Arm Lift in Istanbul
An arm lift removes loose skin and fat from the upper arms to create a firmer, slimmer contour between the armpit and the elbow. Dr. Semih Yıldız plans the incision and the amount of skin removal around your arm shape.
AT A GLANCE
Anaesthesia: General
Operation time: 2–3 hours
Hospital stay: 1 night
Stay in Istanbul: About 7–10 days
Back to work: 1–2 weeks
Final result: 6–12 months
What is an arm lift?
An arm lift, or brachioplasty, removes excess skin and fat from the underside of the upper arms. It is often chosen after major weight loss or with ageing, when loose skin cannot be improved with exercise.
Liposuction of the inner arm is included to refine the contour. The trade-off is a scar along the inner arm, which is planned to be as discreet as possible.
Who is a good candidate?
- Adults in good general health with a stable weight
- People with loose, hanging skin on the upper arms after weight loss or with ageing
- Patients who accept a scar along the inner arm in exchange for a firmer contour
- Anyone with realistic expectations who can stop smoking before and after surgery
If your arms have mainly fat with good skin elasticity, liposuction alone may be enough, and this is decided at your examination.
Arm lift techniques
The technique depends on how much loose skin there is and where it is located.
Standard arm lift
Excess skin and fat are removed through an incision along the inner arm from the armpit towards the elbow.
Mini arm lift
For limited loose skin close to the armpit, a shorter scar hidden in the armpit may be enough.
Extended arm lift
After major weight loss, the incision can extend onto the side of the chest to treat loose skin there as well.
Arm liposuction
Liposuction refines the arm contour and is included with the arm lift.
International Certificates
Our international certificates and memberships that validate our quality and expertise.
How the operation is performed
- Planning: your photos, medical history and goals are reviewed and the technique is agreed before the day of surgery.
- Marking: the amount of skin to be removed is marked with your arms raised.
- Anaesthesia: the operation is performed under general anaesthesia and usually takes 2–3 hours.
- Contouring: liposuction refines the arm and the excess skin is removed.
- Closing: the incisions are closed in layers and compression sleeves are fitted.
- Aftercare: most patients stay one night in hospital for monitoring before moving to their hotel.
Recovery timeline
First 2–3 days: Swelling and tightness are strongest. Keep your arms elevated on pillows; discomfort is usually controlled with simple painkillers.
Around day 7–10: Wound checks are completed and most patients are cleared to fly home.
Weeks 1–2: Most patients return to desk work and light daily activities.
Weeks 4–6: Compression sleeves are worn for about 4–6 weeks, and lifting and sport resume gradually.
Month 3: Most of the swelling has settled and the firmer arm contour is clearly visible.
Months 6–12: The final result appears as the scar matures and fades.
How to prepare
- Keep your weight stable in the months before surgery.
- Stop smoking and nicotine products at least 4 weeks before and after surgery.
- Tell us about all medicines and supplements; blood thinners, aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil and some herbal products may need to be paused.
- Send clear photos of your arms from the front and back, with your arms raised, for the online assessment.
- Plan about 7–10 days in Istanbul and 1–2 weeks away from work.
Risks and possible complications
Every operation carries risk. Possible complications of an arm lift include:
- Bleeding, infection or fluid collection
- Delayed wound healing
- Visible, widened or thickened scars
- Changes in skin sensation on the arm
- Asymmetry or contour irregularity
- Prolonged swelling
- The need for revision surgery
Benefits, limitations and alternatives are discussed in detail during your consultation and informed consent.
Your arm lift journey in Istanbul
Before you travel
Share your photos and medical history for an online consultation. You receive a personalised plan and a written quotation before booking.
Surgery day
After pre-operative tests and a face-to-face consultation with Dr. Semih Yıldız, the incision lines are marked and the operation takes place in hospital.
Recovery in Istanbul
You recover at your hotel and return for check-ups. Most patients are cleared to fly home about 7–10 days after surgery.
Back home
Follow-up continues remotely through photos and video calls, so your progress is monitored after you return home.
Arm lift cost in Istanbul
Arm lift prices in Turkey start from €2,130, including liposuction of the inner arms. The price depends on the extent of the operation, combined procedures and the length of your hospital stay. To get Dr. Semih Yıldız’s personal price, request a free online assessment. You receive a written quotation with clear package details.
The surgery price includes hospital fees, anaesthesia, implants where required for the procedure, follow-up checks, medications and any required compression garments. Hotel accommodation and transfers are not included in the prices shown but can be arranged at an additional cost as part of a complete package.
Frequently asked questions
How much does an arm lift in Istanbul cost?
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In Turkey, arm lift prices start from €2,130, including liposuction of the inner arms. To get Dr. Semih Yıldız’s personal price, request a free online assessment.
Arm lift or arm liposuction: which do I need?
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Liposuction removes fat when the skin is still firm. An arm lift also removes loose skin. Examination shows which suits you.
Where is the arm lift scar?
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The scar runs along the inner side of the upper arm, where it is least visible. It fades over 12 months but does not disappear completely.
How long should I stay in Istanbul?
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Most international patients stay about 7–10 days, so the wounds can be checked before the flight home.
When can I go back to work?
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Most people return to desk work after 1–2 weeks. Lifting and heavy physical work usually need about 6 weeks.
How long do I need to wear compression sleeves?
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Compression sleeves are usually worn for about 4–6 weeks to control swelling and support healing.
Can an arm lift be combined with other surgery?
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Yes, it is often combined with other body contouring procedures after weight loss. Combining procedures is decided after assessment.
Is the result permanent?
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The removed skin does not come back, but ageing and weight changes continue to affect the arms. A stable weight helps preserve the result.
This page provides general information and does not replace a medical examination.
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