Dr. Orestes Fernández specialist in body contouring
Surgeon specializing in body contouring
Medical license no. 4304469
Leading doctor in brachioplasty.
The doctor sees patients in BarcelonaView medical profile
Brachioplasty: arm lift
Thinking about having an arm lift?
Brachioplasty removes the excess arm skin that appears after significant weight loss or with age, when the problem is sagging rather than fat.
From: 7.500 € VAT not included
Excellent · 844 Google reviews
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Surgery duration:
2 to 3 hours
Recovery time:
7 to 10 days
Synapta® protocol:
Included in Barcelona
Anesthesia
General
Hospital stay:
Outpatient or 1 night
Social life:
10 to 14 days
What is an arm lift (brachioplasty)?
An arm lift, or brachioplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to remove excess skin and fat from the inner arms, correct sagging and restore a firmer, slimmer and more proportionate contour.
It is especially indicated when, as a result of significant weight loss, aging or body changes, the skin loses elasticity and hangs, creating an aged or unbalanced appearance. The aim is to improve the shape of the arm, tighten the skin and restore a younger, firmer look, with a natural result in keeping with each person's anatomy.
Types of arm lift
Mini or limited arm lift
Indicated for mild cases of sagging. The incision is shorter and located in the armpit, and it is used when there is little excess skin. It improves firmness with a more discreet scar.
Full arm lift
This is the most common type. It is indicated when there is significant sagging and excess skin along the whole inner arm. It allows a complete redefinition of the arm contour, with a notable improvement in firmness and shape.
Arm lift with liposuction
It combines the removal of localized fat with the resection of excess skin. It is indicated when, in addition to sagging, there are fat deposits that alter the shape of the arm.
How much does brachioplasty cost and what does it include?
7.500 €
VAT not included
An arm lift at Instituto de Benito starts from €7,500, varying according to the technique used, the extent of the area to be treated, the operating time and the tests and follow-up included, and is tailored to each patient.
What the treatment plan includes:
- Specialist physician's fees
- Fees for the rest of the medical team
- Materials specified in the quote
- Operating room and hospitalization
- Anesthesia
- Private room stay if required
- Medication during the hospital stay
- Wound care with the nursing team
- Follow-up visits with the specialist
- Preoperative tests (blood work, ECG, X-ray, etc.)
What is not included:
- Assessments or clearances from other specialists, if needed
- Medication after hospital discharge
- Post-surgical garments (compression sleeves, etc.), unless otherwise specified
- Complementary recovery treatments (lymphatic drainage, physiotherapy, laser, etc.)
- Scar care treatments (silicone dressings, laser, etc.), unless otherwise specified
- Associated liposuction or other procedures not covered in the initial quote
- Costs arising from medical complications not attributable to the surgical procedure
- Reoperations or touch-up surgeries not initially planned
- Additional unplanned hospital stays
- Travel, accommodation or meals for the patient and companions
- Sick leave, certificates or additional administrative paperwork
- Any material or procedure not expressly specified in the quote
You can finance this procedure at 0% interest. See the options on our financing page.
*Prices valid in 2026. The exact price is given after the visit, once the surgeon has assessed your case.
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Arm lift, explained on video
What is the arm lift process like?
The process begins with an incision on the inner or back of the arm (which may be limited to the armpit or extend to the elbow, depending on the excess skin) so that the surgeon can surgically remove the surplus skin tissue and localized fat. After tightening the deep fascia to restore muscle firmness, the remaining skin is stretched and meticulously sutured to redefine the contour of the triceps, finishing with a compression bandage that helps the tissues adhere to their new position during healing.
Personalized medical assessment
The consultation takes place with the surgeon who will perform your operation, who analyzes the degree of sagging and the quality of the skin and defines the most suitable technique in your case. A payment of €80 is required in advance to book the appointment. If you cannot travel, the first visit can also be done by video call with the surgeon who would operate on you: it costs €50, which is deducted if you decide to have surgery.
Preparing for the surgery
Before surgery, the procedure is carefully planned, defining the type of arm lift (mini, full or with liposuction), the extent of the correction and the most suitable surgical strategy.
The surgery
The arm lift is performed in accredited operating rooms by a specialist with more than 40 years of experience in body surgery, removing excess skin and, if necessary, localized fat, to restore a firmer, more harmonious contour.
