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Gain the Confidence to Show Off Your Arms

Significant weight loss, weight fluctuations, and the natural aging process can all cause fat deposits and loose skin to accumulate under the arms, creating what's commonly called the "bat-wing" effect. This can be distressing and embarrassing, particularly when the loose tissue flops or dangles during ordinary movements like waving or reaching. Many patients find themselves reaching for long sleeves year-round, even during workouts, just to hide the appearance of their arms. Arm lift surgery in Tyson's Corner offers a lasting solution to this common concern.

woman holding her arm above her head

What Is an Arm Lift?

An arm lift, also known as brachioplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to correct loose, sagging skin and excess fat in the upper arms. During the procedure, excess skin and fat are removed, and the remaining tissue is tightened to reshape the contour of the arm. The result is a firmer, more toned, and proportionate appearance, one that can restore confidence and open up your wardrobe options.

The Benefits of an Arm Lift

  • Eliminates Excess Skin and Fat: Arm lift surgery directly addresses the loose, hanging tissue responsible for the "bat-wing" appearance.
  • Creates a More Toned Contour: Tightening the underlying tissue results in a firmer, more sculpted arm shape.
  • Long-Lasting Results: With a stable weight, the results of an arm lift can be long-lasting.
  • Complements an Active Lifestyle: A more toned arm contour can make patients feel more confident during exercise and other physical activities.
  • Restores Confidence in Sleeveless Clothing: Many patients feel comfortable wearing sleeveless tops and dresses again after this procedure.
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Is an Arm Lift Right for Me?

An arm lift may be the right option if the undersides of your arms appear loose, full, or floppy due to weight loss, weight fluctuations, or aging. You may be a good candidate if you:

  • Have loose, hanging skin between the armpit and elbow
  • Have experienced significant weight loss or notable weight fluctuations
  • Are at a stable weight and in good overall health
  • Have realistic expectations about your results and the location of resulting scars

During your consultation for an arm lift at our Tysons Corner office, Dr. Chang will evaluate your arms and discuss your goals to determine whether an arm lift is the right procedure for you.

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The Arm Lift Process What to Expect

1. Private Consultation

Your provider will evaluate the degree of excess skin and fat in your upper arms and discuss your goals to determine your candidacy.

2. Personalized Surgical Plan

Your provider will determine the appropriate incision pattern and technique based on the extent of correction needed.

3. Procedure Day

Arm lift surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia and takes about one to two hours to complete.

4. Initial Healing Phase

You'll receive detailed aftercare instructions, including how to care for your incisions as you begin your recovery.

Dr. Christopher Chang & Dr. Hillary Jenny

Meet Our Plastic Surgeons

Every patient at Congressional Plastic Surgery is cared for by board-certified surgeons who bring decades of combined training and expertise to every procedure we offer.

Dr. Christopher Chang is a double board-certified plastic surgeon with training from Harvard College, NYU School of Medicine, and Yale-New Haven Hospital, along with a fellowship in advanced craniofacial surgery from Johns Hopkins Hospital. He founded Congressional Plastic Surgery in 2015 and continues to perform a high volume of surgical and aesthetic procedures.

Dr. Hillary Jenny is a board-eligible plastic surgeon who trained at MIT and earned her MD and MPH from the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. She completed her residency at Johns Hopkins Hospital and a fellowship in aesthetic surgery in Beverly Hills, bringing specialized expertise in natural, individualized results.

Your Arm Lift Results and Recovery


Most patients experience swelling and discomfort in the days following surgery, which improves over the first couple of weeks with rest and prescribed medication. Many patients return to light activities within one to two weeks, with more strenuous activity resuming around four to six weeks. Final results become more apparent as swelling fully resolves, revealing a firmer, more contoured arm.

Testimonials What Our Patients Say

5 out of 5 stars

Dr. Chang is the best cosmetic surgeon I've come across.

"Dr. Chang is the best cosmetic surgeon I've come across. I thoroughly trust him, and his work is absolutely impeccable. Besides being a talented and professional surgeon, he is...

"Dr. Chang is the best cosmetic surgeon I've come across. I thoroughly trust him, and his work is absolutely impeccable. Besides being a talented and professional surgeon, he is so friendly with a great sense of humor, and no matter how small your concern is, he takes it just as seriously, listens, and offers his advice. His office is the opposite of an intimidating plastic surgery practice- everyone is so friendly, easy-going, and makes you feel very comfortable. I've recommended him to so many friends already!"

Sanja B.
5 out of 5 stars

He is a consummate professional, and his integrity and personal manner are outstanding.

"My husband had a cyst that was supposed to be a simple removal procedure. It was very deep and much more complicated to remove than initially diagnosed by a dermatologist. Dr. ...

"My husband had a cyst that was supposed to be a simple removal procedure. It was very deep and much more complicated to remove than initially diagnosed by a dermatologist. Dr. Chang and his support staff spent much time and effort to safely remove the entire cyst intact. His care and concern for his patients' best interests and health are exceptional. This was our second experience with Dr. Chang after my husband had a skin graft. He is a consummate professional, and his integrity and personal manner are outstanding."

Ellen S.
5 out of 5 stars

I am very pleased with the results.

"Highly recommend Dr. Christopher Chang. I had a relatively minor procedure that nonetheless required an 'artist's eye,' and I am very pleased with the results. Dr. Chang's mann...

"Highly recommend Dr. Christopher Chang. I had a relatively minor procedure that nonetheless required an 'artist's eye,' and I am very pleased with the results. Dr. Chang's manner will both put you at ease and inspire your confidence in him. It is immediately obvious that he cares about and is dedicated to his work. The surgical facility was spotless, modern, and comfortable. The after-care has been excellent, and his office staff (both locations I visited) were friendly and professional."

Kevin R.
5 out of 5 stars

I would HIGHLY recommend you as a doctor!

Hi Dr. Chang, I am doing very well, and I would HIGHLY recommend you as a doctor!

Female (51, mommy makeover)
5 out of 5 stars

Thank you so much!

I went back to work today, and someone complimented me, saying I looked tiny! Lol, totally made my morning. Thank you so much!

Female (30, tummy tuck)
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Why Choose Congressional Plastic Surgery in Tysons Corner?

  • Expert Arm Lift Surgeon You Can Trust: Dr. Christopher Chang brings extensive training and experience to every arm lift procedure, delivering natural-looking, proportionate results.
  • A Personalized Surgical Approach: Our Tysons Corner team evaluates your specific anatomy to recommend the technique best suited to your degree of excess skin and fat.
  • Convenient Tysons Corner Location: Our Vienna, VA, office offers easy access for patients throughout Northern Virginia seeking expert arm lift surgery.
  • A Trusted, Established Practice: Backed by Dr. Chang's double board certification and years of clinical experience, our team brings the same precision to arm lift surgery as we do to every procedure we offer.

Arm Lift Frequently Asked Questions

Will an arm lift leave visible scarring?

Incisions are typically placed along the inner or back portion of the arm to minimize visibility, though some scarring is expected. Scars generally fade and become less noticeable over time.

How much excess skin can an arm lift remove?

The amount of skin removed depends on the extent of skin laxity present. Your provider will discuss the expected results based on your individual anatomy during your consultation.

Can an arm lift be combined with liposuction?

Yes. Many patients combine an arm lift with liposuction to address both loose skin and stubborn fat during the same procedure.

Is an arm lift only for patients who've lost significant weight?

No. While significant weight loss is a common cause of arm laxity, some patients pursue an arm lift due to the natural aging process or genetics that affect skin elasticity.

How long do arm lift results typically last?

Arm lift results are generally long-lasting, particularly when you maintain a stable weight, although the natural aging process will continue over time.

Will I need to avoid using my arms after surgery?

You'll receive specific activity restrictions from your provider, which generally include avoiding strenuous arm movements and heavy lifting for several weeks following surgery.

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Schedule a consultation at our Vienna, VA or Chevy Chase, MD office. We'll take it from there.

Schedule a Consultation Give Congressional Plastic Surgery a phone call at (888) 413-3920
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