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Albany, NY
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Albany, NY

Arm Lift

Introduction

Introduction to Arm Lift

Loose or sagging skin along the upper arms can be a frustrating concern for patients who feel self-conscious about their arms or struggle to find clothing that fits comfortably in the upper arm area. Whether caused by significant weight loss, natural aging, or decreased skin elasticity, these changes often create a “batwing” appearance that cannot be corrected solely with exercise.

An Arm Lift, or brachioplasty, provides a surgical solution to remove excess skin, reduce localized fat, and restore a more toned, refined arm contour. Under the care of Dr. Craig Fournier, a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon in Albany, NY, patients receive a personalized, anatomically precise treatment plan that prioritizes safety, natural-looking results, and long-term skin quality. An arm lift can dramatically improve upper-arm shape, helping patients achieve the confidence to wear sleeveless clothing and restore comfort in their daily activities.

What is an Arm Lift?

An Arm Lift procedure that reshapes the upper arm by removing excess skin and fat between the underarm and the elbow. Over time, factors such as weight fluctuations, aging, and genetic predisposition cause the skin and supportive tissues of the arm to lose elasticity, leading to sagging or drooping.

During an arm lift, Dr. Fournier makes carefully placed incisions to access and excise redundant skin, and liposuction may also be used to remove excess fat and refine the contour. The underlying tissues may be tightened and reshaped, resulting in a final arm contour that appears smoother, firmer, and more proportionate to the rest of the body.

A smiling woman with red hair wearing a black spaghetti-strap dress, looking down in a bright room.

Who Are the Best Candidates For an Arm Lift?

An arm lift, offered in Albany, NY, is best suited for individuals who struggle with loose or sagging upper-arm skin that does not respond to exercise, diet, or non-surgical treatments. Patients who have experienced substantial weight loss, whether through lifestyle changes or bariatric surgery, often have stretched skin that cannot retract, making them excellent candidates for surgical correction.

Candidates should be in good overall health, maintain a stable weight, and have realistic expectations about the outcomes and scarring associated with brachioplasty. Good candidates also understand that while the procedure provides long-lasting improvement, the natural aging process will continue to affect skin elasticity over time. Additionally, individuals with good skin quality, a non-smoking lifestyle, and a commitment to postoperative care generally achieve the smoothest, most refined results.

What Are the Benefits of an Arm Lift?

The most significant advantage of an arm lift is the removal of excess, sagging skin, which dramatically improves the appearance of the arm and eliminates the laxity that often causes discomfort or embarrassment. Patients also benefit from improved proportion, as the procedure restores a balanced, toned look that better matches the rest of the body. Clothing fits more comfortably, and patients may feel more confident wearing sleeveless or fitted tops.

When combined with liposuction, an arm lift can further refine the shape by reducing excess fat, improving definition, and enhancing the overall contour’s smoothness. Functionally, eliminating heavy or pendulous skin can improve ease of movement and reduce skin friction-induced irritation. For individuals who have undergone significant weight loss, brachioplasty can be a meaningful step in completing their body transformation journey, offering an outcome that exercise alone cannot achieve.

A young woman sitting in a green armchair in the office lobby, looking down and focused while filling out digital intake forms on a tablet.

What’s the First Step?

The first thing you’ll need is a comprehensive consultation with Dr. Fournier in Albany. He will conduct a physical examination of the upper arms, assessing skin laxity, fat distribution, tissue elasticity, and overall arm proportion. You will discuss your concerns, goals, and expectations, while Dr. Fournier explains the surgical technique best suited to your anatomy, including whether liposuction should be incorporated for more refined contouring.

Patients may also review before-and-after photos and receive detailed information about scarring, recovery, and potential limitations.

What to Expect on the Day of Arm Lift Surgery

On the day of your brachioplasty, you will arrive at Fournier Plastic Surgery’s surgical facility, where the team will prepare you for surgery and review the surgical plan. Dr. Fournier will begin by marking the natural contours of your upper arms to guide incision placement.

Anesthesia, often general anesthesia or IV sedation, will be administered to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure. The incision may be placed along the inner arm, the back of the arm, or a limited portion of the underarm, depending on your surgical needs and the degree of excess skin. In more severe cases, the area of excision may also extend to the lateral chest wall. Excess skin is carefully excised, and the underlying supportive tissues will be tightened with internal sutures to enhance firmness.

If necessary, liposuction is used to remove localized fat and improve definition. Once the desired contour is achieved, the incisions are closed with sutures and dressed. Compression garments are applied to support healing, reduce swelling, and help the skin settle smoothly into its new position. After a brief recovery period at the facility, you will return home in the care of a responsible adult.