Comfortable recovery
After surgery, a gradual recovery phase begins. In Barcelona we apply the Synapta® protocol to make the post-op period more manageable.
Start seeing yourself the way you want to feel.
An arm lift lets you say goodbye to sagging and regain firmer, slimmer and more proportionate arms, improving both your appearance and your confidence.
Arm lift with Synapta®: an easier recovery
For years, this surgery has been associated with a recovery marked by a feeling of tightness, swelling and some discomfort in the treated area. However, advances in medical protocols now make it possible to approach recovery from a more advanced perspective.
At Instituto de Benito we apply Synapta®, a protocol designed to support the body through its recovery process after surgery, helping to make the experience more manageable and controlled.
How is recovery after surgery improved?
Beyond the conventional use of medication, this approach focuses on the body's neurophysiological response after surgery. Through specific techniques, it aims to modulate inflammation, reduce tissue tension and improve the body's adaptation to the surgical change.
- Control of tissue tension: After surgery, the tissues reorganize and can create a feeling of tightness. The protocol helps reduce this tension, allowing a more gradual adaptation.
- Improved tissue environment: Tissue oxygenation and drainage are promoted, which helps to reduce initial swelling and optimize the healing process.
- Gradual, functional recovery: The goal is not to speed things up artificially, but to support the body so that recovery is more balanced, allowing you to return to your daily routine gradually and safely.
These protocols are part of a process in which post-operative well-being matters as much as the aesthetic design. Each case is assessed individually to tailor the instructions to each patient.
*Synapta® is included in surgeries performed in Barcelona.
Carlos Alsina
Before and after surgery in brachioplasty
Are you a good candidate for brachioplasty?
Brachioplasty is indicated for people who want to eliminate sagging and excess skin on the arms and regain a firmer, slimmer and more proportionate contour, when these changes cannot be corrected with exercise, diet or non-surgical treatments.
It is a treatment aimed at improving the appearance of the arms and restoring firmness and proportion to the upper body, with a result in keeping with each person's anatomy.
It is especially suitable if:
- 01
You have lost a lot of weight
And you have excess hanging skin on your arms that does not retract naturally.
- 02
You notice sagging on the inner arms
When the skin has lost elasticity over time or through body changes.
- 03
The shape of your arms bothers you when you get dressed
If you avoid short-sleeved or sleeveless clothes because you feel self-conscious about how your arms look.
- 04
You are in good general health and at a stable weight
Brachioplasty gives better results in people with a stable weight and realistic expectations.
- 05
You want a definitive, long-lasting result
When you are looking for a real, stable surgical solution for sagging arms.
- 06
You are looking for an aesthetic and functional improvement
To look better and, above all, to feel more comfortable with your body and your movements.
Arm lift before and after photos
Maria, 52, Madrid
Arm lift
Clara, 62, Barcelona
Arm lift
Verónica, 63, Madrid
Arm lift
Verónica, 63, Madrid
Arm lift
Mari Paz, 56, Barcelona
Arm lift
Manuela, 47, Barcelona
Arm lift
Live outside Barcelona or Madrid?
You can also have your arm lift with us
Start with a video consultation with our surgeons. The surgeon who will operate on you assesses your case, answers your questions and gives you an exact, personalised quote. No travel needed for the first visit.
50 €
video consultation with your surgeon
Dr. Orestes Fernández
Body contouring
Dr. Antonio Martínez
Facial and body surgery
What are the risks of an arm lift?
The scar is what you need to decide on before surgery
This surgery trades excess skin for a scar that runs along the inner arm, from the armpit toward the elbow. It is placed where it is least visible with the arm at rest, but it can be seen with short sleeves and when you raise your arm, and it is permanent.
It is the main cause of dissatisfaction when it has not been properly explained, which is why the exact path of the scar is shown in consultation before you decide. If there is little excess skin, liposuction alone, without a scar, may make more sense.
Expected effects
- Swelling of the arms, forearms and hands during the first few weeks.
- A feeling of tightness when stretching the arm above the head.
- Bruising and areas of hardness along the scar.
- Areas of reduced sensation on the inner arm, which recover gradually.
Less common risks
- Seroma: a buildup of fluid that may need to be drained in the clinic.
- Partial opening of the wound in the armpit crease, which is the area under the most tension.
