 months, but some become widened, raised or darker, particularly in people prone to thickened scars. Scar position and length are planned together at consultation.
Seroma and lymphatic changes
Fluid can collect under the skin along the arm after surgery. Small seromas may resolve on their own; larger ones may need draining with a needle in clinic, sometimes more than once. Lymphatic vessels run along the inner arm, and disrupting them can cause prolonged swelling of the forearm or hand. Careful surgical technique that preserves deeper tissues helps reduce this risk. Persistent swelling is uncommon, but should be reported to the team.
Wound healing problems
Arm lift wounds are under tension, particularly where the scar crosses the armpit. Small areas of separation, delayed healing or minor wound breakdown are among the more common issues and usually heal with dressings over a few weeks. Smoking, diabetes, raising the arms too early and heavy lifting increase this risk. Read our guide on smoking and cosmetic surgery to understand why nicotine must be stopped.
Nerve changes and other specific risks
- Numbness: a sensory nerve runs close to the inner arm; numbness or tingling on the inner arm or forearm is common and usually improves, but can occasionally be long lasting.
- Asymmetry: small differences between the arms are normal and may remain.
- Dog ears: small puckers of skin at the ends of the scar may settle or need minor revision.
- Residual looseness: some laxity may remain, particularly after very large weight loss.
- Contour irregularity: especially if liposuction is combined.
How risks are reduced
Mr Nassab assesses your skin quality, weight history and general health, and plans the scar and extent of surgery to suit your arms. Being at a stable weight, stopping nicotine, keeping long-term conditions well controlled and attending all follow-ups reduce complications. Surgery is carried out in CQC-registered hospitals with a consultant anaesthetist. After surgery, compression sleeves, avoiding reaching overhead and heavy lifting, and walking regularly all help. Our arm lift recovery guide explains the aftercare in detail.
What is normal and when to call
Tightness, bruising, swelling, numbness and a firm, raised scar are expected in the early weeks. Contact the team urgently if one arm swells rapidly or becomes very tense. Contact them the same day for fever, spreading redness, discharge or a wound that opens. See your GP or call NHS 111 the same day for calf pain or one-sided leg swelling, and call 999 for chest pain or breathlessness. An arm lift costs from £11,500 and the £150 consultation is separate. Cosmetic surgery is for adults aged 18 and over.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an arm lift a safe operation?
It is a well-established procedure. As with any surgery, there are risks, which are reduced by careful selection, technique and aftercare.
Will the arm lift scar be visible?
Yes, when the arms are raised or in sleeveless clothing. Most scars fade and flatten over 12 to 18 months.
Is numbness after an arm lift permanent?
Numbness usually improves over months as nerves recover, but some altered sensation can persist in a minority of patients.
What is a seroma?
A collection of clear fluid under the skin. It may settle on its own or need draining in clinic.
Does weight loss surgery history increase risks?
Patients who have lost a lot of weight may have poorer skin quality and nutritional factors to optimise, which Mr Nassab will assess.
