Florida Plastic Surgery - Dr. Hamwi 
Awake Arm Lift (Brachioplasty)
Awake Arm Lift (Brachioplasty) in Sarasota with Dr. Kristopher Hamwi
A healthy diet and exercise are essential to a healthy lifestyle, and they help us in attaining a slender, toned figure. However, we can eventually develop problem areas on our bodies that do not respond well to exercise caused by weight fluctuations, aging, or genetics. Significant weight loss might actually contribute to issues like sagging or drooping upper arms. After weight loss, the skin might not have adequate elasticity to resume its previous shape, resulting in extra skinfolds in areas like the upper arms.
If you’re frustrated with loose, sagging skin on your upper arms, especially after weight loss, an Awake Brachioplasty (Arm Lift surgery) with Dr. Kristopher Hamwi can help restore a slimmer, more defined shape. This procedure is ideal for patients looking to improve arm contour without general anesthesia, using a gentler, highly precise technique performed right here in Sarasota
To learn more about the best awake brachioplasty in Sarasota, FL, call Dr. Hamwi to schedule your complimentary consultation with Florida Plastic Surgery and Medspa by calling (941) 289-2791 or completing our online form today.
What Is Awake Brachioplasty?
Brachioplasty, sometimes called an arm lift, is a body-contouring surgery to reshape the upper arms by removing extra skin, tissue, and fat. The results are smoother, slender looking upper arms with improved muscle tone.
Dr. Hamwi typically performs Awake Brachioplasty using local anesthesia, allowing patients to remain comfortable and alert throughout the procedure. He begins the arm lift by sculpting the area with liposuction, which helps create a slimmer, more defined contour that’s proportionate to your body. After removing excess fat, Dr. Hamwi makes a discreet incision along the back or inner arm and removes any excess skin. Once the skin is carefully repositioned and secured, you’ll notice a visible improvement in the shape and tone of your arms immediately.
Awake Brachioplasty procedures are performed without requiring patients to undergo general anesthesia, helping them avoid the potential risks of the anesthetic. During the procedure, Dr. Hamwi asks the patient to sit up, allowing him to have better control over sculpting the arms and achieving optimal symmetry, shape, and contour. This method allows him to navigate the entire surgical process with the utmost levels of precision and consistency.
Why Should I Choose Dr. Hamwi as My Brachioplasty Surgeon in Sarasota, FL?
As a board-certified plastic surgery expert, Dr. Kristopher Hamwi is your friendly specialist in the field of aesthetic plastic surgery. With over ten years of training under the finest programs in Washington D.C., Manhattan, and Harvard, Dr. Hamwi has performed and mastered a full spectrum of procedures.
When you walk through Florida Plastic Surgery and Medspa doors, you will find your wellness partner in Dr. Hamwi. Passion for helping his patients gain confidence through aesthetic plastic surgery is what sets Dr. Hamwi apart. This dedication to his patients and his craft makes him your best choice for brachioplasty in Sarasota, FL.
Recognized as one of the leading awake brachioplasty surgeons, Dr. Hamwi attracts patients from across the United States and around the world. Individuals from 48 out of 50 states and even internationally have traveled to benefit from his specialized expertise.
Dr. Hamwi made me very comfortable discussing my upcoming brachioplasty. I have complete confidence I have chosen the right surgeon to sculpt my arms and remove all the extra skin I have from losing 97 pounds. I'm hoping together we will get the best outcome. I’m looking forward to being able to wear sleeveless tops and dresses for the first time in 45 years. It’ll be life changing!
What Are the Benefits of Awake Brachioplasty in Sarasota?
There are many reasons for upper arm skin to stretch and droop: weight gain and loss, aging, or genetic issues. Stretched skin that has lost its elasticity can prevent it from returning to its previous position, creating skinfolds on your upper arms. Skinfolds on your upper arms can cause discomfort or problems, such as:
- Inflammation
- Rashes
- Hygienic issues
- Diminished self-confidence
However, the best arm lift in Sarasota can help to resolve these issues by reducing the sagging and drooping skin in the upper arms. During Awake Brachioplasty, Dr. Hamwi will tighten and smooth the underlying tissues to redefine the shape of the upper arms by removing the small pockets of stubborn fat and excess skin.
