An arm lift (brachioplasty) in Sydney is a surgical procedure used to remove excess skin and tissue from the upper arms. It is commonly considered by individuals who experience loose or sagging skin following significant weight loss, ageing, or reduced skin elasticity.
At Pure Aesthetics, brachioplasty surgery is performed by registered specialist plastic surgeons in accredited facilities. Each procedure is planned individually following a comprehensive consultation and clinical assessment.
Meet your Surgeon
Dr Robert Knight
Meet your Surgeon
Dr Robert Knight FRACS:
Registered Specialist Plastic Surgeon
AHPRA MED0001198549
Education and Training:
Attended medical school in South Africa, and trained at the internationally renowned Baragwanath Hospital
Awarded a Cyanamid Pharmaceutical Scholarship, the Medical Students Council Award and the Graham Wilkinson Medal
Member of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh
Awarded the LGI cardiothoracic prize and presented at several conferences in London, Stockholm and Cologne
Associate conjoint lecturer at the University of New South Wales and awarded with several prestigious awards including the SEALS postgraduate research scholarship for three years
Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons
Awarded with the Australian Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons Scholarship
Co-author of the international alert paper on breast implant-related anaplastic large cell lymphoma
Travelled to Italy to learn from world experts in rhinoplasty and face lift surgery at the prestigious Bergamo Rhinoplasty course
Attended the Mentor Masterclass course of Breast Enlargement in Sydney and the internationally renowned FACE workshop in Melbourne
Qualifications:
Specialist Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic/Cosmetic Surgeon (FRACS)
Specialist Craniomaxillofacial and Paediatric Plastic Surgeon (FRACS)
Aesthetic Surgeon – American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons, Australian Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons and the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons
Doctorate in Medicine
Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery
Professional Associations:
Australian Health Practitioners Regulation Agency – AHPRA
Royal Australasian College of Surgeons
Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons
Australian Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons
American Society of Maxillofacial Surgeons
American Society of Craniofacial Surgeons
Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh
American College of Surgeons
International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons
International Society of Plastic and Regenerative Surgery
An arm lift can assist in providing a smooth, toned and contoured appearance to the upper arms. Benefits of Brachioplasty include:
Reduces bulky fat in the upper arms
Removes loose underarm skin, particularly after weight loss
Creates a better contoured arm shape
Allows clothes to fit better and more comfortably
What Is an Arm Lift (Brachioplasty)?
An arm lift operation, also referred to as brachioplasty, focuses on the area between the underarm and the elbow. The procedure removes loose skin and excess tissue and aims to create a more proportionate contour, depending on individual factors.
Some patients also enquire about arm liposuction in Sydney. Liposuction may be discussed in selected cases where skin quality is adequate, but it does not address skin laxity. Where excess skin is present, brachioplasty may be considered instead or in combination, depending on clinical assessment.
Who May Consider Arm Lift Surgery?
An arm lift in Sydney may be discussed with individuals who experience:
Loose or overhanging upper arm skin after weight loss
Skin irritation, rubbing, or hygiene concerns caused by excess skin
Reduced skin elasticity related to ageing or genetics
Persistent arm contour concerns despite stable weight and lifestyle
Arm lift surgery is not a weight-loss procedure. Patients are generally advised to be close to a stable and healthy weight and to avoid smoking prior to surgery.
The Arm Lift Procedure
During an arm lift operation, an incision is placed along the inner or posterior aspect of the upper arm. In some cases, the incision may extend from the underarm toward the elbow, depending on the degree of skin excess.
Excess skin and tissue are removed, and the remaining skin is repositioned and secured. The final incision length and scar placement depend on individual anatomy and surgical requirements.
Can Arm Lift Surgery Be Combined With Other Procedures?
Brachioplasty may sometimes be discussed as part of a broader surgical plan. Suitability and sequencing depend on individual health factors and surgical safety.
Whether procedures can be combined depends on individual health factors, recovery considerations, and surgical safety.
Recovery After Arm Lift Surgery
Recovery following brachioplasty surgery in Sydney varies between individuals. Swelling, bruising, and discomfort are expected during the early healing period.
Support garments may be recommended. Your surgeon will provide personalised after-care instructions and arrange follow-up appointments to monitor healing.
Scarring After Brachioplasty
Brachioplasty involves incisions that are necessary to remove excess skin. Scars are permanent. Their appearance may change over time and varies between individuals.
Your surgeon will discuss scar placement and expected appearance during consultation.
Costs of Arm Lift (Brachioplasty) Surgery in Sydney
***Please note, there have been recent Medicare changes that affect the costs associated with body contouring procedures (including arm lift).
As of 1 January 2016, brachioplasty attracts Medicare and health insurance rebates only after significant weight loss (BMI reduction of at least 5 points) and other specific criteria. If you do not meet these criteria, arm reduction is considered cosmetic, and there are no Medicare rebates, and private hospital insurance will not cover any costs.
Out-of-pocket expenses start at $16,500, including Surgeon, Anaesthetist, and hospital fees (where you meet the criteria for Medicare and are covered by private health insurance).
Please note, it is your responsibility to check with your insurance provider if you are covered for hospital and any associated costs.
For an accurate price, please contact us to schedule your consultation.
Is Arm Lift Surgery Right for You?
The most suitable candidates for arm lift surgery in Sydney are individuals with stable weight, good general health, and realistic expectations.
A consultation with a registered specialist plastic surgeon allows for a full assessment of your concerns, medical history, and suitability for surgery.
Important Information
Individual results vary. All surgery carries risks. A second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner is recommended before proceeding.