Commonly known as brachioplasty, arm lift surgery is a popular aesthetic procedure for men and women looking to address loose, sagging skin and excess fat along the upper arms. Often caused by significant weight loss or the effects of aging in general, these concerns can disrupt a sleek, well-sculpted contour in the upper arms and lead to the formation of “bat wings.”
While the results of an arm lift can be transformative — providing a leaner and more toned appearance — many individuals interested in the procedure want to know what they can expect when it comes to pricing before committing to surgery. According to renowned and board-certified Philadelphia plastic surgeon David Bottger, MD, the cost of an arm lift can vary considerably based on several key factors. Understanding these elements will help you prepare both financially and emotionally for your surgical journey.
How Much Does an Arm Lift Cost in Philadelphia?
An arm lift ranges from $11,000 to $15,000 at our Philadelphia practice, a significantly more affordable cost estimate when compared to other large cities in the U.S. While many plastic surgeons only publish their personal fee in relation to arm lift costs without including adjunctive expenses, our cost range is inclusive of all fees associated with the procedure — such as the anesthesia fee, surgical facility fee, etc. Major metropolitan areas like Beverly Hills, New York City, and Miami often see slightly higher fees when compared to Philadelphia, so Dr. Bottger is thrilled to offer those in Pennsylvania a more economical means of achieving their body contouring goals.
What Factors Affect the Cost of an Arm Lift?
Several factors can influence the overall cost of your arm lift. The extent of the procedure is one of the biggest considerations, as patients who only require limited skin tightening often pay less than those who require a more extensive arm lift addressing both skin and fat removal. In general, cost factors include:
- The surgical technique necessary to achieve your goals (full brachioplasty, short-scar arm lift, etc.)
- The severity of your concerns, which will inform the length/type of incision
- Whether liposuction is performed simultaneously to further resculpt your upper arms
- The addition of any post-weight loss skin tightening options, such as a thigh lift, breast lift, or tummy tuck
Arm lift costs can also vary based on the surgical facility, the type of anesthesia administered, and whether complementary procedures are performed at the same time. Pre-operative testing, post-surgical garments, and follow-up appointments may also affect the final cost. You and Dr. Bottger will go over your personalized quote based on your unique needs in person.
Is an Arm Lift Covered By Insurance?
Since an arm lift is considered an aesthetic procedure, insurance generally does not cover the costs. Most insurance companies classify brachioplasty as elective surgery, meaning it is performed for cosmetic rather than medical reasons.
Is Financing Available for Arm Lift Surgery?
For patients concerned about affordability, plastic surgery financing options through CareCredit® can make arm lift surgery more accessible. Through third-party financing, qualified patients can make low monthly payments with little to no interest. These programs allow you to spread the cost of your surgery over manageable installments, making it easier to pursue your goals without the burden of a large upfront payment. Please call our office if you have any questions about financing.
Dr. David Bottger is fully committed to helping those local to Philadelphia as well as out-of-town patients understand what they can expect from arm lift surgery — from the costs associated with the procedure to recovery instructions and more. Contact Dr. Bottger today at our practice to schedule a consultation or to speak to our office about arm lift costs in further detail.