
Upper Arm Lift – Tighten Your Upper Arms
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Sagging skin on the upper arms can develop as a result of weight loss or the age-related decline in skin elasticity. Diet, exercise, or massage often cannot resolve loose, crepey skin on the upper arms. For women in particular, flabby arms and loss of skin elasticity are a significant concern. The so-called 'bingo wings' make wearing sleeveless dresses or T-shirts feel uncomfortable.
At a glance
- Duration of procedure: approx. 2 hours
- Anaesthesia: General anaesthesia
- Hospital stay: 1–4 nights inpatient
- Recovery: 6 weeks compression garment
- Method: Classic surgery, Sculptra treatment, liposuction with BodyTite™ (Morpheus8)
- Socially presentable: after approx. 1 week
- Final result: after approx. 3 months
- Cost of upper arm lift: depending on the extent of tightening required
Aesthetic upper arm lift with ultra-fine sutures
Today's most advanced aesthetic techniques make it possible to place ultra-fine sutures and to connect blood vessels and nerves with exceptional precision. During upper arm lift surgery, excess skin and fatty tissue are removed and the skin is then tightened.
Alternatives:
Sculptra
treatment
Liposuction
with BodyTite™ (
Morpheus8
)
During upper arm lift surgery, the incisions are placed in such a way that any resulting scars remain barely visible. Naturally, this procedure only makes sense when the skin suffers from moderate to significant loss of elasticity. The upper arm lift can also be combined with
liposuction
. Whether this is necessary will be discussed by
Dr. Schuhmann
with you during your
consultation
following a careful assessment of your individual situation.
Specialist in upper arm lift surgery

As a leading specialist in upper arm lift surgery in Düsseldorf and Berlin, I look back on over two decades of experience as a plastic and aesthetic surgeon. With dedication and expertise, I have helped countless patients strengthen their self-confidence through aesthetic improvements during my 18 years as a consultant surgeon. My approach to upper arm lift surgery is characterised by innovative techniques and a personalised treatment approach that takes into account the unique needs of each patient. My aim is not only to achieve outward change, but also to promote inner wellbeing. Through careful planning and precise execution, I consistently strive for harmonious results that allow for a radiant, confident appearance and bring out each individual's personal beauty.
Dr. Karl Schuhmann
– Düsseldorf & Berlin
Upper arm lift – Düsseldorf & Berlin

