Arm Liposuction Cost

How Much Does Arm Liposuction Cost?

Both Arms: $1,500-$5,000+

Arm liposuction is a cosmetic procedure that can remove excess fat from certain spots on the arm, usually the upper arm or the fat pads where the arms meet the body in front and back.

Typical costs:

Arm liposuction typically costs between $1,500 and $5,000 for both arms, which usually are counted as one body part. Cost varies by the individual patient and how much fat needs to be removed. For example, Dr. Jeffrey Melton, in Chicago, charges about $2,000 for an average patient. The Institute of Cosmetic and Reconstructive Surgery in California charges $2,000 to $4,000 for arm liposuction, depending on the patient. And Dr. Michael Anthony Pasquale in Honolulu, Hawaii, charges between $2,000 and $5,000, depending on the patient.
Arm liposuction is considered a cosmetic procedure, so it typically is not covered by health insurance.

What should be included:

In an initial consultation, the surgeon will examine the arms, discuss patient goals and describe the surgical procedure, risks and costs.
In arm liposuction, the surgeon will make tiny incisions, usually near the elbow or armpit, then insert a slender tube, called a canula, to break up and suction out excess fat. Arm liposuction usually is an outpatient procedure.
Some newer techniques, such as tumescent liposuction (in which the doctor injects a saline solution to make fat deposits easier to remove) and ultrasonic liposuction (in which the doctor uses sound waves to melt the fat) have made the process safer with better results. The National Institutes of Health provides an overview of liposuction.

Additional costs:

The doctor might prescribe antibiotics and pain medication for recovery.
Compression sleeves, usually worn for at least a week after surgery to reduce swelling and aid healing, usually cost $50 to $60 for each arm for a total of $100 to $120.
Recovery typically requires three to five days off work.

Discounts:

Many surgeons offer discounts for liposuction on multiple areas of the body. For example, the Institute of Cosmetic and Reconstructive Surgery in California charges $1,500 to $2,500 (instead of $2,000 to $4,000) for arm liposuction as a second area, and $1,000 as a third area.

Shopping for arm liposuction:

Good candidates for arm liposuction are healthy non-smokers close to their ideal weight who have localized areas of excess fat that have not responded to diet and exercise. Good skin elasticity also helps achieve desired results.
Tip: Make sure the doctor is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and has privileges at an accredited hospital, even if the surgery is not taking place there. Both the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery offer referral services.
Risks of arm liposuction include shock, fluid overload, bleeding, blood clots, fat embolism, nerve or tissue damage, burns, uneven fat removal, scarring, drug reactions and even death.

Material on this page is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Always consult your physician or pharmacist regarding medications or medical procedures.

Article updated February 2010