- A widened, hypertrophic or keloid scar, more likely in this area than in others.
- Persistent swelling of the arm or hand.
- Asymmetry between the two arms.
- The need to revise the scar later on.
Who is not a suitable candidate: contraindications for arm lift
| Contraindication | Reason |
|---|---|
| Active smoking | It compromises healing and the blood supply to the tissues. You are asked to stop four weeks before and four weeks after. |
| Unstable weight | The result lasts if your weight stays the same. It is advisable to come to surgery with a weight that has been stable for months. |
| Not accepting the scar | The scar is unavoidable and permanent. If you cannot accept it, this surgery is not the right indication. |
| Uncontrolled systemic disease | Uncontrolled diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart or respiratory disease: these are stabilized before surgery. |
| Clotting disorders that have not been evaluated | These require prior assessment. Anticoagulants must not be stopped on your own initiative: the regimen is adjusted by the doctor who prescribes them. |
| Active infection, local or systemic | It is postponed until the infection has fully resolved. |
Our medical team for brachioplasty
Instituto de Benito is a reference in brachioplasty (arm lift) and in body contouring surgery, with more than 40 years of experience and thousands of patients treated.
The team tailors each treatment to the patient, with the aim of a natural result.
Dr. Orestes Fernández specialist in body contouring
Surgeon specializing in body contouring
«An arm lift is designed to improve firmness and redefine the contour of the arms when there is excess skin or sagging»
View medical profile
Dr. Antonio Martínez Murillo, specialist in facial, body, and breast surgery
Surgeon specializing in facial, body, and breast surgery
«Brachioplasty restores the harmony of the arm through a precise technique aimed at removing excess skin and improving…»
View medical profile
Dr. Lucrecia Villanueva body and breast surgeon
Specialist surgeon in body and breast
«An arm lift seeks to restore firmness and proportion»
View medical profile
Commitment to arm surgery
We have more than 40 years of experience in plastic and cosmetic surgery, with extensive specialization in body surgery. Over the course of our career we have performed more than 2,000 operations, which allows us to offer safe, effective procedures with harmonious, natural results.
We prioritize the personalization of each treatment, adapting to each patient's needs and characteristics and offering comprehensive post-op follow-up to ensure an optimal recovery and long-lasting results.
Where to have an arm lift
Book your arm lift consultation
The first step is not surgery: it is a consultation with the surgeon who would perform your procedure. They will assess your case, answer your questions and, after the visit, give you the exact price.
The first consultation costs €80, which is deducted from the cost of surgery if you decide to have your procedure with us. You can also call us.
Related treatments
Brachioplasty frequently asked questions
What results can I expect?
Firmer, slimmer arms with a much more defined contour. The excess skin is gone and the shape of the arm becomes more proportionate. Full recovery comes between 3 and 6 months, once the swelling has gone and the tissues have fully adapted.
Is an arm lift painful?
Discomfort is usually mild to moderate and is well controlled with the prescribed medication. In Barcelona we apply the Synapta® protocol to make the post-op period more manageable.
Will there be visible scars?
Brachioplasty does leave a scar, but it is strategically placed on the inner arm so that it is as discreet as possible. Over time, the scar gradually improves.
What are the risks of brachioplasty?
It is a safe operation when performed in specialized centers by accredited surgeons, but like all surgery, it carries some potential risks.
At Instituto de Benito, safety is the priority and all procedures are performed under strict medical protocols.
Most common risks (and generally mild)
- Swelling and bruising: normal during the first few weeks.
- Pain or a feeling of tightness or pressure: temporary and controllable with medication.
- Seroma: a buildup of fluid that can be reabsorbed or easily drained.
- Temporary changes in sensation.
- Minor contour irregularities while the tissues are adapting.
Uncommon risks
- Post-operative infection.
- Delayed healing or small stitches opening.
- Adverse reaction to anesthesia.
- More marked asymmetries or the need for a touch-up in specific cases.
How long do the results last?
The results are very long-lasting as long as you maintain a stable weight and a healthy lifestyle. The skin that is removed does not come back.
When can I exercise or go in the sun?
- Light activity: from 10–15 days.
- Intense exercise: after 4–6 weeks.
- Sun: avoid it on the scar for several months, or use high sun protection.
Can an arm lift be combined with other surgeries?
