Arm liposuction

Arm liposuction removes localised fat from the upper arm, typically focusing on the posterior (back) of the upper arm. Me Clinic's plastic surgeons offer several approaches, from traditional liposuction techniques through to laser-assisted methods.

Fat can accumulate in the upper arm with weight gain, ageing or genetic factors, and this area often does not respond to exercise and diet in the way other areas do. Arm liposuction can be performed on both men and women, and is used to address disproportion or asymmetry in the upper arm.

What the procedure involves

A cannula is inserted through small incisions and attached to a suction device to extract fat from the upper arm. The incisions are placed in less visible areas such as the natural creases of the skin.

It is a same-day procedure and can be performed under local or general anaesthesia, depending on the volume of fat being removed. See local or general anaesthesia.

What it addresses

Excess fat in the upper arm.
Asymmetry between the arms.
Disproportion between the upper arms and the rest of the body.

Removing fat can make the arms appear more contoured. Some liposuction methods, including laser-assisted techniques, may stimulate some collagen production, which can contribute to skin tightening. Outcomes vary depending on individual anatomy and skin quality, and individual results may vary.

An important limitation: fat versus skin

Liposuction removes fat. It does not remove excess skin.

Where there is significant loose skin on the upper arm - which is common after substantial weight loss - liposuction alone will not achieve the result. In those cases it is combined with, or replaced by, an arm lift (brachioplasty), which removes the excess skin. A brachioplasty leaves a longer scar than liposuction.

Which applies to you depends on how much of the concern is fat and how much is skin. Your surgeon will assess this at consultation, and being clear about it upfront avoids disappointment.

Scarring

Liposuction incisions are small and placed in less visible areas such as natural skin creases, so scarring is typically minimal compared with a brachioplasty or arm lift. Scars generally fade and become less noticeable over time.

Wherever an incision is made there will be a scar, and how a scar heals varies between individuals depending on skin type and how the body heals.

Suitability

A good candidate is in good general health with realistic expectations, has localised fat rather than predominantly loose skin, and is at a stable weight. Liposuction is a contouring procedure, not a weight loss method, and is generally appropriate for people within about 30 percent of their ideal body weight.

Smokers have an increased risk of complications from any surgery.

Costs

Arm liposuction surgeon's fees fall within the general per-area range of $4,000 to $8,000 for one area. Me Clinic's published pricing also quotes arm liposuction at $6,000 to $8,000 per hour of theatre time - a different basis of measurement. Your quote will make clear which applies.

Hospital, theatre and anaesthetist fees are additional. Anaesthetist fees range from $800 to $1,200 per hour where a general anaesthetic is used. As at September 2024 and including GST, a consultation with a Specialist Plastic Surgeon is $350.

See liposuction costs for the full breakdown.

Recovery

Arm liposuction is a same-day procedure with a relatively short recovery compared with an arm lift.

You need someone to drive you home and stay with you for at least 24 hours where a general anaesthetic is used.
Compression garments are worn to reduce swelling and assist recovery. How long depends on the amount of fat removed.
Expect swelling and bruising, settling over the following weeks.
Avoid exercise for the first two weeks; gentle walking is encouraged.
Most people return to work after two to three weeks and to their usual exercise routine by around six weeks.
Domestic flights are usually fine at around two weeks; wait six to eight weeks for international flights and before swimming.

Most patients are seen at seven to ten days, then at six to eight weeks, three months, six months and twelve months.

Risks and complications

All surgical procedures carry risks and potential complications, including infection, bruising, swelling, pain, scarring, bleeding and haematoma, seroma, contour irregularity, changes in sensation from nerve damage, anaesthesia complications and blood clots.

Risks are discussed with you in detail during the consultation process, and you are given written information to take home. Please read our information on the risks and complications of cosmetic surgery before proceeding.

Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.

Referral and cooling-off period

Since 1 July 2023, all patients are required to have a GP referral before seeing a plastic surgeon or doctor about cosmetic surgery. For any cosmetic surgery there is a compulsory one-week cooling-off period after your second consultation before surgery can be booked.

See brachioplasty (arm lift), liposuction, or liposuction costs.