Arm Lift in Albany, NY

Conveniently located to serve Albany, Schenectady, Latham, & Troy.

Arm lift surgery addresses loose, sagging skin on the upper arms (often called “bat wings”) that remains after significant weight loss or develops due to aging. An arm lift in Albany at The Plastic Surgery Group can be used to tighten and contour your arms to restore a more youthful and sculpted appearance. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Susan M. Gannon performs this transformative procedure to help patients feel more confident in sleeveless clothing.

woman with raised arm showing smooth toned underarm representing arm lift results

What Is an Arm Lift?

An arm lift, medically known as brachioplasty, is a surgical technique to remove excess skin and tissue from the upper arms. The underlying supportive tissue is tightened, and the arm is reshaped to create smoother, more defined contours.

Dr. Gannon often combines brachioplasty with liposuction to eliminate stubborn fat deposits and further improve results. Arm lifts are frequently performed as part of a comprehensive body contouring plan alongside procedures such as the thigh lift, tummy tuck, or other treatments.

Am I a Good Candidate For Arm Lift Surgery?

Ideal arm lift patients have sagging skin on their upper arms that does not respond to diet and exercise. Patients who have lost substantial weight and are bothered by the resulting loose skin often achieve excellent results with this procedure. They must already be at or near a healthy BMI.

You may not be a suitable candidate if you have significant medical conditions that could impair healing, if you smoke, or if you plan to lose additional weight. Dr. Gannon will evaluate your individual situation during your consultation to determine whether arm lift surgery is right for you.

The Procedure

Brachioplasty is typically performed on an outpatient basis under general anesthesia. The procedure usually takes 1-2 hours to complete.

Dr. Gannon begins by making incisions on the underside of the arms, typically extending from near the armpit down toward the elbow. The length and pattern of the incisions depend on the amount of skin being removed. Through these incisions, Dr. Gannon removes the excess skin and tissue, and then repositions and tightens the remaining skin to create smoother, firmer contours.

Once the desired upper arm shape is achieved, Dr. Gannon closes the incisions with sutures and applies bandages to support the arms during initial healing.

Arm Lift Before and After photo by Douglas Hargrave, MD of The Plastic Surgery Group in Albany, NY

The Procedure

Brachioplasty is typically performed on an outpatient basis under general anesthesia. The procedure usually takes 1-2 hours to complete.

Dr. Gannon begins by making incisions on the underside of the arms, typically extending from near the armpit down toward the elbow. The length and pattern of the incisions depend on the amount of skin being removed. Through these incisions, Dr. Gannon removes the excess skin and tissue, and then repositions and tightens the remaining skin to create smoother, firmer contours.

Once the desired upper arm shape is achieved, Dr. Gannon closes the incisions with sutures and applies bandages to support the arms during initial healing.

After Your Arm Lift in Albany, NY

Following your arm lift procedure, you may experience some mild discomfort, which can be managed with prescribed medication. Swelling in the treatment area is normal and usually subsides within a couple of weeks.

Most patients can return to work within one week, though you should avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting during this time. Dr. Gannon will provide specific instructions on caring for your incisions and gradually restarting daily activities. Most patients can resume exercise routines within a few weeks after surgery.

Benefits of Arm Lift Surgery

  • Eliminates loose, sagging skin on the upper arms
  • Creates firmer, more toned arm contours
  • Improves confidence in sleeveless and short-sleeved clothing
  • Provides long-lasting results with proper weight maintenance
  • Enhances overall body proportions

I can’t recommend this group enough. All of the nurses, the front desk staff, the facility and Dr.Gannon have been nothing short of amazing. I have never had an issue getting questions answered, getting in contact with anyone, great communication and such a great experience all around. I went for a lift and augmentation and it was truly such an easy process. I recommend to everyone!!!

-Kate E.

Lift Cost in the Capital Region?

The cost of arm lift surgery varies based on several factors, including the extent of correction needed, whether additional procedures are performed simultaneously, and the specifics of your surgical plan. During your initial consultation, Dr. Gannon will evaluate your needs and provide a detailed price estimate tailored to your individual treatment plan.

Arm Lift FAQs

Is the cost of arm lift surgery covered by insurance?

In most cases, the cost of arm lift surgery is not covered by insurance. But you should contact your insurance company to make sure and discuss this with our team at The Plastic Surgery Group.

Can the sagging skin come back?

Arm lift results are generally long-lasting, and the extra skin that was removed will not grow back. However, significant weight gain, natural aging, or additional loss of skin elasticity over time can cause new sagging to develop.

Contact Us For More Information

If you’re interested in learning more about receiving an arm lift in Albany, New York, schedule a consultation with Dr. Susan M. Gannon at The Plastic Surgery Group. During your visit, Dr. Gannon will assess your concerns, discuss your goals, and create a plan to help you achieve the sculpted, youthful arms you truly want.

