Is an Elbow Lift Painful?

Generally, no: an elbow lift is not painful because anesthesia is used throughout the surgical procedure. You should, however, expect to experience some mild discomfort during the recovery period, which can be easily managed with prescribed pain medications, ice packs, and, in some cases, compression garments. Dr. Gallagher will provide you with specific instructions to follow during your recovery to make the process as comfortable as possible.

How Many Appointments Will I Need?

Throughout the entire process, you can expect a few appointments: the consultation, the pre-operative visit (this can be done with your local doctor if traveling from outside of town), the surgery, and the follow-up visit(s). The follow-ups ensure you are healing well, monitor your progress, and allow Dr. Gallagher to make adjustments to your recovery instructions if needed. This allows you to ask questions as well and ensure you’re on track for a successful recovery.

How Long Until I See Results?

You will notice improvements in the contour of your elbows almost immediately after surgery, though some swelling and bruising may temporarily obscure your final results. As your body heals over the following weeks, your elbows will appear smoother, firmer, and more refined. Most patients see their final results within 3 to 6 months, once residual swelling has fully resolved.

Can I Combine an Elbow Lift With Other Procedures?

Yes, there are patients who seek out multiple arm procedures for a more comprehensive transformation, especially if they have experienced significant weight changes and are experiencing sagging skin or excess fat in the area. The most common procedures to combine with an elbow lift are an arm lift, armpit fat removal, and, sometimes, hand rejuvenation. If you have specific concerns you would like addressed, Dr. Gallagher can discuss your options with you to find the right combination of treatments.

What Are the Risks Associated With an Elbow Lift?

As with any surgical procedure, an elbow lift does carry some risks. These may include infection, bleeding, fluid buildup, scarring, or changes in skin sensation. In rare cases, patients may experience delayed healing or contour irregularities. Choosing an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Gallagher greatly reduces these risks, and following her detailed pre- and post-operative instructions will further support a smooth, safe recovery.

Miami, FL

Elbow Lift

Elbow Lift In Miami

Elbow lift surgery, also known as elbow rejuvenation or elbow contouring, is a specialized procedure designed to address excess skin and fat in the elbow area. As we age, our skin loses elasticity, leading to sagging or drooping skin on the elbows. Additionally, weight loss or genetics can contribute to loose or flabby elbows. Some patients may have an “overhang” of tissue covering the elbow, especially when the arm is extended. We call this the “buried elbow.” This is amenable to elbow lift. Dr. Gallagher understands the impact this can have on your self-confidence, and she is dedicated to providing personalized solutions that restore a more youthful and defined appearance to your elbows.

With Dr. Gallagher, you can expect a comprehensive evaluation, personalized treatment plan, and compassionate care throughout your journey.

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What is an Elbow Lift?

An elbow lift surgically improves the appearance of the elbows by tightening and smoothing the skin in that area, resulting in a more contoured and toned appearance. Over time, factors such as aging, weight loss, or genetics can cause the skin in this area to sag or appear loose. Many patients opt for this procedure to enhance comfort, minimize skin folds, and achieve a more balanced appearance that complements the natural contours of their arms. Some patients will add it on to brachioplasty or arm lift. It can also be performed in combination with other body contouring surgeries for more comprehensive results.

What Are the Benefits of an Elbow Lift?

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Improved Contour: Elbow tuck surgery reshapes and tightens the skin and underlying tissues, creating a more refined and youthful contour.
Elimination of Excess Skin and Fat: The procedure targets and removes excess skin and fat, eliminating a sagging or flabby appearance in the elbow area. It is the most effective way to address a “buried elbow” where the patient may have a fold of skin or fat that hangs over the elbow when the arm is straight.
Increased Confidence: By restoring a smoother and firmer appearance to your elbows, elbow tuck surgery can enhance your self-esteem and confidence in your overall appearance.

Who Are the Best Candidates For an Elbow Lift?

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The best candidates for an elbow lift in Miami are individuals who are bothered by loose, sagging, or excess skin around their elbows that does not improve with diet, exercise, or skincare. Many patients pursue this procedure after significant weight loss or as a result of natural aging, but ideal candidates are in good overall health, non-smokers, and have realistic expectations about the outcome of surgery. We see many patients who have had a brachioplasty elsewhere and are still bothered by this problem. Dr. Gallagher will carefully evaluate your skin quality, medical history, and goals during your consultation to determine if this treatment is right for you.

