Brachioplasty (Arm Lift)
with Dr Georgina Konrat
Dr Georgina Konrat (MBBS, FACCSM) performs brachioplasty (arm lift) at her Bondi Junction clinic, planning the procedure according to upper-arm skin laxity, arm shape, and whether liposuction is also appropriate.
Key Facts
Brachioplasty, or arm lift surgery, removes excess skin and fat from the upper arms to improve arm shape. Liposuction is commonly used as part of the procedure. Dr Georgina Konrat performs brachioplasty at an accredited surgical facility in Sydney, with consultations and follow-up at her Bondi Junction clinic.
Procedure Duration
2–3 Hours
Recovery
1–6 Weeks
Anaesthesia
General
Reviewed by Dr Georgina Konrat (MBBS, FACCSM) — Last updated March 2026. AHPRA Registration: MED0001407863.
A Surgical Procedure for
Upper-Arm Skin & Shape
Brachioplasty, often called an arm lift, is designed to remove excess skin and fat from the upper arms to improve shape. It is commonly considered when the skin does not retract after weight change or where there is longstanding upper-arm laxity.
The procedure is routinely combined with liposuction of the upper arms. Dr Konrat will assess your skin quality, arm shape concerns, and whether brachioplasty is appropriate during consultation.
Risks & Complications
All surgical procedures carry risks. Potential risks and complications of Brachioplasty (Arm Lift) are outlined below and will also be discussed in detail during consultation.
For broader information about surgical risk, visit the General Risks and Complications page.
Reasons Patients Consider
Brachioplasty (Arm Lift)
Excess Upper-Arm Skin
Loose upper-arm skin that remains despite exercise, stable weight, or lifestyle changes.
Post-Weight-Loss Skin Changes
Residual upper-arm skin and fullness following weight change.
Upper-Arm Fullness
Patients who may also benefit from liposuction of the upper arms as part of surgery.
Clothing Concerns
Difficulty with fitted sleeves or upper-arm exposure.
Stable General Health
Best suited to patients in good general health who can follow aftercare carefully.
Realistic Expectations
An understanding that the procedure changes arm shape but leaves a permanent scar along the upper arm.
How an Arm Lift
Is Performed
An incision is usually placed along the inside or underside of the upper arm in the least conspicuous position possible. Excess skin and tissue are removed to change the shape of the arm.
Liposuction
Brachioplasty is routinely combined with liposuction of the upper arms to address both residual fat and excess skin.
Scar Position
The scar generally runs from near the elbow toward the armpit. Because this area is under tension when the arms move, scars can widen or thicken over time despite careful technique and aftercare.
Who May Not Be
Suitable
Brachioplasty is not suitable for everyone. It may not be appropriate after mastectomy or axillary lymph-node surgery, because arm drainage may already be impaired and further surgery can increase the risk of swelling.
Patients with repeated infections of the sweat glands or other conditions affecting the underarm region may also not be ideal candidates. Dr Konrat will assess your history and advise whether surgery is appropriate.
Your Brachioplasty (Arm Lift)
Process
Consultation & Referral
A GP referral is required. Two consultations (at least one in person) are needed before surgery. Dr Konrat will assess upper-arm skin laxity, fat distribution, health history, and whether brachioplasty is appropriate. A mandatory 7-day cooling-off period applies.
Pre-Operative Preparation
Smoking cessation, medication review, and planning your early recovery are important. Arrange time off work and a responsible adult to collect you and stay overnight after surgery.
The Day of Surgery
Performed under general anaesthesia at an accredited day surgery hospital. Surgery typically takes 2–3 hours and is often combined with liposuction of the upper arms.
Recovery & Follow-Up
Gentle walking starts early. Most patients resume normal daily activities in about a week, but strenuous activity and raising the arms above shoulder height are usually restricted for 4 to 6 weeks.
What to Expect
After Surgery
Recovery after brachioplasty focuses on protecting the arm incisions while allowing gentle movement. Swelling, bruising, and tightness are common in the first weeks, and scar care is especially important in this high-movement area.
Rest & Gentle Walking
Gentle walking and moving around the house are encouraged early to reduce the risk of clots and chest complications.
Return to Daily Activities
For many patients, normal daily activities can resume at about one week, depending on the extent of surgery and the demands of work.
Protect the Scars
Exercise is usually limited to walking and general household duties. Sleeping on your side hugging a pillow may reduce swelling and improve comfort.
Gradual Return to Exercise
Strenuous activity and raising the arms out to the side or above the head are usually delayed until about 4 to 6 weeks to reduce scar widening.
Important: Contact the clinic immediately if you experience excessive bleeding, severe pain, or signs of infection. Detailed aftercare instructions will be provided before and after your procedure.
Preparing for Your Consultation
- Bring your GP referral letter
- Prepare a list of medications, supplements, or medical conditions
- Write down any questions you would like to ask Dr Konrat
- Wear comfortable clothing to your appointment
How Much Does Brachioplasty (Arm Lift)
Cost?
A personalised quote is provided after consultation and includes the surgical fee, post-operative care, support garment, and the separate hospital and anaesthetic fees.
Dr Georgina Konrat is a cosmetic doctor, so Medicare and private health insurance rebates do not apply to procedures performed through her practice.
Ready to discuss your options?
Personalised fee estimate after consultation
Have questions? Contact our clinic or call 02 9188 1949.
Before & After
Gallery
View before and after photographs from Dr Konrat's practice. All photographs are shared with patient consent and are intended for educational purposes only.
Photographs are intended for persons aged 18 years and over. Individual results vary. All surgical procedures carry risks. AHPRA: MED0001407863.
Frequently Asked Questions
The information on this page is general in nature and does not replace medical advice. All surgical procedures carry risks, and outcomes vary between individuals. A consultation with Dr Georgina Konrat is required to determine whether this procedure is appropriate for you.
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Ready to Book a Consultation?
The first step is a confidential consultation where Dr Konrat will discuss your concerns, explain the procedure in detail, and answer any questions you may have.
A GP referral is required for surgical procedures. Please note the mandatory 7-day cooling off period applies to all cosmetic surgery consultations.