An Awake Arm Lift offers several benefits over a traditional brachioplasty performed under general anesthesia, including:
- Reduce recovery time, allowing quicker return to daily activities
- Minimize risks by using local anesthetic
- More personalized results
In short, an awake arm lift enhances body contouring with minimal recovery, reduced risks, and greater affordability.
Your Sarasota Awake Arm Lift Consultation with Dr. Hamwi
At Florida Plastic Surgery and Medspa, you may choose an in-person or complimentary virtual brachioplasty consultation. During your consultation, Dr. Hamwi will discuss your concerns and goals to ensure that you feel understood and heard. Dr. Hamwi will provide you with the important information you need to make educated choices about your procedure. He will explain the awake arm lift process and how it allows him to create better results for you in the safest manner possible.
At Florida Plastic Surgery and Medspa, our goal is to help you feel prepared, comfortable and empowered to make informed decisions regarding your procedures to regain your confidence. You will never feel pressured.
What Can I Expect in a Brachioplasty Procedure?
Our clinical team will call you the day before with your arrival time. Before your scheduled surgery you will meet with Dr. Hamwi and his staff. He will review the details of your awake brachioplasty procedure, and make you feel comfortable and at ease.
Once your arms are safely numb, Dr. Hamwi will begin your brachioplasty procedure by following the treatment plan created during your consultation. He may start with liposuction to remove excess fat and sculpt the arms. Then, through carefully placed incisions along the back or inside of the upper arm, he will remove excess skin and tissue to create a slimmer, more contoured appearance.
After excess skin has been removed, the remaining skin will be repositioned and reconnected for a smoother contour, and then the incisions will be closed and dressed. You will be dressed a PICO dressing for best possible results in compression bandages to minimize the risk of swelling.
Who Is an Ideal Candidate for Awake Brachioplasty?
Ideal candidates for the best Awake Brachioplasty in Sarasota, FL, include men and women who want to improve the appearance of their upper arms by removing extra tissue and fat. These candidates have sagging, hanging skin that is unresponsive to diet and exercise. They are bothered by the appearance of their arms and may avoid wearing clothing or bathing suits that reveal their arms.
Suitable candidates should be:
- In good physical health
- Non-smokers
- Close to their stable, target weight
- Have realistic expectations for their arm lift procedure
Awake Brachioplasty is not always the best option for every patient, and other treatments, including traditional brachioplasty under general anesthesia, may be a better option. Be sure to discuss all your concerns and medical history with Dr. Hamwi during your consultation.
How Soon Will I See My Sarasota, FL, Awake Brachioplasty Results?
In most cases, you will see visible results immediately following your brachioplasty procedure. You may experience swelling and bruising at the treatment site, and the recovery process may take between two to three weeks. It is essential to closely follow Dr. Hamwi’s instructions regarding medications and activity limitations to ensure safe healing and optimal results.
As Dr. Hamwi is dedicated to your results, he will educate you on maintaining your results. Your arm lift results should be long-lasting if you can sustain a stable weight and follow a healthy diet and exercise regimen.
Ready to get started?
Dr. Kristopher Hamwi has trained for over ten years at some of the world’s top institutions to become one of Florida’s best aesthetic plastic surgeons. Utilizing his exceptional skill, rigorous training, and genuine, caring approach, Dr. Hamwi strives for total patient satisfaction. Ready to partner with Sarasota’s leading aesthetic plastic surgeon?
Ready to Show Off Your New Arms?
Slender, toned arms are well within your reach. Brachioplasty at Florida Plastic Surgery and Medspa may be the solution to the lax skin keeping you from showing off your arms.
