Brachioplasty Melbourne (Arm Lift)

Excess skin and soft tissue on the upper arms can develop as a result of ageing, weight changes, or inherited characteristics. These changes may affect the overall appearance of the upper arms and are not always responsive to exercise or strength-focused activities.

For those considering a surgical option to address these concerns, brachioplasty (arm lift surgery) may assist in reshaping the upper arms by removing excess skin and tissue.

Dr Gary Kode, a Specialist Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon based in Melbourne, , is dedicated to providing personalised surgical care. With a focus on thoughtful, proportionate outcomes, Dr Kode works closely with each patient to develop a surgical plan that reflects their individual concerns and goals.

What is a Brachioplasty/Arm Lift?

Brachioplasty, also known as an arm lift, is a surgical procedure designed to address concerns related to excess skin and tissue in the upper arms. This procedure may involve several steps, including:

• Removal of Excess Skin: Skin that has lost firmness and hangs from the upper arm may be surgically removed to alter their appearance.
• Reduction of Localised Fat Deposits: Where appropriate, liposuction techniques such as Microaire-assisted liposuction may be used to assist in reducing localised fat before skin excision.
• Reshaping of Underlying Structures: The supporting tissues beneath the skin can be repositioned and secured to support longer-lasting changes in the shape of the upper arm.
• Arm Shape: By addressing both the deeper tissues and surface layers, the procedure aims to refine the appearance of the upper arms in line with the individual’s surgical goals.

Suitable Candidates for Brachioplasty:

Brachioplasty may be considered by individuals who have concerns related to excess skin or tissue in the upper arms. This procedure may be suitable for those who:

• Have significant skin laxity in the upper arms due to factors such as weight changes or ageing.
• Experience discomfort from excess skin, including chafing or difficulty with certain clothing styles.
• Are at a stable weight and are not planning major weight changes.
• Do not smoke or are willing to stop smoking before and after surgery, as this can affect healing.
• Have realistic expectations regarding outcomes, recovery, and potential risks.
• Are medically assessed as suitable for surgery after a thorough consultation.

During your consultation, Dr Gary Kode will review your medical history, examine the area of concern, and discuss whether brachioplasty aligns with your personal circumstances and surgical goals.

Why Consider a Brachioplasty Arm Lift in Melbourne?

Many individuals seek options to address concerns related to excess skin and soft tissue on the upper arms. Some of the reasons individuals consider a brachioplasty procedure include:

• Physical discomfort: Excess skin may cause rubbing, irritation, or rashes, and in some cases can lead to a sense of heaviness in the arms, potentially affecting daily activities.
• Appearance-related concerns: Lax skin can affect how some people feel in certain clothing styles, such as short sleeves or swimwear, even when they are otherwise physically active.
• Mobility limitations: In situations where excess tissue is more prominent, some individuals may notice a restriction in their range of arm movement, which can affect certain tasks or recreational activities.
• Seeking proportional balance: After significant weight changes or following specific procedures such as bariatric surgery, some people seek to address excess tissue in the arms to achieve a more balanced appearance in relation to their torso and lower body.

During your consultation, Dr Kode will discuss your individual goals, medical history, and whether brachioplasty may be a suitable option for you.

Dr. Gary Kode’s Personalised Approach to Brachioplasty

Dr. Gary Kode, a trusted Specialist Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon, takes a deeply personal approach to every arm lift surgery he performs.

Key features of his patient care philosophy include:

• Direct surgeon involvement: From the very first consultation through to surgery and follow-up, patients interact directly with Dr. Kode. There are no substitutes or handovers to assistants during critical stages of care.
• Individualised surgical planning: Every procedure is designed based on a detailed evaluation of the patient’s anatomy, lifestyle needs, and aesthetic goals. No two surgeries are the same.
• Open, informative consultations: Dr. Kode believes patients deserve a clear understanding of all aspects of the procedure, including potential risks, recovery times, and variability in outcomes, before committing to surgery.
• Respect for patient autonomy: Rather than pushing for surgery, Dr. Kode supports patients in making decisions at their own pace, grounded in education and realistic expectations.

This thorough, honest approach makes sure that every patient feels heard, respected and cared for throughout their brachioplasty journey in Melbourne.

The Brachioplasty/Arm Lift Procedure: What to Expect

The surgical journey for a brachioplasty/arm lift with Dr. Gary Kode typically involves several carefully coordinated stages:

• Preoperative marking: Prior to surgery, Dr. Kode carefully maps the incision lines along the inner arms, considering body creases and shapes to reduce their visibility. Special attention is paid to arm movement patterns to optimise functional results.
• Fat reduction with Microaire-assisted liposuction (if needed): In patients with excess fatty tissue contributing to arm volume, a powered liposuction system may be used to remove fat deposits. This can help provide a more comprehensive result.
• Excision of redundant skin: Skin laxity is assessed and redundant skin is removed carefully, balancing the need for tightening with the goal of keeping scars as discreet as possible.
• Tissue tightening and shaping: Deep structural layers, such as the supportive fascia, are repositioned and tightened to maintain altered arm shape over the long term, not just immediately post-surgery.
• Closure and dressing: Wounds are strategically closed, often in multiple layers to support optimal healing. Drains are not usually required. Sterile dressings are applied.
• Surgical environment: All surgeries are performed at fully accredited hospitals in Melbourne, this makes sure patients receive the highest standards of safety and patient care.