A bright, close-up shot of Dr. Fournier smiling warmly as he shakes hands with a patient, conveying a sense of trust and successful results.

Arm Lift Recovery

Recovery from an arm lift is progressive and involves several stages. During the first few days, patients may experience swelling, bruising, tightness, and mild discomfort, all of which improve steadily with proper care.

Keeping the arms elevated as much as possible can help reduce swelling, and wearing compression garments is essential for supporting the healing tissues. Patients are encouraged to avoid lifting, bending, or strenuous activities for the first few weeks to prevent tension on the incisions.

Most individuals can return to office work or light daily activities within 1–2 weeks, while full physical activity should be avoided for 4–6 weeks or until cleared by Dr. Fournier. As swelling diminishes, the new arm contour becomes more apparent, though residual swelling may persist for several months.

How Much Does an Arm Lift Cost in Albany, NY?

The cost of an Arm Lift in Albany, NY varies based on individual anatomy, the extent of skin removal required, the potential inclusion of liposuction, and the complexity of the surgical plan.

Fees also reflect anesthesia services, the use of an accredited surgical facility, and Dr. Fournier’s expertise as a board-certified plastic surgeon. Because brachioplasty is highly personalized, a detailed fee estimate is best provided during consultation after Dr. Fournier evaluates your specific needs.

Patients interested in combining their arm lift with additional body contouring procedures may receive adjusted pricing based on the comprehensive surgical plan.

Dr. Fournier, dressed in black clinical scrubs, sits with a patient in a comfortable lounge area while sharing information on a digital tablet.

Our Ethos

Why Choose Dr. Fournier?

Dr. Craig Fournier brings a unique, anatomy-driven approach to every arm lift procedure. As a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon affiliated with the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS), he creates results that look natural while effectively addressing functional and aesthetic concerns.

His emphasis on patient education, thoughtful surgical planning, and individualized care allows patients to feel informed and confident throughout their surgical journey. Dr. Fournier is known for his commitment to safety and his ability to achieve refined, predictable outcomes using modern surgical techniques. His Albany practice provides a supportive, patient-centered environment where each individual receives personalized attention from consultation through final recovery.

Arm Lift FAQ’S

Patient Reviews

  • ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

    Such An Amazing Doctor

    Dr. Fournier is not only dedicated to patient satisfaction and providing optimal results, he is compassionate, attentive and patient centered. He understands the importance of recognizing the unique needs of each patient and thus, focuses on individualizing his treatments so to maximize success for each patient . I would highly recommend Dr. Fournier to anyone considering a cosmetic procedure.

    – Cristine S.

  • ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

    Such an Amazing Doctor.

    Dr. Fournier is amazing. I had went in for a consult for a septoplasty/rhinoplasty. He was easy to talk to and very nonchalant but in the best way possible! He checked on me before my surgery and discussed what I wanted one last time. The day of he was very calm which also helped me stay calm. My recovery was also so easy, which shows he is very skilled at what he does. I had 0 bruising and very minimal swelling. I could also breathe so much better on day 1 of recovery and now 2 weeks later I have never been able to breathe the way I can now. If I ever need another procedure in the future I will be coming back to him!

     

    – Loprencak

  • ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

    My confidence has been on 10 since my surgery

    One of the best plastic surgeons in New York very caring and understanding. If your looking for the snatched look in New York this is definitely the doctor to go to. I was so amazed with his work. I had a tummy tuck with lipo, back lift and my hip dips filled in. I get so many compliments and my confidence has been on 10 since my surgery. I recommend all my family and friends to Dr.Fournier. Thanks again for making me feel good about myself again. You are truly the best.

    – sheemy05

  • ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

    Very helpful with the do’s and don’t and after care routine

    I had been going back and forth looking for the right surgeon for my face lift for the past 5 years, and finally decided to go through with it when I meet Dr. Fournier. From the first consultation, I was very impressed and makes me feel comfortable right away. While the others consultations with different Doctors, always left me with more questions and insecurities with Dr. Fournier all of my questions were answer in a professional and sincere manner. They were very helpful with the do and don’t and after care routine. To say that I am overjoyed with the results is an understatement. Dr. Fournier care and attention to every detail shows through in the results and I could not be happier. I would definitely recommend anyone interested in Facelift to Dr. Fournier

    – Leslie L.

Schedule Your Consultation

If sagging or excess skin along the upper arms is holding you back from feeling confident or comfortable in your body, an arm lift may offer the transformative results you’re seeking. Contact Fournier Plastic Surgery in Albany, NY, today to schedule your consultation. Give us a call or fill out the appointment form to get started.

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