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What Our Customers Are Saying

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Kate Emma profile picture
Kate Emma
August 8, 2026
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I can’t recommend this group enough. All of the nurses, the front desk staff, the facility and Dr.Gannon have been nothing short of amazing. I have never had an issue getting questions answered, getting in contact with anyone, great communication and such a great experience all around. I went for a lift and augmentation and it was truly such an easy process. I recommend to everyone!!!
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Melissa Kakos
June 24, 2026
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Nurse karen does a great job on my dysport. She is patient and makes a natural look. Only 12 per unit.
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Ella Ruff
May 24, 2026
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Dr Gannon is an excellent doctor, caring, kind, listens to you and follows through with your care and concerns!
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Lori TessieroSemkiw
March 15, 2026
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Staff is friendly, the place is spotless and Dr Gannon is the best! I had breast cancer and I have one of the prettiest boobs now! Unfortunately, nothing could be done with the radiated breast. Now on to the abdomen! I’m so excited. Dr Gannon is not only the best in her field, she is truly an artist of the body!
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Joe A
December 29, 2025
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Excellent
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Christine H
February 17, 2025
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Recently I had a breast reduction surgery by Dr. Fournier. While still in the healing phase I can see the results are positively physically life changing! They look amazing too! Wonderful doctor, down to earth, also the nurses and office staff were kind, accommodating and knowledgeable. Thank you.
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Casey Y
September 15, 2024
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The experience I had with Dr Gannon is beyond words. I had been trying for YEARS to get a reduction. She really took the time to listen to me. I felt so comfortable with her skills. It's been over 2 months since I had surgery and I could cry I am so happy with my results and the care I received from Dr. Gannon and everyone at the Plastic Surgery Group. I wouldn't go anywhere else.
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Joe
September 13, 2024
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I would just like to echo what Blake said. I too had Dr. Fournier do an otoplasty a little over a year ago now and he did an incredible job! I could not be happier! His bedside manner was great and was very receptive to me having local instead of general anesthesia (which I asked if it was possible to do). Additionally, everyone else in the office was very kind and welcoming! Overall 100/10
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Margaret Bruce
September 4, 2024
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Outstanding staff and service. Timely and compassionate corrective care when needed emergency surgery for my young one. Clean and lovely interior. They were true lifesavers and did an excellent job.
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Ashley
July 23, 2024
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Dr. Gannon did an awesome job with my surgery and I couldn’t be happier! Her scheduler, Tabitha was super sweet, patient and answered all my questions, making me feel at ease. I had talked to a few different schedulers before her, but she really stood out. Overall, it was a fantastic experience. Thanks, Tabitha and Dr. Gannon!
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Katy K
June 13, 2024
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My 1.5 year old son had a large cut on his forehead that was 5 days old, and still bleeding after already seeing both an urgent care and an ER. We went to see Briana Benson, PA at the Plastic Surgery Group and she cleaned up the wound, used local anesthetic, and the placed 4 sutures all in the office with my husband and I were holding our squirming son. She has an amazing way with kids, and she was able to be so confident, professional, and fast when doing this. It was also a precise suture, and will minimize scaring. If I could give her more than 5 stars, I would. Hopefully, we will never need a plastics office again for our little one, but if we ever do, we will surely be returning.
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Rob Morganbesser
April 25, 2024
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My wife and I went for the first time and, from entry to departure were very pleased. The admittance clerk was very polite and efficient. We saw PA Briana Benson. She was very attentive and informative. I had an in office procedure done and it went very well and easy. We were both pleased with our visit.
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Kathy Hazeltine
April 25, 2024
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Had Surgery performed yesterday by Dr. Gannon in the office yesterday. I was so nervous about the procedure and Dr. Gannon and her incredible office staff completely put me at ease. I highly recommend Dr. Gannon and the facility! A completely pleasant experience from start to finish. Thank you Dr. Gannon, Tabitha, the nurses who assisted, and all office staff!
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Jennifer Spaulding
December 31, 2023
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Great staff. Great doctors. I've had a breast reduction and tummy tuck here. Great experience from start to finish. The staff, the nurses, and the doctors are so nice and personable.
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Blake
August 28, 2023
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Dr. Fournier did an incredible job with my Otoplasty, results are better than I could have imagined. He is extremely patient and kind and took time to answer every question I had. Thank you Dr. Fournier for these beautiful results and for taking such good care of me!
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Lisa McCormick
March 20, 2023
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RN Karen Ryan-Hart, excellent provider, professional. I drive 2.5 hours to see her and every visit is well worth it.
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kkh
January 19, 2023
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Wouldn’t trust any other practice but this one to get anything done. I love the girls at the spa and the services are amazing. I’ve seen Dr.Hargrave over the years and he’s so easy going and professional. My results have been amazing which is why I keep coming back to get little things done
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P J (Phil In The USA)
May 10, 2022
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Wonderful staff and service, clean and beautiful facility. Recommend going there for your consultation
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Lisa “Luminisa” Stramiello
November 27, 2021
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Dr. Hargrave is incredible. The nicest, most genuine doctor. I am so pleased with my experience and results thus far with him.
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Janay Grady
May 8, 2021
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This place is wonderful all the staff are extremely nice and make you feel at ease and comfortable I will highly recommend the plastic surgery group