Yes. It can be combined with liposculpture, a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) or other body surgeries, always subject to medical assessment.
What happens if I lose or gain weight afterward?
Moderate weight changes do not usually alter the result significantly. Maintaining a stable weight helps preserve the effect of the surgery.
How long does full recovery take?
Most patients can lead a fairly normal life within 10–15 days, although full recovery and scar maturation continue for several months. Full recovery is assessed at around 3–6 months.
Can I finance my brachioplasty?
Yes, you can finance your brachioplasty in a convenient and accessible way. At our center we offer different options so that you can have the treatment without worrying about paying the full amount up front. We offer interest-free financing for up to 12 months, an ideal option for splitting the cost into monthly installments with no increase in price. We also offer the possibility of extending the financing up to 48 months, adapting the installments to your needs and circumstances.
Where we do it
Average rating: 4.8 / 5
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Cristina Betancor
Googlehace 12 meses
Encantada con el resultado y con el trato recibido por la doctora Marina y todo su equipo. Muy profesionales, atentos y cercanos en todo momento.
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Nora Haxha
Googlehace 1 año
Such a lovely team and experience! From my first visit to the online follow-ups, everyone has been so kind, caring, and professional. Dr. Neagu and Dr. García are truly exceptional I couldn’t feel in better hands. Thank you for everything! 🤍
Teresa Pacho
Googlehace 1 año
Trato profesional y cercano. Excelencia en la cirujana Marina Garcia y todo el equipo. Honestidad en la comunicación.
Dolores Peñalver
Googlehace 1 año
Mi experiencia en el Instituto de Benito ha sido excelente. Agradecer a la Doctora María Gijón y a todo su equipo por su gran profesionalidad y por ayudar a los clientes ante cualquier duda o aclaración
Marisa Canseco
Googlehace 1 año
El doctor Fernández y su enfermera Cristina son profesionales excelentes y dan un estupendo trato. Los recomiendo al 100%. Los resultados se ajustan totalmente a lo que se comprometen.
Sandra TB
Googlehace 1 año
Agradecer enormemente a la Doctora Marina por el trato durante todo el proceso y por el resultado final. Mi experiencia ha sido maravillosa. Agradecer también a Montse por hacer que esto sea posible.
julia juan fornes
Googlehace 1 año
La Dra Marina Garcia muy profesional y transmite muchísima confianza desde el primer momento.
Maragda L
Googlehace 9 meses
Mi experiencia ha sido de lo mejor, me he sentido totalmente cuidada en todo el proceso de mi operación desde Mónica siempre atenta a mis consultas, hasta las chicas de los masajes y cómo no, con el doctor Orestes Fernández con quién me he sentido acompañada en toda la operación y sobre todo recuperación. Sin duda...
Paula Roldan Martinez-checa
Googlehace 11 meses
La Doctora Marina Garcia es totalmente un acierto. Sinceridad desde el primer momento, te escucha y te aconseja conforme tu idea y de manera que quede lo más natural y bonito posible, siendo siempre realistas. El resultado totalmente bonito, más natural y mejor de lo que incluso yo me pensaba. Una recuperación súper...
Susi Rodríguez Suárez
Googlehace 1 año
La Dra. Marina es maravillosa. Un equipo de profesionales de 10.
Carlos rubio miguel
Googlehace 1 año
Profesionales excelentes con un trato personal inmejorable. Muy recomendado!
Soraya Araujo Criollo
Googlehace 1 año
La profesionalidad de todo el equipo hace que te sientas segura a la hora de pasar por quirófano. Además en mi caso llevo yendo con Eva desde hace casi 8 años y no puedo estar más contenta.
Maria Roig
Googlehace 1 año
Encantada con todos los profesionales de IdB, especialmente con la Dra Marina, Julia y Mónica. No he podido estar en mejores manos. Gracias por todo. Muy feliz con el resultado!
Ana Alvarez Soto
Googlehace 1 año
Mi experience en Instituto de Benito ha sido excelente. El Dr Neagu es una persona estupenda, gran profesional y el trato es entrañable. Tiene un equipo muy competente trabajando con él y siempre me han acompañado durante todo el proceso de una manera impecable.
Ari Li
Googlehace 1 año
Una buena experiencia en la clínica de Benito,excelente personal y muy buenos profesionales. Estoy contenta🥰