Arm Lift Surgery Scars: What to Expect and How to Minimize Them

Posted February 24, 2025 in Arm Lift Surgery, Scarring

If you are unhappy with excess skin and fat on your upper arms, a brachioplasty (arm lift) could significantly improve their contours. However, it’s important to understand that this procedure is a major surgery and requires a surgical incision that will leave a scar on each arm. Understanding what to expect for arm lift scars and how to minimize scarring after plastic surgery can help you achieve satisfying results from arm lift surgery—even with the resulting scars.

What to Expect for Arm Lift Scars

During an arm lift, incisions are typically made along the inner surface of the upper arm, usually extending from the armpit to the elbow. This placement helps conceal the resulting scars when the arms are down and relaxed, but scars may be visible when the arms are raised.

Surgical scars often appear red and raised at first, but in most patients, the scars will fade and flatten over time. The extent of scarring varies based on individual healing characteristics and on steps taken to minimize scarring. Surgical scars can take up to a year or even 18 months to mature, and they will typically fade significantly over time.

Despite the scarring, arm lift patients are usually very pleased with their results. After surgery, patients enjoy that their arms now have a more pleasing and toned contour that can be shown off in short sleeves or even sleeveless clothing. The improvements in upper arm definition often make it easier to wear fitted sleeves as well.

Tips to Minimize Scarring After Plastic Surgery

If you are concerned about scarring after brachioplasty, the following tips can help you minimize your scars.

1. Choose a Qualified Surgeon: Selecting a board-certified plastic surgeon ensures that the procedure is performed with precision, reducing the likelihood of prominent scarring.
2. Follow Postoperative Instructions: Adhering to your surgeon’s aftercare guidelines is crucial for optimal healing. This includes caring for the incision sites and attending follow-up appointments, where your scars will be checked by your surgeon.
3. Avoid Sun Exposure: Protecting your scars from the sun prevents pigmentation changes that can make scars more noticeable. Use sunscreen and keep the area covered when outdoors, especially for the first few months after surgery.
4. Use Topical Treatments: Applying recommended creams or ointments, such as those containing vitamin E or aloe vera, can promote better healing and skin health.
5. Wear Silicone Sheets: Silicone gel sheets reduce tension at the incision site. This can lead to a thinner, flatter scar.
6. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Eating a nutritious diet and staying hydrated will support your body’s healing processes, leading to better scar outcomes.

Go here for more tips on how to reduce scarring after plastic surgery.

While postoperative scarring from arm lift surgery is unavoidable, it shouldn’t deter you from taking the plunge and enjoying the results. With proper aftercare and a skilled surgeon, you can look forward with confidence to minimal scarring and having the toned upper arms you desire.

Dr. Andres Taleisnik is a board-certified plastic surgeon in Orange County, California with extensive experience performing arm lift surgery and many other plastic surgery procedures. To book your consultation with Dr. Taleisnik, contact us online or call (657) 294-8375 today.