As with any plastic or cosmetic surgery, it is an elective procedure (this means you are choosing to have it done) which is performed in order to reshape and enhance the appearance of a part of your body.

After losing a significant amount of weight, you may find that you still have loose, hanging underarm skin that resembles bat wings.

Although you can improve your upper-arm appearance with exercise, excess skin remains a problem that does not improve with exercise.

A scarless arm lift isn’t possible. Even with a mini arm lift small incisions are necessary, which will result in subtle scarring.

Some clinics offer non-surgical treatments like radiofrequency skin tightening which can improve firmness when performed correctly, but these methods are not available at Benenden Hospital.

Your Surgeon will make a long incision between your elbow and armpit on the underside of your arm. Depending on your condition and situation the incision could be minimal.

Be sure to discuss your incision with your Surgeon. Segments of skin and fat will be removed, and the remaining skin and tissue will be lifted resulting in a tighter, smoother look.

Dressings will be applied, and drains may be put in to drain any fluid or blood from the wound in the immediate post operative period.

Elasticated compression garments will be applied to support the area.

You will be given medication for pain relief.

It will be between two to three weeks before you can drive, but you should also check with your insurance company.

An upper arm reduction or an arm lift is usually performed under general anaesthetic and takes 90-120 minutes depending on the amount of reduction required and whether other procedures like liposuction are performed.

You will need a few weeks to recover and heal from an arm lift procedure. It will be at least one or two weeks before you can return to work and from two to three weeks before you can drive.

During the first two weeks, avoid activities that raise your blood pressure, which could cause bleeding at the operative site. Do not subject your incisions to excessive force, abrasion or motion during the time of healing.

Walking is the safest exercise, especially during the first week. Avoid exercises that directly stress the area of your surgery for four to six weeks.

After a month, you might be able to start minor cardiovascular activities, such as riding a stationary bicycle or brisk walking. Avoid heavy lifting, contact sports and jogging for up to six weeks.

By six weeks after your arm lift procedure, you should be able to resume your normal level of activity.

You should expect to feel pain and discomfort during the first week of recovery which can be managed with pain relief medication. Your Consultant will recommend appropriate medication.