Dr. Shell and his staff are respectful. The staff is awesome and kind. I love the welcome when you come in, and when you leave, they are very helpful. I love the staff and am joyous and happy when I come there. They know what they are doing and are not mean people at all. I recommend my family to go there.
Arm Lift
An arm lift, or brachioplasty, is a transformative body contouring procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the upper arms—restoring tone, shape, and definition. At Shell Cosmetic Surgery Center in Memphis, TN, Dr. Dan H. Shell III performs arm lifts for patients who want to eliminate the sagging “bat wing” appearance that can result from aging, genetics, or significant weight loss. With personalized care, advanced surgical techniques, and an eye for natural beauty, Dr. Shell delivers long-lasting results and restored confidence.
What Is an Arm Lift?
Arm lift surgery addresses loose, hanging skin and stubborn fat in the upper arms that cannot be corrected through diet or exercise. This outpatient procedure reshapes and tightens the arms for a more toned and youthful appearance. Ideal candidates include healthy adults at a stable weight who are non-smokers and are willing to accept some visible scarring for dramatic improvement in contour. Whether your concerns stem from weight loss, aging, or genetics, an arm lift can give you the freedom to wear sleeveless clothing with renewed confidence.
Benefits of Arm Lift Surgery
Patients who undergo brachioplasty at the Shell Cosmetic Surgery Center often experience significant improvements in both appearance and quality of life. The procedure eliminates loose, sagging skin while sculpting a firmer, more defined arm shape. In addition to aesthetic improvement, many individuals find it easier to wear fitted clothing and enjoy increased comfort in everyday activities. Dr. Shell’s meticulous technique effectively makes sure that scarring is as discreet as possible while delivering long-term benefits that align with your goals and lifestyle.
The Surgical Process: Step-by-Step
Every arm lift procedure begins with a personalized consultation, during which Dr. Shell reviews your medical history, evaluates your skin elasticity, and discusses your cosmetic goals. You may undergo preoperative testing—such as bloodwork, EKG, and chest imaging—and be advised to stop smoking or stabilize your weight before surgery. On the day of your procedure, you’ll receive either general anesthesia, depending on your needs.
Dr. Shell marks precise incision lines, typically running along the inner or backside of the arm, extending from the armpit to the elbow. For patients requiring minimal correction, smaller incisions may be used. Liposuction is performed first to reduce fat volume, followed by careful excision of excess skin. Internal sutures are placed to support the newly shaped contour, and external sutures or skin adhesive close the incisions.
Recovery, Aftercare & Results
After surgery, most patients return home the same day. You’ll be instructed to wear compression garments to minimize swelling and support the healing process. Postoperative bruising, swelling, and mild discomfort are expected during the initial phase of recovery and are typically well-managed with prescribed medication. Most patients resume light activities within 2 to 4 weeks, although strenuous lifting and upper body workouts should be avoided for several more weeks. Follow-up visits will monitor your healing and your final results take shape properly.
While some scarring is inevitable, it fades significantly over time and is carefully placed for minimal visibility. With stable weight and proper skin care, the results of your arm lift can last for many years—revealing slimmer, more youthful arms and greater confidence in your appearance.
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Why Choose Dr. Dan Shell III?
Choose Dr. Shell for trusted, personalized cosmetic surgery. His highly regarded clinic specializes in body contouring, facial rejuvenation, and breast enhancement. Discover expert cosmetic solutions that put your beauty and wellness first. Schedule your consultation today!
Professional Credentials:
- MD from University of Mississippi School of Medicine
- Board Certified by American Board of Plastic Surgery
- Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS)
- Member, American Society of Plastic Surgeons
- Member, American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery
- Member, Southeastern Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons
- Over 50 years of surgical experience
- Outstanding Resident Award recipient (1981)
Dr. Shell and his entire staff will forever hold a place in my heart for their kindness, patience, and ability to handle a patient like myself!
From the initial consultation to almost a year later, they all have been a dream! Dr. Shell and his entire staff will forever hold a place in my heart for their kindness, patience, and ability to handle a patient like myself! If no one has said this to you all lately, thank you for everything! My life has forever changed!
