Awake Arm Lift (Brachioplasty)

How much does awake brachioplasty cost in Sarasota, FL?
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 the brachioplasty procedure in Sarasota.

Is Awake Brachioplasty in Sarasota painful?
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.

How long do arm lift results last?
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.

Will there be scarring after brachioplasty?
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

How Much Weight Can You Lose After Awake Brachioplasty?
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.

Can you move your arms after an arm lift?
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.

Can you be awake during an arm lift?
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.

What is the brachioplasty recovery process like?
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.

How do I minimize swelling and discomfort after brachioplasty?
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.

What is an “awake” brachioplasty?

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.

Does Dr. Hamwi perform “awake” brachioplasty?

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.

Am I a candidate for an awake brachioplasty?

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.

What will happen at my consultation?

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.

Will Dr. Hamwi do my brachioplasty under IV sedation if I prefer?

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.

What if I’m nervous about being awake during surgery?

It’s completely normal to feel anxious before any procedure. Most patients are 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.

How long does the procedure take?

Most awake brachioplasty procedures take between 2 and 3 hours, depending on the amount of correction needed.

Is it safe to stay awake for surgery?

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.

Do I need liposuction with my brachioplasty?

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.

What is recovery like after awake brachioplasty?

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.

Do I need someone to assist me after surgery?

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.

Are the scars noticeable?

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.

Do you use PICO dressings?

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.

Do I need to stop medications prior to surgery?

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.

What supplements should I take before and after surgery?

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.

What tests do I need to get done before surgery?

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.

If I decide to schedule surgery with Dr. Hamwi after my consultation, how far out is his first available date?

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.

What do the quotes include?

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.

When I’m ready to schedule surgery, what do I need to do?

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.

Do you take insurance?

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.

Do you offer financing?

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.

What is the closest airport to your office?

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.

Do I need to rent a car?

Most patients do not rent a car unless they plan to explore the area. Uber and Lyft are readily available in Sarasota.

Are there recommended hotels nearby?

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

• 2. Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Sarasota at University Town Center

  8565 Cooper Creek Boulevard, Sarasota, FL 34201

  (941) 355-8619

• 3. Homewood Suites by Hilton Sarasota at University Town Center

  305 N. Cattlemen Rd., Sarasota, FL 34235

  (941) 309-3904

Our team can also recommend other nearby hotels based on your preferences and budget.

How far in advance should I arrive before surgery?

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.

How long should I plan to stay after surgery?

This depends on your procedure, but most patients stay 1–2 days after surgery for follow-up care and safe travel recovery.

Do I need someone to stay with me after surgery?

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.

What should I do to prepare for recovery?

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.

Can I do all of my post-op appointments virtually?

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.

How do I book surgery if I’m not local?

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.