Can a mini arm lift be performed on the lower portion of the upper arms only? (Photos)

Thank you for your question regarding a mini arm lift limited to the lower portion of the upper arms, just above the elbow. Based on your description and photos, it does appear that your skin laxity is isolated to the lower inner arm, which is a relatively uncommon but treatable pattern—especially in post-weight loss patients.

Yes, it is possible to perform a mini arm lift or a modified short-scar brachioplasty in this area, but it’s important to understand that the incision typically needs to extend slightly beyond the exact area of loose skin. The reason is that the incision must be tapered in both directions to prevent puckering or dog-ears at the ends. Even if the skin laxity seems localized, the surrounding tissue has to be carefully blended for a smooth, natural contour.

In your case, this might mean an incision that spans several inches above the elbow and tapers slightly upward, even if the majority of the correction is focused in the lowest portion of the upper arm. The resulting scar is generally well-concealed along the inner arm and fades over time in most patients.

If you’re looking for the least invasive approach with the shortest scar possible, be sure to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon experienced in body contouring after weight loss. They can assess your skin quality and elasticity in person and help determine if a mini arm lift would give you a natural, long-lasting result without the need for a full brachioplasty.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Yes, what you're describing is actually a very common concern and, in many cases, a mini arm lift or limited-incision brachioplasty can absolutely target just the lower portion of the upper arms — specifically the area near the inner arm, close to the elbow.
Here’s a quick breakdown for you:
Mini Arm Lift for Lower Arm Skin Laxity
• Target Area: Can focus on loose skin confined to the lower part of the upper arm (the "distal" upper arm), especially if it's limited to the last 2–3 inches above the elbow.
• Incision Location: Typically, a short, discreet incision can be made within the natural creases of the arm or just above the elbow area, depending on your anatomy.
• Candidacy: If your skin laxity is mild to moderate and well-localized, you’re likely a good candidate for this more conservative approach.
Benefits
• Smaller scar, often hidden or less noticeable
• Faster recovery compared to a full arm lift
• Avoids the long scar that typically extends from the armpit to the elbow in full brachioplasty
Things to Keep in Mind
• Skin Elasticity: If your skin is too loose, a mini arm lift may not provide adequate tightening, and your surgeon might recommend a slightly longer incision for best results.
• Surgeon Expertise: Not all surgeons offer short-scar arm lifts, so you’ll want to consult with one experienced in tailored, minimal-scar procedures.
• Possibly Combine: Some patients combine this with non-surgical skin tightening (like radiofrequency or laser) to improve results in borderline cases.
I recommend scheduling a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in post-weight loss body contouring. They can evaluate whether a mini lift, a skin-only excision, or possibly a combination of minor lift and skin tightening would be your best option.