Mini-Arm Lift in North Denver

This is not a real patient photo. This is an example, and results may vary.
The short answer
Mini-Arm Lift (Mini-Brachioplasty) removes a smaller area of loose skin near the armpit. It may suit patients whose upper-arm laxity is limited enough for a shorter-incision approach. In Northglenn, Dr. John Samas reviews your anatomy, your health history and your goals before recommending a plan.

Overview
What is Mini-Arm Lift (Mini-Brachioplasty)?
Mini-Brachioplasty, or Mini-Arm Lift, is a less invasive surgical procedure designed to address mild to moderate skin laxity in the upper arms. This procedure is ideal for individuals who have a small amount of excess skin, typically confined to the upper inner arm near the armpit, often due to aging or minor weight fluctuations.
A mini arm lift can often be performed under local anesthesia while the patient is awake, allowing for a shorter recovery period. The incision is smaller than that of a traditional arm lift, and it is typically hidden within the natural crease of the armpit to minimize visible scarring. The result is a subtle yet effective improvement in arm contour, providing a more youthful, tightened appearance with minimal downtime.
Key Benefits
What does Mini-Arm Lift (Mini-Brachioplasty) do?
A mini-arm lift tightens and contours the upper arm by removing small amounts of loose skin and refining the arm shape without the longer scar of a full brachioplasty. This procedure is ideal for patients with mild to moderate skin laxity, helping create a more toned, youthful look with a shorter recovery timeline and minimal scarring. It delivers subtle yet noticeable definition, restoring confidence in wearing sleeveless clothing and showing your arms comfortably.
- Tighter, firmer upper arm skin
- Smaller incision and minimal scarring
- Natural, more toned arm contour
- Shorter recovery compared to full arm lift
- Ideal for mild to moderate sagging

Recovery
What is recovery like?
Expect mild swelling, tightness, and soreness for the first few days. Most patients return to daily activities within one week, while exercise and lifting are paused for around 3 to 4 weeks. Compression garments help support healing and improve contour. Results continue to refine over the next few months as swelling settles and tissues heal.
- Light activity in about 1 week
- Compression garment for 3 to 4 weeks
- Avoid heavy lifting and exercise 3 to 4 weeks
- Swelling improves over a few weeks
- Keep arms elevated in the first 48 hours to help reduce swelling
- Final contour visible in about 3 months
FAQ
What do patients often ask?
This page is general information. Candidacy, recovery and what to expect are discussed at your consultation.
Explore
Which options are related?
Guides and comparisons
Service areas
Where do patients travel from?
The office is in Northglenn, on the 120th Avenue corridor just west of I-25. These are some of the areas patients travel in from.


