Arm lift (brachioplasty) in Turkey: scars, recovery and how long to stay
An arm lift (brachioplasty) removes loose skin and fat from the upper arms, usually after major weight loss. It leaves a scar along the inner arm, takes 2–3 hours under general anaesthetic, and most surgeons plan about a week in Istanbul. Liposuction is often combined.
Updated 30/10/2026 · general information, not medical advice
Key facts
Typical ranges for a healthy adult (sources at the bottom of the page). Your surgeon or dentist sets your own plan after examining you.
What it is
The surgeon removes an ellipse of excess skin and fat from the inner or back of the upper arm, then closes the wound in layers. The scar usually runs from the armpit towards the elbow; a shorter scar near the armpit is possible when looseness is limited.
Techniques
Full brachioplasty
Scar from armpit to elbow; for significant loose skin.
Mini (short-scar) arm lift
Scar hidden near the armpit; for limited looseness.
With liposuction
Removes fat before tightening.
Extended brachioplasty
Continues onto the side of the chest after massive weight loss.
Who it suits
Usually a good candidate
- Loose upper-arm skin after weight loss or ageing
- Stable weight
- Accepting a visible inner-arm scar
Think twice / discuss first
- Mainly fat with good skin (liposuction may be enough)
- Still losing weight
- Smoking
Your stay in Istanbul, step by step
- Day 1Consultation and markings.
- Day 2Surgery (2–3 hours); day case or one night.
- Days 3–6Hotel rest, compression sleeves, arms raised on pillows.
- Days 7–8Check-up before flying.
Recovery timeline
- Weeks 1–2Swelling; avoid lifting the arms above shoulder height.
- Week 2Back to desk work.
- Week 6Exercise usually resumes.
- Months 6–12Scar matures and fades.
Risks and complications
- Visible, sometimes wide scar
- Wound separation
- Seroma
- Numbness of the inner arm
- Swelling of the forearm or hand (usually temporary)
This list is not exhaustive. Your surgeon should explain the risks that apply to you, in writing, before you consent.
Cost: what drives the price
The extent of the lift, any liposuction, the hospital and the package determine the price.
Few Istanbul facilities publish prices for this treatment on their own website, and we only show prices that facilities publish themselves. Ask for a written, itemised quote.
Questions to ask the clinic
- Where will my scar be, and how long?
- Do I need liposuction as well?
- How long do I wear compression sleeves?
- When can I fly and drive?
Clinics in Istanbul for this treatment
These 6 Istanbul facilities from our cosmetic surgery list are among the most searched from the UK. Check with each one that it performs this exact procedure, who the surgeon is, and where it takes place.
Smile Hair Clinic
Hair transplant
Liv Hospital
Multi-specialty hospital · Cosmetic surgery
Istanbul Aesthetic Center
Cosmetic surgery · Hair transplant
Estetik International
Cosmetic surgery · Hair transplant · Dental treatment
Vanity Estetik
Cosmetic surgery
Hisar Intercontinental Hospital
Multi-specialty hospital · Cosmetic surgery
All cosmetic surgery clinics →
Related treatments
Frequently asked questions
How long should I stay in Turkey after an arm lift?
About 7–8 days, until the first check-up.
Will the scar be visible?
Yes, on the inner arm. It fades over 12–18 months but does not disappear.
Can an arm lift be combined with other surgery?
Often with liposuction or a thigh lift after weight loss; longer surgery means more risk.
Sources: ASPS – Arm lift; NHS – Cosmetic surgery abroad (accessed 30/10/2026).