Arm lift after significant weight loss (post-bariatric arm plastic surgery)

The procedure is performed by a plastic surgery specialist at TBL Medical, who has extensive experience in lipedema, liposuction, breast surgery, and body contouring.

Who is this procedure suitable for?

The procedure is suitable for those who have undergone significant weight loss and struggle with sagging skin on their upper arms, causing physical discomfort such as chafing, skin irritation, and problems with clothing, or who experience aesthetic discomfort related to the appearance of their arms.

What is post-bariatric arm plastic surgery?

Arm plastic surgery after significant weight loss involves the surgical removal of excess skin and fatty tissue from the upper arms, often combined with tightening of the underlying tissue. The goal is to recreate a firmer and more proportional shape.

The result is typically a slimmer arm contour, fewer skin problems, and improved freedom of movement and self-confidence.

Who is this procedure suitable for?

Typical candidates:

• Previous morbid obesity (BMI ≥ 40 or ≥ 35 with comorbidity)
• Stable weight over the last 6 months
• At least 2 years after undergoing weight loss surgery
• Excess skin that causes problems such as eczema, chafing, pain, or difficulties with physical activity

Andre krav inkluderer BMI < 35 (veiledende grense) og røykfrihet i minst 6 uker før og etter inngrepet.

Preparations before surgery

Before the surgery, you will have a consultation with our plastic surgeon. During this consultation, we will review your overall health, any previous surgeries, the condition of your skin, and realistic expectations regarding the outcome.

You must be smoke-free for at least 6 weeks before and after the procedure. Certain blood tests may be required to assess your nutritional status. We also recommend that you avoid alcohol and blood-thinning medication beforehand.

How is the procedure performed?

The procedure is performed under anesthesia and usually lasts 1.5–2 hours. The surgeon makes an incision on the inside or back of the upper arm, often from the armpit down to the elbow. Excess skin and any fat are removed, and the skin is tightened before being sutured with stitches that either dissolve or are removed later.

You can usually go home the same day.

After the operation (aftercare)

You should expect some swelling, bruising, and discomfort during the first few days. Your arm will be bandaged, and you will be given compression garments to wear for several weeks. The usual recovery time is 2–4 weeks.

Avoid heavy lifting and physical activity for the first 4–6 weeks. You can usually resume light office work after 7–10 days.

Risks and possible complications

As with all surgery, there are certain risks involved. Common side effects include:

• Swelling
• Bruises
• Temporary loss of sensation

Less common complications:

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Scarring or poor wound healing

Our plastic surgeon always conducts a thorough assessment to minimize risks, and all patients receive close follow-up care afterward.

Expected result

You will see improvement immediately after the operation, but the final result will only be visible after 3–6 months, once the swelling has subsided and the scars have matured.

The results are long-lasting if you maintain a stable weight. Realistic expectations are crucial for satisfaction.

Price and financing

The price of arm lift surgery after weight loss depends on whether you meet the requirements for VAT exemption in accordance with national guidelines. The recommended price for the procedure is between NOK 45,000 and NOK 60,000. Financing or partial payment can be offered through a partner. Contact us for an accurate price estimate.

Contact us for consultation

Would you like to find out if post-bariatric arm lift surgery is right for you? Book a no-obligation consultation with our plastic surgeon at TBL Medical in Bergen today.