Learn more about how Brachioplasty in Sarasota can enhance the appearance of your arms with long-lasting results you’ll love to show off! Contact Dr. Hamwi at Florida Plastic Surgery and Medspa at (941) 289-2791 or fill out our online form today.
Sarasota, FL, Awake Arm Lift Treatment — FAQs
Brachioplasty is a customizable procedure, so your arm lift’s costs will vary depending upon your individualized procedural plan. During your consultation, Dr. Hamwi will provide an estimate for a more accurate cost of brachioplasty procedure in Sarasota.
During your Awake Brachioplasty procedure, Dr. Hamwi will treat the area with local anesthetic so you will not experience much discomfort. He will prescribe pain medication for you to take in the following days. Patients may experience some discomfort, swelling, and bruising. Be sure to address your pain concerns with Dr. Hamwi during your consultation.
Arm lifts permanently remove loose skin and tighten muscles in the upper arm. When combined with liposuction, it also eliminates stubborn fat. To ensure the longevity of your arm lift results, it’s important to maintain your stable weight after your surgery. By continuing your healthy lifestyle, including diet and exercise, your arm lift results will last for a decade or more.
With time, the skin and muscles can begin sagging again due to the aging process. As that happens, it’s important to reach out to Dr. Hamwi to explore other options to retain the contoured appearance of your arm, including another arm lift or other skin-tightening procedures.
Yes, as with any surgery involving incisions, some scarring is expected. However, Dr. Hamwi carefully places awake brachioplasty incisions in discreet areas—typically along the inner or back of the arm—to keep them as hidden as possible.
Following your scar care instructions will help scars fade over time. Tips for minimizing scarring include:
- Keeping incisions clean and dry
- Wearing protective clothing or sunscreen
- Avoiding overhead lifting during the first few weeks
- Using recommended scar gels or silicone treatments as advised
An arm lift reduces the excess skin and tightens lax tissues in the upper arm. While a brachioplasty can include liposuction to create smoother contours, it is not intended as a weight loss procedure. Arm lifts give a more toned and contoured appearance to the upper arms, but they do not result in significant weight loss.
Following an awake arm lift, you may experience limited mobility for at least one to two weeks. For example, you will not be able to raise your arms above your shoulders. You will need to avoid strenuous activities like exercising or heavy lifting for approximately six weeks. Most patients can resume light work, such as office work, within a week of surgery. During your follow-up appointments, Dr. Hamwi will direct you as to when you can resume other activities.
Yes! Typically, Dr. Hamwi performs Awake Brachioplasty rather than under general anesthesia. Before the surgery, your arms will be treated with local anesthesia. During your procedure, Dr. Hamwi will ensure you do not experience pain or discomfort.
During your consultation with Dr. Hamwi, he will review your complete medical history, including allergies and current medical conditions, to ensure you are an ideal candidate for Awake Brachioplasty.
Typically, an Awake Arm Lift requires less recovery time than traditional brachioplasty performed under general anesthesia. Full recovery takes about 6 weeks, and following that, you can resume all normal activities, including exercise. You should feel well enough to begin walking slowly in the first few days. In 1 to 2 weeks, you should feel more energetic and begin driving and resume working if you feel comfortable doing so.
Following your arm lift, it’s important to get plenty of rest. Resting with your head and arms propped up with multiple pillows or in a recliner in an upright position can help reduce swelling and discomfort. Wear your compression garments as directed by Dr. Hamwi. Take prescription and anti-inflammatory medications to help relieve discomfort and inflammation. Use cold compresses on your arms for 20 minutes at a time and be sure to protect your skin by wrapping the ice pack with a towel. Avoid putting strain on your shoulders by using your elbows and keep a folded towel under the armpits to provide some additional elevation.
Brachioplasty FAQ Guide
Before Your Consultation
It’s a surgical arm lift performed under local anesthesia, meaning you’ll be awake during the procedure but fully numbed in the treatment area. This avoids general anesthesia and allows for a quicker, easier recovery.
