Procedure

Arm & Thigh Lift at La Belle Forme

Arm & Thigh Lift

Treatment Time

2 – 3 Hours

Time Off Work

1 – 2 Weeks (depending on the procedure)

Sessions Required

One Procedure

Full Results

Visible in 3 – 6 Months (as swelling subsides)

What Is an Arm or Thigh Lift?

An arm lift (brachioplasty) and thigh lift (thighplasty) are cosmetic procedures designed to remove excess skin and fat from the upper arms or thighs. These areas can become loose or saggy due to weight loss, ageing, or genetics.

At La Belle Forme in Glasgow, we reshape these areas to create a more toned and youthful contour. The procedure involves removing redundant skin and fat, tightening the underlying tissue, and smoothing the skin for improved definition.

These surgeries are especially beneficial after significant weight loss or if you feel self-conscious about loose skin that doesn’t respond to exercise.

What Happens During Surgery?

Your journey begins with a detailed consultation with one of our GMC-registered plastic surgeons. They will assess your skin quality, discuss your expectations, and recommend the most suitable surgical approach.

On the day of surgery, you’ll receive general anaesthesia. Incisions are made along the inside or back of the arm (or inner thigh) to remove excess skin and fat. The remaining tissue is then tightened and reshaped. The incisions are carefully closed with sutures, and compression garments are applied.

You can usually go home the same day, depending on your procedure.

Is It Right for Me?

You may be suitable for an arm or thigh lift if you:

  • Have sagging or loose skin on your upper arms or thighs
  • Have lost significant weight and want to refine your shape
  • Are in good health and close to your ideal weight

These procedures are not for weight loss. You’ll need a stable BMI and realistic expectations. Your surgeon will discuss all suitability criteria during your consultation.

Smoother, tighter, and more youthful arm or thigh contours
Improved confidence in clothing and body image
Long-lasting results with stable weight
Personalised care and support in a regulated surgical environment

All surgical procedures involve some risks, which may include:

  • Bruising, swelling, or discomfort during recovery
  • Scarring (usually hidden on inner arm/thigh)
  • Temporary numbness or tightness
  • Infection or delayed wound healing (rare)
  • Asymmetry or irregular contours

Your surgeon will clearly explain all potential risks and answer any questions you have before proceeding.

Before & After

Before After Arm Lift Before and AfterArm Lift Before and After
Before After Arm Lift Before and AfterArm Lift Before and After

BOOK YOUR CONSULTATION

Speak with one of our patient care coordinators

Your telephone consultation is confidential, no-obligation, and designed to help you understand your treatment options before booking an appointment.


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✅ PERSONAL TREATMENT GUIDANCE

✅ CLEAR NEXT STEPS

Prefer to speak to us?
☏  0141 552 0828
✉  enquiries@labelleforme.co.uk

Please note a payment may be required at the booking stage. If you need more information before booking an appointment please book an appointment with one of our Patient Care Coordinators.

Post Lymphatic Drainage — Aftercare for Arm Lift & Thigh Lift

Arm lift (brachioplasty) and thigh lift procedures both involve the removal of excess skin and tissue from the limbs — reshaping the upper arms or thighs to achieve a smoother, more defined contour. Both procedures produce post-surgical swelling and fluid retention that, without targeted support, can be slow to resolve and uncomfortable during recovery. At La Belle Forme, we now offer Post Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) as part of our aftercare programme for arm lift and thigh lift patients, available at our HIS-registered clinics in Glasgow, Edinburgh and Perth.

The upper arms have a relatively contained lymphatic drainage pathway, meaning post-surgical fluid can accumulate and linger in the treated area without the natural movement needed to clear it. Compression garments help, but they work best when combined with active lymphatic support.

MLD after an arm lift targets the lymphatic vessels of the upper arm and axillary (underarm) region — the primary drainage pathway for the treatment area. Gentle, directional strokes guide post-surgical fluid toward the lymph nodes in the armpit for clearance, reducing swelling and helping the arms take shape more quickly.

Gravity plays a significant role in thigh lift recovery — fluid naturally pools downward into the lower limbs, and the lymphatic vessels of the inner and outer thigh are among the longer drainage pathways in the body. Swelling, tightness and temporary numbness are all common in the weeks following a thigh lift without active management.

MLD after a thigh lift works along the lymphatic channels of the inner and outer thigh toward the inguinal lymph nodes in the groin, actively moving fluid out of the treated area rather than waiting for it to resolve on its own — making a meaningful difference to both comfort and the speed at which your results become visible.

Whether you have had an arm lift, a thigh lift, or both procedures together, MLD sessions at La Belle Forme are tailored to your specific treatment areas and your stage of recovery. Benefits include:

  • Reduces localised swelling and heaviness in the treated arm or thigh areas
  • Helps the skin adapt smoothly to the refined contour beneath
  • Prevents fibrosis or lumpiness forming in the treated areas during healing
  • Improves comfort and range of movement in the arms and legs during recovery
  • Supports compression garments to work more effectively alongside treatment
  • Elevating the treated limb between sessions further supports the drainage process

MLD can begin 24 to 72 hours after your arm lift or thigh lift procedure. Sessions are typically 45 to 60 minutes — or longer if both arm and thigh areas are being treated in the same session. There is no downtime required after each treatment, and sessions can be scheduled comfortably around your return to daily activities.

If you have had both procedures together, your therapist will coordinate the session to work across all treated areas efficiently, following your surgeon’s post-operative guidance throughout.

Recovery & Aftercare at La Belle Forme

Your recovery is carefully supported by our team to ensure a safe and smooth healing journey. Most people can return home the same day, and we provide clear guidance to help you feel confident throughout the process.

We’ll also schedule follow-up appointments at our Glasgow clinic to monitor your progress and answer any questions you may have.

Our dedicated aftercare support line is available should you need reassurance at any point during your recovery. Your comfort, safety, and satisfaction are our top priorities.

Why Choose La Belle Forme Glasgow?

At La Belle Forme, you’ll receive personalised care from a highly experienced team in one of Scotland’s leading aesthetic clinics.

GMC-Registered Surgeons with Years of Experience

All procedures are carried out by experienced, GMC-registered surgeons who meet the required standards of medical training and practice in the UK.

Aftercare Plans Tailored to Individual Needs

Our personalised aftercare plans are designed around your specific recovery needs. You’ll receive ongoing support and guidance to help you heal safely and comfortably.

Consultations with No Obligation

Speak with one of our qualified professionals to explore your options. There’s no pressure to commit – just clear, honest advice to help you make an informed decision.

HIS-Regulated Clinics and Hospitals

All our facilities in Scotland are regulated by Healthcare Improvement Scotland (HIS), ensuring high standards of safety, hygiene, and patient care are consistently maintained.

FAQ's

Yes, but the incisions are placed discreetly on the inside of the arm or thigh. Scars typically fade over time and are managed with aftercare guidance.

You should avoid strenuous activity for 4 – 6 weeks. Gentle walking is encouraged early on, but your surgeon will guide you on when to safely resume exercise.

Yes. These procedures are often combined with tummy tucks, breast lifts, or liposuction as part of a body contouring plan. Your surgeon can discuss suitable combinations.

Results are long-lasting with a stable weight and healthy lifestyle. Ageing and weight fluctuations can affect skin tone over time.

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Visit Us in Glasgow

La Belle Forme is located in the heart of Glasgow, easily accessible by train, bus, and car. We offer flexible appointment times to fit your schedule.