What’s the First Step?

Your Elbow Lift Journey with Dr. Gallagher

The first step toward an elbow lift is scheduling a private consultation with Dr. Gallagher at Gallagher Plastic Surgery either in Miami or virtually. During this visit, she will review your concerns, discuss your medical history, and perform a detailed examination of your elbows to assess the degree of skin laxity and tissue changes. Together, you will review your goals and create a personalized surgical plan tailored to your specific needs. This is also the time to ask questions, review before-and-after photos, and understand what to expect before, during, and after surgery.

What to Expect on the Day of Elbow Lift Surgery

During elbow tuck surgery, Dr. Gallagher makes discreet incisions in the natural creases of the elbows, resulting in well-concealed scars. Typically, these incisions are placed in the horizontal creases just above the elbow. Through these incisions, she removes excess skin and fat, and, if necessary, tightens the underlying tissues to achieve optimal results. The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia, ensuring your comfort throughout the surgery.

Elbow Lift Recovery

Your Guide to Post-Elbow Lift Care

Recovery and Results: After the elbow tuck surgery, you can expect a recovery period during which some swelling, bruising, and discomfort may occur. Dr. Gallagher and her team will provide you with comprehensive post-operative instructions to guide you through the healing process. They will be readily available to address any concerns or questions you may have during your recovery journey.

As the swelling subsides, you will begin to see the beautiful results of your elbow tuck surgery. Your elbows will appear more sculpted, defined, and youthful, enhancing the overall harmony and balance of your arms.

How Much Does an Elbow Lift Cost in Miami?

The cost of an Elbow Lift in Miami can vary depending on factors such as the complexity of the procedure, whether it is combined with other surgeries, anesthesia fees, and facility costs. Because each patient’s needs and goals are unique, pricing is best discussed during your consultation with Dr. Gallagher. At that time, you will receive a detailed cost estimate as well as information about payment options and financing plans that may be available to help make your treatment more accessible.

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Why Choose Dr. Gallagher?

Dr. Sidhbh Gallagher is a respected Miami-based plastic surgeon, double board-certified in both general and plastic surgery. Her affiliations with the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) and the Aesthetic Society underscore her expertise and dedication to advancing the specialty. Widely regarded as a trusted leader in her field, Dr. Gallagher is sought after by patients across Florida for her skillful techniques and personalized care. She is especially admired for creating results that look natural and refined while maintaining a warm, compassionate approach that puts patients at ease.

Elbow Lift FAQ’S

Generally, no: an elbow lift is not painful because anesthesia is used throughout the surgical procedure. You should, however, expect to experience some mild discomfort during the recovery period, which can be easily managed with prescribed pain medications, ice packs, and, in some cases, compression garments. Dr. Gallagher will provide you with specific instructions to follow during your recovery to make the process as comfortable as possible.
Throughout the entire process, you can expect a few appointments: the consultation, the pre-operative visit (this can be done with your local doctor if traveling from outside of town), the surgery, and the follow-up visit(s). The follow-ups ensure you are healing well, monitor your progress, and allow Dr. Gallagher to make adjustments to your recovery instructions if needed. This allows you to ask questions as well and ensure you’re on track for a successful recovery.
You will notice improvements in the contour of your elbows almost immediately after surgery, though some swelling and bruising may temporarily obscure your final results. As your body heals over the following weeks, your elbows will appear smoother, firmer, and more refined. Most patients see their final results within 3 to 6 months, once residual swelling has fully resolved.
Yes, there are patients who seek out multiple arm procedures for a more comprehensive transformation, especially if they have experienced significant weight changes and are experiencing sagging skin or excess fat in the area. The most common procedures to combine with an elbow lift are an arm lift, armpit fat removal, and, sometimes, hand rejuvenation. If you have specific concerns you would like addressed, Dr. Gallagher can discuss your options with you to find the right combination of treatments.
As with any surgical procedure, an elbow lift does carry some risks. These may include infection, bleeding, fluid buildup, scarring, or changes in skin sensation. In rare cases, patients may experience delayed healing or contour irregularities. Choosing an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Gallagher greatly reduces these risks, and following her detailed pre- and post-operative instructions will further support a smooth, safe recovery.