Recovery After Arm Lift Surgery

The recovery process following a Brachioplasty/Arm Lift is a key phase of the journey toward achieving optimal results. Dr. Gary Kode provides clear postoperative instructions to support each patient’s healing.

Key aspects of recovery include:

• Support garment use: Patients wear a specifically fitted support garment day and night for approximately four weeks to help control swelling, support the new arm shape, and protect incisions during early healing. After the first month, garments are worn during the daytime for an additional two months.
• Wound care protocols: Dressings are kept in place as instructed, and Hypafix tape is often used to support incision sites unless contraindicated. Patients are given guidelines for wound hygiene and observation.
• Activity restrictions and guidance: While your surgeon will recommend light walking to promote circulation, patients must avoid lifting heavy objects, strenuous exercise, and overhead arm movements for at least four to six weeks. Specific timelines are personalised based on individual healing progress.
• Postoperative appointments: Follow-up visits are scheduled to allow Dr. Kode to monitor recovery closely, address any concerns and advise on the transition back to daily activities.

Most patients are able to resume work and non-physical tasks within 2 to 3 weeks, although full activity including vigorous exercise may require up to 8 weeks depending on individual recovery patterns.

Risks and Considerations of Brachioplasty

Dr. Gary Kode believes that informed patients make empowered decisions. That is why he will discuss all potential risks and considerations transparently during the consultation process.

Potential risks associated with a brachioplasty include:

• Scarring: Although scar placement is carefully planned, all surgeries leave permanent scars. Over time, scars usually fade but may remain visible under certain lighting or in sleeveless clothing. Inner arm skin is typically thin and known to have variable healing.
• Seroma (fluid accumulation): A collection of fluid under the skin may develop after surgery, requiring drainage in some cases. Proper compression and careful surgical technique help reduce this risk.
• Altered sensation: Temporary or permanent changes in skin sensation, such as numbness or tingling, can occur along the incision lines. It can be temporary or permanent in some cases.
• Delayed healing: Some patients, particularly smokers or those with medical conditions affecting circulation, may experience slower wound healing or wound breakdown.
• Asymmetry: Slight variations between arms is to be expected. However, significant differences may occur postoperatively despite meticulous surgical technique, as human anatomy is genetically asymmetrical.

Understanding these potential outcomes helps patients proceed with realistic expectations and appropriate preparation for their surgical journey.

For more information visit our risks and complications page.

Why Choose Dr. Gary Kode for Your Brachioplasty Arm Lift in Melbourne?

Patients across Melbourne choose Dr. Gary Kode for their brachioplasty needs due to his:

• Extensive surgical experience: As a Specialist Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon, Dr. Kode brings years of focused surgical experience, especially in excess skin reduction procedures.
• Personalised patient care: From first consultation through to final postoperative review, patients work directly with Dr. Kode, meaning patients receive clear communication, continuity of care, and personalised surgical planning.
• Commitment to realistic outcomes: Dr. Kode sets honest expectations, aiming to achieve proportionate, balanced results rather than artificial or exaggerated outcomes.
• Strong focus on safety and quality: Surgeries are performed in accredited facilities. Every effort is made to prioritise patient well-being before, during, and after surgery.

Choosing a surgeon is an important decision. Dr. Kode’s patient-centred approach makes sure the decision to undergo surgery is guided by knowledge, trust, and mutual respect.

Book Your Consultation with Dr. Gary Kode

If you are considering a brachioplasty and would like to learn more about your options, we warmly invite you to arrange a confidential consultation with Dr. Gary Kode in Melbourne.

During your consultation, Dr. Kode will:

• Conduct a thorough assessment of your concerns and goals.
• Explain the available surgical approaches suited to your anatomy.
• Discuss potential outcomes, risks, and recovery timelines clearly and honestly.
• Help develop a treatment plan tailored uniquely to you.

Your journey toward achieving your desired outcomes begins with a trusted conversation.
 Contact Dr. Gary Kode’s practice if you would like to schedule an appointment.

Further Reading

• Read more about Abdominoplasty Melbourne (Tummy Tuck)
• Read more about Body Surgery
  
  

Medical References

• “L-Brachioplasty: An Adaptable Technique for Moderate to Severe Excess Skin and Fat of the Upper Arms” Aesthetic Surgery Journal. https://academic.oup.com/asj/article/30/4/620/202114
• “Incidence and Risk Factors of Major Complications in Brachioplasty” Aesthetic Surgery Journal. https://academic.oup.com/asj/article/36/7/792/2664540