Some discomfort is normal after an arm lift, but it can be managed with prescribed pain medication and proper post-operative care. Swelling, bruising, and tightness along the upper arms are common in the first few days after surgery. Compression garments help reduce swelling, provide support, and improve comfort during the healing process. Most patients report that pain diminishes significantly after the first week, and by the second week, discomfort is usually minimal.

An arm lift requires several appointments to ensure a safe procedure and a successful recovery. Patients begin with a consultation to discuss their goals, medical history, and a personalized surgical plan, followed by a pre-operative appointment. After surgery, follow-up visits are generally scheduled within the first week, at two weeks, and at six weeks to monitor healing, remove any drains that may have been used, and assess the surgical results. Additional appointments may be recommended depending on your progress or if the arm lift is combined with other procedures.

Patients will notice an immediate improvement in the contour of their arms after surgery, as excess skin and fat are removed and the tissue is tightened. However, swelling and bruising are normal during the first few weeks and may temporarily obscure the final results. Still, most patients see a more defined and natural-looking arm shape within 4 to 6 weeks as swelling subsides and tissues settle. Full results, including smooth skin and firm contour, are usually visible around three months post-surgery.

Yes, an arm lift can be combined with other body contouring procedures, such as a breast lift, liposuction, or a lower body lift, to achieve a more dramatic transformation. Combining procedures can help create balanced results and may reduce overall recovery time compared to having multiple surgeries separately, and Dr. Craft carefully evaluates each patient’s health, anatomy, and aesthetic goals to determine which procedures can be safely combined.

As with any surgery, an arm lift carries potential risks, though serious complications are uncommon when performed by a board-certified surgeon like Dr. Craft. Swelling, bruising, temporary numbness, and mild discomfort around the incision area are common side effects, but less common risks may include infection, poor wound healing, fluid accumulation (seroma), or visible scarring. Dr. Craft emphasizes meticulous surgical technique, detailed pre- and post-operative care, and close follow-up to minimize risks and ensure a safe and successful outcome.