Yes, most of Dr. Hamwi’s brachioplasty procedures are performed “awake” using local anesthesia. He prefers this method because it reduces the risks associated with general anesthesia, shortens recovery time, and allows patients to avoid grogginess or nausea. It also allows for greater precision during the procedure, as natural arm positioning is preserved.
Good candidates are generally healthy adults with excess arm skin or sagging due to aging or weight loss. Dr. Hamwi will evaluate your goals, skin quality, and health history during your consult.
Dr. Hamwi will examine your arms, discuss your goals, review before/after photos, and create a custom surgical plan. We’ll also go over the awake anesthesia process and answer any questions you may have.
Yes. Although awake brachioplasty is the preferred method, some patients feel more comfortable with IV sedation. Dr. Hamwi can discuss whether this option is
appropriate for you during your consultation.
It’s completely normal to feel anxious before any procedure. Most patients are 1 surprised by how comfortable and relaxed they feel once the area is numbed. We provide a calm, supportive environment, and you’ll be able to listen to music or talk with the team throughout the procedure. For patients with higher anxiety, Dr. Hamwi can discuss options like a mild oral sedative prior to surgery to help you feel more at ease.
Procedure & Anesthesia
Most awake brachioplasty procedures take between 2–3 hours, depending on the amount of correction needed.
Yes. Local anesthesia is extremely safe and well-tolerated. It significantly reduces surgical risk and is often preferred by patients who want a faster, smoother
recovery with fewer side effects.
In many cases, yes. Liposuction is often used in combination with brachioplasty to remove excess fat and help create a more sculpted, natural-looking result. Dr.
Hamwi will determine whether it’s necessary during your consultation.
Recovery & Results
This is an outpatient procedure. You’ll be in our office for approximately 4 hours total, including prep and recovery. Most patients return to light activity within 5–7 days. A compression garment is worn for several weeks to support healing, and swelling improves gradually over the first few months.
Yes. You’ll need someone to drive you home and stay with you for the first 24 hours. If you don’t have anyone available or your companion isn’t comfortable assisting, we can coordinate care with a trusted concierge recovery partner. Special rates are available for our patients.
The incisions are placed discreetly along the inner arms and fade significantly over time with proper care. Dr. Hamwi uses advanced closure techniques to minimize visible scarring. Scar care and expectations will be discussed during your consultation.
Yes. We use PICO negative pressure dressings after surgery. These help manage incision healing by reducing tension on the scar, minimizing swelling, and
improving overall wound healing.
Pre-Operative Support
In some cases, yes. Our team will review your health history and full list of medications prior to surgery. It is typically recommended that you discontinue products containing aspirin, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), multivitamins, and herbal supplements such as fish oil, vitamin E, and others. A complete list of medications and supplements to avoid will be provided to you.
If you are taking prescription blood thinners, this will be discussed with Dr. Hamwi directly, and he will provide specific guidance based on your individual case.
Always confirm with our team, but generally:
- Before surgery: Arnica is often recommended to help reduce bruising.
- After surgery: Continue Arnica; consider adding Zinc or a daily multivitamin to support healing. Staying well-hydrated and following a protein-rich diet
can also aid in recovery.
Awake brachioplasty procedures require fewer pre-op tests due to the use of local anesthesia. Most patients only need basic lab work and a pregnancy test if they are of childbearing age. If you opt for IV sedation, a full medical clearance from your primary care physician is required, along with labs and an EKG. Once your procedure is scheduled, our clinical team will review your health history during your virtual pre-op appointment and order any necessary tests.
Scheduling & Payment
Typically, Dr. Hamwi books several months in advance. He performs awake surgeries 2.5 days a week (Monday mornings, and all day Wednesday and Thursday) and IV sedation surgeries 1–2 days a week (every Tuesday and some Thursdays). This may vary based on the time of year. High-demand periods like
long holiday weekends, spring break, and summer often book out 2–4 months in advance. We encourage you to reserve your surgery date as early as you feel
comfortable.