The prerequisites for an upper arm lift include good general health, realistic expectations, possible cessation of smoking, and a stable weight. The cost of an upper arm lift varies depending on the chosen method – e.g. classic surgery,
Sculptra
treatment,
liposuction
, or BodyTite™ with
Morpheus8
– and the extent of the treatment. An accurate cost estimate can only be provided following an individual consultation with
Dr. Schuhmann
as a specialist in Plastic and Aesthetic Surgery. We would be delighted to advise you personally on your concerns.
Classic upper arm lift surgery:
The classic upper arm lift operation, also known as brachioplasty, is a surgical procedure for the removal of excess skin and fatty tissue, enabling flaccid-looking upper arms to be tightened and reshaped. The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia and typically involves an incision on the inner aspect of the arm, extending from the axilla to the elbow. The aim is to achieve a smoother, firmer appearance. Recovery generally takes several weeks, and swelling and bruising may occur.
Sculptra
treatment for upper arm tightening:
The
Sculptra
treatment is a non-surgical option for upper arm tightening that uses injections of poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) to stimulate the body's own collagen production and improve skin firmness. During this treatment, multiple injections of
Sculptra
are administered into the skin of the upper arm to tighten and strengthen the skin from within. Over time, this leads to an improvement in skin firmness and texture. The treatment typically requires several sessions spaced a few weeks apart in order to achieve optimal results. Recovery time with this upper arm tightening method is minimal, and most patients can return to their daily activities immediately.
Liposuction
with BodyTite™ (
Morpheus8
) for upper arm tightening:
Upper arm tightening with
liposuction
and BodyTite™ (
Morpheus8
) is a minimally invasive procedure that additionally uses radiofrequency energy to achieve the best possible results. Unlike conventional
liposuction
, BodyTite™ achieves additional tightening through the thermal energy of radiofrequency. Tiny probes are inserted beneath the skin, delivering controlled heat to stimulate the fatty tissue. At the same time, the skin is tightened, as the radiofrequency energy stimulates collagen production, thereby improving skin elasticity. Recovery time is shorter compared to traditional upper arm lift surgery, and most patients are able to return to their normal activities within a few days.
BodyTite™ and
liposuction
– Frequently asked question:
Does upper arm tightening with BodyTite™ require
liposuction
?
No – this depends on the individual's circumstances and their specific wishes. Even in cases of lax skin, for example following significant weight loss, after pregnancy, or in cases of so-called 'loose skin' resulting from a poorly performed
liposuction
,
Dr. Schuhmann
can perform a selective, standalone BodyTite™ (
Morpheus8
) treatment. During a personalised
consultation
, your options and possibilities will be discussed with you in detail.
Upper arm lift – surgery and aftercare
You should avoid painkillers such as aspirin for 2 weeks before the operation, and refrain from alcohol, nicotine, and sleeping tablets. The upper arm lift is performed under general anaesthesia. Depending on the extent of the procedure, you should expect to stay in the clinic for 1–4 nights.
What you may feel after your upper arm lift
After the operation, you will often experience a sensation of tension in the upper arm skin due to the tightening that has been performed, as well as some wound discomfort. The wound discomfort subsides within a short time, while the sensation of tension gradually resolves over several weeks. The wound from the arm lift generally heals well with light compression dressings.
Upper arm lift procedure – having your upper arms tightened

Pre-operative consultation with Dr. Schuhmann:
an in-depth
consultation
takes place first, during which your wishes, options, and realistic outcomes are established
during this consultation you will have the opportunity to discuss all your questions and concerns relating to the upper arm lift
Dr. Schuhmann
carries out a thorough physical examination and enquires about any existing conditions, allergies, and current medications
comprehensive information is provided about potential risks and how to manage any temporary limitations in movement
following the consultation, you can arrange a surgical date for your upper arm lift with
Dr. Schuhmann
Anaesthesia and pre-operative preparation:
Prior to the operation, you will receive comprehensive guidance regarding your anaesthesia
The upper arm lift can be performed either with intravenous sedation or general anaesthesia.
Surgical procedure:
the operation typically lasts between two and three hours
the length and position of the skin incision depend on the amount of excess skin that needs to be removed
Dr. Schuhmann
places the skin incision either on the inner or posterior aspect of the upper arm, normally extending from the axilla to just above the elbow
if required,
liposuction
is performed to optimise the result
the underlying supporting tissue is tightened and the skin is smoothly secured over the new contour of the arm
Skin closure:
the skin is closed using a minimally invasive technique, ensuring that no significant long-term scarring results
for further support, you will receive additional guidance and recommendations
Post-operative care:
after the operation, the treated areas of skin are covered and the arms are dressed to reduce swelling
an elastic bandage or compression sleeve may be worn as required
a drainage tube is occasionally placed to allow excess wound fluid to drain away – this will, however, be determined during the prior consultation
Aftercare and results:
You will be able to admire the result of your upper arm lift immediately after the operation, even though swelling and bruising still need to subside.
Dr. Karl Schuhmann
will provide you with individual advice for your aftercare, including recommendations for everyday activities and possible medications to support the healing process. He will also be on hand for you at his practice at any time.
Upper arm tightening without surgery
… with
Morpheus8
or a
Sculptra
treatment – during a personalised
consultation
,
Dr. Schuhmann
will outline your options.
During a personalised
consultation
, we will clarify your individual ideas and wishes. Please feel free to arrange a no-obligation
consultation appointment
for your upper arm lift. I look forward to welcoming you to my practice in Düsseldorf or Berlin.
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