See what our Patients Say

Patient Reviews

I had an amazing experience with Dr.Gallagher and her team, the whole experience from the procedure (top surgery) to the post-op care has been fantastic. Dr.Gallagher was able to address any concerns I had with my chest before the procedure and made me feel comfortable the whole way through, and then the attentiveness post-op is all the better.

Alfio Oliveira (Jay)
Thank you so much Dr. Gallagher for your amazing work! I appreciated the great support from your team at the surgical centre and your office. Everyone was so wonderful! I am extremely happy with my results and had a very positive experience. I had followed Dr. Gallagher for several years on Instagram prior to my surgery, and learned so much from her detailed explanations about various aspects of the surgical procedures, what to expect on the day, recovery, etc. I had complete trust, felt safe, felt listened to. I also appreciate the follow-ups, and answers to all my questions. The support, warmth, care is top notch!

Gill B.
Dr. Gallagher and her whole team, from Neasa to Daryl Ann and everyone else in between, are absolutely fantastic, kind hearted, hard working people. Dr. Gallagher truly amazed me and I’m so grateful to have had her on my team.

I was able to get keyhole top surgery about three weeks ago and I’m loving my results already! I’m muscular and heavier set as well but always had a smaller chest, and I’m so glad Dr. Gallagher was the one who could do this for me.

Right now I am still experiencing swelling, but I am using compression dressings every day, throughout the day which helps tons! I know that when the swelling subsides months from now, and everything is “back to normal”, I am going to love even more what I see in the mirror because I can finally see me.

Morgan F.
So glad I found Dr. Gallagher. I would not have elected to pursue my surgery had I not found a qualified and competent medical provider that I felt I could trust and have confidence in their ability to offer a high-quality, low-risk result. As a result of my initial contacts and consultations with Gallagher Plastic Surgery practice, I was willing to pursue my desired surgery and even travel half-way across the country to their offices. I’m so glad I did. The results are outstanding, more than I even anticipated. This was the 3rd practice I had dealt with and so I was learning what to look for and knew Dr. Gallagher was a good fit. The medical expertise and professionalism are what I based my decision on to proceed. They were calmly confident for a reason. I realized at the surgery event and through to the 3 week post-op checkin the excellence in their personal care (bed side manner). The office and Dr. Gallagher communicated very well. Everything went smoothly and as planned. As nervous as I was about an unnecessary surgery, Dr. Gallagher and her team were able to build enough trust that I was able to receive a very beneficial result.

Tim F.
Dr. Gallagher and her team are the absolute best! She completed my brachioplasty on Tuesday and when I saw the initial results at my post op appointment two days later I literally had tears of joy streaming down my face. My weight loss journey has been a road of many ups and downs, and I was so nervous about whether this surgery could even work for me. Even with the swelling that is normal after brachioplasty, there is an enormous difference, and I am still in disbelief that even this early on, my arms look this great. My husband was even in disbelief, and we’re so excited to see what I’ll look like in two weeks time. Dr. Gallagher is so kind and patient, and walked me through all of the phases of healing/expectations, and was great to call and check in. If you are looking for a highly skilled surgeon that will give you optimal results along with a compassionate approach, it is well worth your time and money to consider a consultation with her. I am forever thankful for her and for her team! This is life changing for me. Thank you, Dr. Gallagher! I appreciate you so much!

Melissa E.

Schedule Your Consultation

Schedule a Consultation with Dr. Gallagher: If you are considering elbow tuck surgery to achieve smoother, firmer, and more youthful-looking elbows, we invite you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Gallagher in Miami. During this personalized consultation, Dr. Gallagher will carefully evaluate your concerns, discuss your goals, and recommend a customized treatment plan to help you achieve the results you desire.

Dr. Gallagher frequently works with patients outside of Miami and the state of Florida. If you are interested in discussing this procedure in further detail, you can also schedule a virtual consultation with her to ask any questions you may have and learn more about proceeding with your surgery.

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