Dr. Shell did an abdomen revision for me several years ago. He did such an excellent job and I recommended him to other friends as well
Dr. Shell did an abdomen revision for me several years ago. He did such an excellent job and I recommended him to other friends as well. Thank you again Dr. Shell and staff!
The staff is very friendly and helpful, and the doctor is very experienced and caring
I received a drainless tummy tuck. I am happy with my results so far. I am only 2 months postoperation. I am so happy I chose to stay close to my home rather than travel somewhere farther. I am able to get all the postoperation care that I need. The staff is very friendly and helpful, and the doctor is very experienced and caring. I love my belly button, lol.
I love Dr. Dan Shell and his entire crew! Very professional and knowledgeable about his job
I love Dr. Dan Shell and his entire crew! Very professional and knowledgeable about his job. Whatever he tells you, believe it and follow it, and he’s going to make it happen. I am 6 days post abdominalplasty, and I am in love with my results! Dr. Dan is this BEST!!
Dr. Shell & his staff welcomed me in with open arms
After being turned down by multiple surgeons here in Memphis for a simple removal, Dr. Shell & his staff welcomed me in with open arms. The environment is clean & professional. I felt comfortable and feel like I made a great decision reaching out to him & his staff. I’m soooo happy & relieved right now. Thanks a lot, Dr. Shell & nurse!
Dr. Shell was incredible, and I went from consult to operation in just a little over 24 hours
I had piercings that were embedded in my face and had to be cut out. Dr. Shell was incredible, and I went from consult to operation in just a little over 24 hours. I am very grateful for him and the entire staff at the surgery center. Thank you so much, Dr. Shell.
DR. SHELL YOU ARE THE BEST!!
I love Dr. Shell I had surgery and I was so terrified but in true Dr. Shell fashion he came in made me laugh and the next thing I knew he was done. I’m loving what I see so far still swollen but excited to see the end result. Brandi is great she is always willing to answer questions and to put your mind at ease. No need to go to other states or over seas when we have and outstanding plastic surgeon right in Memphis, TN. DR. SHELL YOU ARE THE BEST!!
Dan Shell did an INCREDIBLE job with my plastic surgery
Dan Shell did an INCREDIBLE job with my plastic surgery. I was super nervous the day of surgery, but everything he said and did made the experience one of the easiest things I had done. He is very knowledgeable and experienced, and has a reason for the ways he does things. It was a bit of a leap of faith to trust him but 10/10 I would do it again. He and his staff have been so helpful and given me all kinds of advice and support. I read complaints of people have to wait to see him – I never once have had this issue.
My healing process has been so, so easy, and the scarring is minimal – not even a factor. I am beyond happy with the work Dan Shell did and would recommend him to anyone.
If you want a place to go where people care about you and look out for your best interests, and best health, go see Dr. Shell
Dr. Shell, and his staff are absolutely amazing. Brandi is hands down the best ever! His nurse is amazing too! Every staff member exceeded my expectations. They sealed the deal in my decision to chose Dr. Shell as my doctor. If you want a place to go where people care about you and look out for your best interests, and best health, go see Dr. Shell.
Love Love Love Dr. Shell & Staff!
Complimentary Treatments
Frequently Asked Questions
An arm lift is a surgical procedure that removes loose skin and excess fat from the upper arms, typically from the armpit to the elbow. It improves tone and definition, especially for individuals who’ve experienced weight loss or aging-related sagging.
You may be a good candidate if you’re a healthy non-smoker with sagging upper arm skin that doesn’t respond to diet or exercise. The best candidates are near their goal weight and understand that scarring is part of the process.
Arm lift procedures typically last between 1.5 and 3 hours, depending on the extent of correction. The surgery is performed in our fully accredited Memphis surgical facility.
Yes, scarring is a normal outcome of an arm lift. However, Dr. Shell places incisions in discreet areas—usually on the inner arm or backside—to reduce visibility. With proper care, scars tend to fade and become less noticeable over time.
To schedule your private arm lift consultation, call us at (901) 761-4844, or visit www.drshellcosmeticsurgery.com/contact to book online.
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