Upper arm lift in Zurich

Excess skin

Loose skin on the inner arm forms folds and moves when the arm is raised. It does not regress through training or time.

Remaining fat

A defined fat deposit on the inner arm can occur in isolation or accompany the excess skin.

After weight loss

After significant weight loss, the skin is usually the main concern; the extent often reaches into the armpit and beyond.

Age-related changes

Over the years, skin elasticity and connective tissue tension decrease; the contour changes even at a stable weight.

With good skin condition and an isolated fat deposit, liposuction can be sufficient. The incisions are small, recovery is shorter, and no long scar results.

The prerequisite is that the skin can adapt to the smaller volume. With already loose skin, this route is not suitable.

If the skin forms folds at rest, hangs markedly when the arm is held out to the side, or causes chafing and skin irritation, skin removal is the only procedure that actually addresses the findings.

The scar usually runs along the inner arm, depending on the extent from the armpit to the elbow. With limited excess in the upper third, a shorter scar placed in the armpit may be possible.

The scar on the inner arm is visible and can widen. This trade-off — a visible scar against a firmer contour — stands at the beginning of the decision, not at the end.

Fat is often removed first and the excess skin afterwards. This facilitates contouring; work in the area of the skin flap is conservative to preserve the blood supply.

Liposuction alone may be possible under local anaesthesia with sedation; a lift with skin removal is usually performed under general anaesthesia. Marking is done standing with the arm raised.

Arm movement

The arms are kept elevated in the first few days. Wide abduction and overhead movements are restricted for some weeks to avoid tension on the suture.

Compression

Compression sleeves are worn for several weeks; they support the subsiding of swelling.

Everyday life and sport

Light activities are usually possible early, carrying and strength training considerably later. Sport is resumed in stages after medical clearance.

Swelling

Swelling of the forearm and hand in the first weeks is usual and subsides.

Scar quality

Scars on the inner arm are under tension and tend to widen or thicken. Their course is individual and cannot be predicted.

Wound healing problems

Possible particularly in the armpit area, favoured by smoking, diabetes and obesity.

Changes in sensation

Numbness on the inner arm is common and may remain partly permanent.

Further risks

Postoperative bleeding, seroma, infection, lymphatic congestion, asymmetry, remaining contour differences, and the risks of anaesthesia.

Revision

Corrections to the scar or contour are possible and are assessed no earlier than after healing is complete.

The medical consultation for surgical procedures costs CHF 250. If you subsequently book an operation with us, the consultation fee is credited in full against the price of the operation. Following the examination, you will receive an individual cost breakdown that clearly states which services are included.

• Dr. med. Michael W. Payne

  Specialist in Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery

• Dr. med. Dr. Phil. Annemarie Nijboer

  Specialist in Surgery

• Body surgery — overview
• Liposuction
• Tummy tuck
• Excess skin after weight loss — decision guide
• Insights — body

The initial consultation is about clarification, not selling. It does not necessarily end with a surgery date — often it brings the realisation that a different approach, or no procedure at all, is the right choice.

The consultation process

1. 01

   Discussion

   We listen to your concerns, medical history, expectations and what you would like to change about your appearance.

2. 02

   Examination

   A careful clinical examination and assessment of your underlying anatomy.

3. 03

   Options

   Possible procedures, alternatives, limitations and risks — explained clearly and without time pressure.

4. 04

   Time to reflect

   You decide in your own time. Any outstanding questions can be addressed in a further consultation.