Abigail Rodriguez M.D. Plastic Surgery
4400 Post Oak Pkwy, Suite 300
Houston, TX 77027
Phone: (713) 352-3199
Monday–Thursday: 8:30 a.m.–6 p.m.
Friday: 8:30 a.m.–4 p.m.
Abigail Rodriguez M.D. Plastic Surgery
12727 Kimberley Lane, Suite 300
Houston, TX 77024
Phone: (713) 799-9999
Monday–Thursday: 8:30 a.m.–6 p.m.
Friday: 8:30 a.m.–4 p.m.
An arm lift (brachioplasty) is a surgery that removes extra skin from the upper arms.
Dr. Rodriguez most commonly uses the brachioplasty technique, which involves an incision from just above the elbow to the axilla (armpit). This is placed on the inside of the upper arm. Most patients who request a brachioplasty require this technique. It addresses the loose skin of the entire upper arm. If a significant amount of skin needs to be removed and loose skin is present in the axilla as well, the incision may extend past the axilla onto the side of the chest.
On occasion, some patients have loose skin at the upper arm, but only a small amount, localized to the very upper arm near the axilla. In these situations, Dr. Rodriguez may recommend a different technique that involves an incision only in the axillary crease. While this is a much shorter, less visible scar, it is not a powerful enough procedure to address the loose skin of the entire upper arm. So, it is best suited for patients with mild looseness of the upper arm.
An alternative treatment option for patients who have a mild degree of loose skin at the upper arm is QuantumRF. This can help tighten up the upper arm skin without any incisional scars.
Frequently, Dr. Rodriguez recommends combining an arm lift (brachioplasty) with liposuction. This helps improve the overall safety of the arm lift (brachioplasty) surgery and can help thin the tissues along the incision, making the arms appear more contoured.
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VIEW PHOTOSAn arm lift (brachioplasty) is done under general anesthesia in the operating room, with you fully asleep. Extra skin is removed after performing liposuction on any areas of stubborn fat, if needed. After the extra skin is removed, the skin is stitched back together in several layers.
Dr. Rodriguez does not use drains for her arm lift (brachioplasty) surgeries. The incisions are dressed with Sylke tape and gauze padding applied. Your arms are then gently placed in a compressive garment after the surgery is completed.
Good candidates for an arm lift (brachioplasty) with Dr. Rodriguez are men and women in the Houston area who:
Dr. Abigail Rodriguez blends advanced surgical expertise with refined artistry to create results that look natural, balanced, and enduring. Known for her compassion, transparency, and commitment to patient education and safety, she provides individualized care supported by a state-of-the-art facility, enhanced recovery protocols, and comprehensive follow-up—all designed to ensure you feel cared for, confident, and understood throughout your transformation.
Widely regarded as a top board-certified plastic surgeon in Houston and beyond, Dr. Rodriguez's excellence has been recognized by Newsweek as one of America's Best Plastic Surgeons and by Texas Super Doctors multiple times. She is trusted for her meticulous precision and genuine dedication to helping patients look and feel their most authentic and confident.
You can go home the same day after an arm lift (brachioplasty). When you are in bed or relaxing on the couch, gently prop your arms on a couple of pillows to elevate them. This will help the swelling come down a bit faster. You can shower the day after surgery.
Most patients can return to work about 2 weeks after surgery, though this may vary depending on your job duties.
You will have limited use of your arms, and you should limit overhead reaching and carrying heavy objects during the initial recovery period.
You should refrain from exercise for about 4-6 weeks after surgery. You can ease back into some light cardio exercises around 4 weeks if you are healing well. Exercise with no restrictions can be started after 6 weeks in most cases.
Paying for your procedure shouldn't stand in the way of feeling confident and comfortable in your skin. We offer flexible financing options, including CareCredit® and PatientFi®, to help make your treatment more manageable and accessible.
Our team will guide you through your options and support you during every step of your transformation.
Explore FinancingUnfortunately, a scar is inevitable after an arm lift (brachioplasty). Dr. Rodriguez always does her best to place it so it is not too visible. It is essential to understand that the scar will be visible in certain positions and movements, even in the best of circumstances. The tradeoff for the scar is an improvement in arm contour.
The scar appearance will take 6 months to a year to fully mature and soften. Silicone therapy and protecting the scar from the sun will help it heal as best as possible.
It is essential to maintain your pre-surgical weight during and after your recovery. If your weight fluctuates after surgery, it can stretch the skin on your upper arms again and cause the same initial problem: loose, saggy skin. A stable weight means lasting results after your arm lift (brachioplasty).
Don’t hesitate to contact Dr. Abigail Rodriguez if you’re interested in learning more about arm lift surgery in Houston. We’re here to help you achieve a look that makes you feel more comfortable in your body.
