Restore Sleek, Confident Arms with Brachioplasty

At Holcomb–Kreithen Plastic Surgery & Medspa in Tampa, our board-certified surgeons specialize in arm lift procedures that eliminate sagging skin and sculpt more toned, youthful upper arms. Known as brachioplasty, this body contouring surgery is ideal for patients who have experienced significant weight loss, natural aging, or loss of skin elasticity due to genetics. Whether you're frustrated by excess skin that affects your clothing fit or you're self-conscious about raising your arms, our surgical team creates personalized solutions to help you achieve tighter, more contoured arms and renewed self-confidence.

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Is an Arm Lift Right for You?

The best candidates for an arm lift in Tampa are individuals in good health who experience loose, hanging skin on the upper arms. Common causes include:

  • Aging and skin laxity
  • Dramatic weight loss
  • Post-bariatric body changes
  • Genetic predisposition

Ideal patients are non-smokers, have realistic expectations, and are committed to maintaining a stable weight after surgery. During your consultation, your surgeon will review your medical history and goals to ensure brachioplasty is the best option for your needs.

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Before & After Feature Arm Lift

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When to Wait on Surgery

You may need to delay your arm lift if:

  • You’re still actively losing weight
  • You’ve recently had bariatric surgery and your weight hasn’t stabilized
  • You smoke and haven’t stopped at least one month before surgery

Maintaining healthy healing conditions is essential, and our team will provide clear pre-surgical instructions to help you prepare.

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How Much Does an Arm Lift Cost in Tampa?

The cost of an arm lift at our Tampa location varies based on your individual needs. This estimate includes:

  • Surgeon’s fees
  • Facility and anesthesia costs
  • Post-op appointments and supplies

A detailed, personalized quote will be provided after your consultation.

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What to Expect During Your Consultation

Your journey begins with a thorough, private consultation. Dr. Joshua Kreithen or Dr. J. David Holcomb will discuss:

  • Your goals and expectations
  • Medical history and previous procedures
  • Medications, allergies, and surgical suitability

Following the exam, you’ll meet with our patient coordinator to review pricing, scheduling, and next steps. You're welcome to bring a friend or family member for support.

Where Surgery Is Performed

Arm lift procedures in Tampa are typically performed at our AAAASF-accredited surgical facility. Most are outpatient procedures, though overnight stays may be recommended when combined with other treatments.

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How the Arm Lift Procedure Works

Surgery Duration: 1–2 hours
Anesthesia: IV sedation or general anesthesia

Step-by-Step Overview:

  • An incision is made along the inner arm, from the armpit to the elbow (customized to your anatomy).
  • Excess skin and fat are removed.
  • If desired, liposuction may be used to refine the shape.
  • Skin is re-draped and sutured with dissolvable stitches placed beneath the skin.
  • A drain may be placed to minimize fluid buildup.
  • Sterile dressings and a compression garment are applied for support.

Our surgeons focus on creating a smooth, natural contour with techniques designed to reduce visible scarring.

Types of Anesthesia

We offer two safe and effective anesthesia options:

  • General Anesthesia: You are completely asleep and won’t feel or remember the procedure.

  • IV Sedation (“Twilight Sleep”): You remain in a deeply relaxed state, with local anesthetic applied at the surgical site.

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Risks and Potential Complications

While arm lift surgery is generally safe, potential risks include:

  • Infection
  • Blood clots
  • Delayed healing
  • Scarring
  • Fluid buildup
  • Numbness in the arm

These risks are minimized by working with our experienced surgical team and carefully following aftercare instructions.

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Your Recovery Timeline

  • Day of Surgery: Return home with a friend or family member

  • First Few Days: Swelling, soreness, and limited mobility

  • 1 Week: Most patients feel well enough to return to non-strenuous work

  • 2–3 Days: Transition from narcotics to over-the-counter pain relief

  • 3 Weeks: Continue wearing compression garment

  • 4–6 Weeks: Resume normal physical activities gradually

  • Full Results: Noticeable improvements right away, with final contour visible after swelling subsides

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What About Scarring?

The incision typically runs from the underarm to the elbow along the inner arm. While scars are a natural part of the healing process, our team uses advanced closure techniques to minimize their appearance.

Patients with moderate to severe sagging skin generally find the scar to be a worthwhile trade-off for the dramatic contour improvement. We'll discuss your unique case and options during your consultation.

Your New Look

You’ll notice tighter, smoother arm contours immediately following surgery. As swelling decreases over the next several weeks, your results will continue to refine. Most patients resume their daily routine within several days, feeling more confident and comfortable in their clothing and skin.

Why Choose Us for Arm Lift Surgery in Tampa?

  • Board-certified plastic surgeons with decades of experience
  • Fully accredited surgical facility
  • Personalized care and attention from consultation through recovery
  • Advanced techniques designed for optimal outcomes and minimal downtime
  • Located conveniently at our Tampa office
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Schedule Your Arm Lift Consultation

Ready to achieve smoother, firmer arms? Schedule a consultation at our Tampa location and take the next step toward a more sculpted silhouette.

Accessibility: If you are vision-impaired or have some other impairment covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act or a similar law, and you wish to discuss potential accommodations related to using this website, please contact our Accessibility Manager at (813) 694-4483.
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