All of our quotes are “flat fee,” meaning they include everything necessary for your surgery as well as the services and appointments provided by our team. This
includes:
- Dr. Hamwi’s surgical fees
- Facility fees
- Anesthesia (IV or local)
- Pre-op visit with our nurse
- Post-op visits with our nurse and/or Dr. Hamwi
- Two compression garments
The only items not included are services or items performed at outside facilities, such as lab work or prescriptions.
One of our surgery schedulers will be happy to assist you in selecting a surgery date with Dr. Hamwi. A $1,500 non-refundable deposit is required to reserve your
surgery. The remaining balance is due at your pre-op appointment or 14 days prior to surgery, whichever occurs first.
No, our practice does not accept insurance. However, we’re happy to provide you
with an itemized receipt, ICD-10 and CPT codes, medical exam notes, pre-op photos, and any other documentation your insurance company may request. This allows you to attempt reimbursement through your out-of-network benefits. Please let us know at the time of your consultation if you intend to seek reimbursement. If we’re informed afterward, we can still provide the necessary paperwork, but it may delay the process.
Yes! We offer financing through CareCredit. We participate in the 6-month deferred interest plan (0% interest if paid in full within the promotional period; minimum monthly payments required). Longer-term options such as 24- and 36 month plans with interest are also available. Financing is subject to credit approval,
and our staff will be happy to walk you through the application process or answer any questions you may have.
Out-of-Town Patient Travel FAQ
Traveling for surgery? We’re here to make your visit smooth and stress-free.
Travel & Transportation
Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) is just 20 minutes away. Tampa International Airport (TPA) is about 1 hour away and may offer more direct flight options.
Most patients do not rent a car unless they plan to explore the area. Uber and Lyft are readily available in Sarasota.
Where to Stay
Yes! We’ve partnered with several nearby hotels to offer discounted rates exclusively for Florida Plastic Surgery patients. Restrictions apply, and rates are based on availability, so please contact the hotel directly for questions and reservations. Be sure to mention you’re a Florida Plastic Surgery patient when booking.
1. Courtyard by Marriott Sarasota at University Town Center
- 8305 Tourist Center Drive, Sarasota, FL 34201
- (941) 360-2626
- $139/night (June 18–Sept 30), $149/night (Oct 1–Dec 31)
2. Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Sarasota at University Town Center
- 8565 Cooper Creek Boulevard, Sarasota, FL 34201
- (941) 355-8619
- $129/night (June 18–Sept 30), $139/night (Oct 1–Dec 31)
3. Homewood Suites by Hilton Sarasota at University Town Center
- 305 N. Cattlemen Rd., Sarasota, FL 34235
- (941) 309-3904
- 1–4 nights: $169/night (June 18–Sept 30) | $179/night (Oct 1–Dec 31)
- 5–11 nights: $144/night | $154/night
- 12+ nights: $139/night | $149/night
Our team can also recommend other nearby hotels based on your preferences and budget.
If you’re flying in, we recommend arriving at least one day prior to your procedure to give yourself time to settle in and attend your pre-op appointment.
Surgery & Recovery
This depends on your procedure, but most patients stay 1–2 days after surgery for follow up care and safe travel recovery.
Yes. For your safety, you must have someone stay with you for at least the first 24 hours. If you’re traveling alone, we can help coordinate care with one of our trusted concierge recovery partners. Special rates are available for Florida Plastic Surgery patients.
Once your surgery is scheduled, we’ll book a virtual pre-op appointment with one of our surgical team members. During this appointment, we’ll go over your personalized post-op instructions, what to pack, how to set up your recovery space, and any activity restrictions.
Scheduling & Virtual Support
Many procedures qualify for virtual post-op visits. This will be discussed during your consultation appointment, but you can also speak with one of our surgery schedulers beforehand if you’d like to review your options in advance.
After your consultation, our team will walk you through the process to secure your surgical date, submit your deposit, and coordinate your pre- and post-op care — all remotely.
