Arm lift vs lipo: what would be the best option to tone my arms? (Photos)

You need a formal evaluation by a licensed plastic surgeon and expert in arm lifting to determine what is best for you and your goals.
I treat problems of the upper arm in different ways depending on the nature of the problem. For those with firm, healthy, elastic upper arm skin, I use liposuction cosmetic surgery to sculpt and reduce the size of the upper arms to match the lower arm. Once the excess fat is removed, the skin shrinks to the fit the slimmer arm underneath. Liposuction of other body areas can be performed at the same time, as needed.
For patients with loose, sagging skin under their arms (or ""bat wings"") due to aging, gravity, or significant weight loss, liposuction will actually worsen the appearance of the arms. To properly reshape the arms, I tailor the skin to fit the underlying arm by surgically removing excess skin and fat. This procedure is called a brachioplasty (arm lift). A ""mini brachioplasty"" does not offer as much improvement as a full arm lift but is an option for patients with loose skin near the armpit or arm fold, leaving only a small scar in the arm crease.
Whether I perform liposuction, a full brachioplasty, or a mini arm lift, my goal is to give patients slimmer, more attractive upper arms. I suggest consulting with a board-certified plastic surgeon and expert in arm lifting. - Dr. Cohen

Great question!  Understand that liposuction is a volume only procedure and will do nothing to the skin.  If you feel that you have only a volume issue, then this maybe good enough for you.  However, if you have excess skin, then you would need an arm lift - however, this does come with a scar.   Without an examination it is hard to say which one is the best way to go for you.  It is best to speak with your surgeon about this issue and see what he/she says.Best of luck and hope this information helps!
- Dr. Roger Tsai   @DrRogerTsai
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon