Upper Arm Liposuction in Ginza, Tokyo | Dr. Shin Moriwaki’s Cases and Approach2026.11.07
AVAN TOKYO ｜ UPPER ARM LIPOSUCTION
Considering upper arm liposuction in Ginza, Tokyo? A consultation with Dr. Shin Moriwaki, director of AVAN TOKYO, is worth considering if you want to refine your arms despite a slim build, improve the transition between your arms, shoulders, underarms and back, or discuss loose skin after fat removal.
His approach combines experience in liposuction with assessment of fat thickness, muscles, bone structure and skin. Liposuction, skin-laxity treatments and, where appropriate, breast augmentation are considered as parts of an overall body-contouring plan.
How should you choose a doctor for upper arm liposuction in Tokyo? What should you look for beyond a recommendation or a reputation as a leading surgeon? This article explores Dr. Moriwaki’s cases, recovery videos, nine priorities in treatment planning, fees and risks.
Published by AVAN TOKYO Ginza Liposuction Clinic. Treating physician: Dr. Shin Moriwaki. Information reviewed on November 7, 2026. All procedures described are self-funded. A reputation alone is not a basis for choosing treatment: review cases similar to yours, explanations of suitability, anesthesia management and postoperative care.
This is the English edition of the clinic’s Japanese article. Audio in the original videos and text within the original images remain in Japanese. Linked source pages may also be in Japanese. All prices are in Japanese yen (JPY) and include tax unless otherwise stated.
Choosing a doctor for upper arm liposuction in Ginza, Tokyo
Look for both a design approach that matches your goals and the ability to assess whether those goals are achievable. Even in an apparently slim arm, the appropriate treatment depends on whether the concern comes from subcutaneous fat, muscle bulk or loose skin.
Dr. Moriwaki assesses more than the hanging portion at the back of the upper arm. He also considers shoulder projection, fullness at the front, bulges near the underarm and the transition into the back. The treatment area is discussed after reviewing how your arms look when relaxed in a sleeveless top, from the side and from behind.
| What to check when choosing a doctor | What you can discuss with Dr. Moriwaki |
|---|---|
| Are there cases with a body type similar to yours? | Upper arm cases in slim patients; combinations involving the full circumference, shoulders and accessory breast area; and cases combining skin-laxity treatments |
| Does the doctor explain what can and cannot change? | Design possibilities and limitations based on subcutaneous fat thickness, muscles, bone structure and excess skin |
| Are alternatives to liposuction considered? | Options including radiofrequency (RF) treatment, body thread lifts and excisional lifts |
| Can you seek advice after surgery? | A system in which the same treating physician follows you from consultation and surgery through postoperative examinations |
His doctor profile on Tribeau and treatment information on Gangnam Unni also describe contour planning for slim arms and an anatomy-based approach. The clinic’s Instagram and YouTube accounts show both case photographs and recovery progress. Compare the treatment areas, combined procedures and timing of photographs—details that follower counts and review scores cannot tell you.
Related information: Dr. Shin Moriwaki’s background and treatment philosophy / Tribeau doctor profile / Gangnam Unni treatment information. Appearance on an external platform does not constitute that platform’s guarantee of effectiveness or superiority.
Six upper arm liposuction cases by Dr. Shin Moriwaki
At AVAN TOKYO, “full-circumference upper arm” treatment includes the upper arms, shoulders and front of the upper arms. The accessory breast area, axillary fat, forearms and areas above and below the shoulder blades are considered separate treatment areas. When reviewing cases, look beyond arm size to the contour from shoulder to elbow, the transition between arm and torso, and the skin.
These photographs show individual patients’ progress. Some differ in posture, arm angle, clothing or lighting. Photographs alone do not allow precise measurement of the change, and the same outcome cannot be guaranteed.
CASE 01
Full-circumference upper arm liposuction | 1 month
This case involves contouring the shoulders and front of the arms as well as the back. It provides an example of changes in side-view thickness and the line from shoulder to elbow. Swelling and postoperative firmness may remain at 1 month. This stage should not be treated as the final result; progress is assessed over several months.
Procedure and fees This is elective, self-funded treatment. Full-circumference upper arm liposuction: JPY 650,000. The amounts are current standard procedure fees in Japanese yen (JPY), including tax, for reference; they are not the actual amounts paid by the patients pictured. Anesthesia, tests and compression garments are additional. Fees depend on the areas treated, body type and combined procedures.
Main risks and side effects Swelling, bruising, pain, fluid retention, postoperative firmness and tightness, numbness, asymmetry, contour irregularities, loose skin, pigmentation, scarring, infection, hematoma, burns and anemia. Rare but serious complications, including thromboembolism and fat embolism, can occur.
Results and recovery vary between individuals. Please also read fees and additional costs and risks and precautions.
CASE 02
Full-circumference upper arm liposuction + arm thread lift | 1 month
This case addresses both fat volume and drooping of the skin and soft tissues. The treatment differs from liposuction alone. Thread type, number and lifting direction are selected according to the skin’s condition; the same combination is not recommended for everyone.
Procedure and fees This is elective, self-funded treatment. Full-circumference upper arm liposuction: JPY 650,000, plus a body thread lift from JPY 39,800 per thread, depending on the thread type and number. The amounts are current standard procedure fees in Japanese yen (JPY), including tax, for reference; they are not the actual amounts paid by the patients pictured. Anesthesia, tests and compression garments are additional. Fees depend on the areas treated, body type and combined procedures.
Main risks and side effects Swelling, bruising, pain, fluid retention, postoperative firmness and tightness, numbness, asymmetry, contour irregularities, loose skin, pigmentation, scarring, infection, hematoma, burns and anemia. Rare but serious complications, including thromboembolism and fat embolism, can occur. Thread lifts also carry risks such as puckering, pulling sensations, thread exposure and infection.
Results and recovery vary between individuals. Please also read fees and additional costs and risks and precautions.
CASE 03
Upper arms, shoulders and accessory breast area + hybrid breast augmentation | 3 months
In this case, the wish for slimmer arms and the desired breast volume and shape were considered together as upper-body proportions. Assessing the transition from the front of the underarm to the breast allows a broader design discussion than considering the arm alone. Because breast augmentation was also performed, changes in the chest cannot be attributed solely to liposuction.
Procedure and fees This is elective, self-funded treatment. Reference procedure fees: upper arms + shoulders JPY 418,000; accessory breast area JPY 220,000; hybrid breast augmentation JPY 1,480,000. The total is calculated after checking fat-harvesting areas and any overlapping treatment areas. The amounts are current standard procedure fees in Japanese yen (JPY), including tax, for reference; they are not the actual amounts paid by the patients pictured. Anesthesia, tests and compression garments are additional. Fees depend on the areas treated, body type and combined procedures.
Main risks and side effects Swelling, bruising, pain, fluid retention, postoperative firmness and tightness, numbness, asymmetry, contour irregularities, loose skin, pigmentation, scarring, infection, hematoma, burns and anemia. Rare but serious complications, including thromboembolism and fat embolism, can occur. When breast augmentation is combined with liposuction, additional risks include fat nodules, calcification, fat necrosis, insufficient fat retention, implant displacement or rupture, capsular contracture and infection.
Results and recovery vary between individuals. Please also read fees and additional costs and risks and precautions.
CASE 04
Full-circumference upper arms + areas above and below the shoulder blades | 3 months
The view from behind depends on fullness around the shoulder blades and the boundary between the arms and back as well as arm size. This treatment includes the back. It is a useful reference when discussing which areas to assess together for a dress or an outfit with an open back.
Procedure and fees This is elective, self-funded treatment. Full-circumference upper arms: JPY 650,000; areas above + below the shoulder blades: JPY 448,000. The amounts are current standard procedure fees in Japanese yen (JPY), including tax, for reference; they are not the actual amounts paid by the patients pictured. Anesthesia, tests and compression garments are additional. Fees depend on the areas treated, body type and combined procedures.
Main risks and side effects Swelling, bruising, pain, fluid retention, postoperative firmness and tightness, numbness, asymmetry, contour irregularities, loose skin, pigmentation, scarring, infection, hematoma, burns and anemia. Rare but serious complications, including thromboembolism and fat embolism, can occur.
Results and recovery vary between individuals. Please also read fees and additional costs and risks and precautions.
CASE 05
Full-circumference upper arm liposuction | Everyday clothing at 3 months
This case shows the appearance of exposed arms in everyday clothing. Alongside standardized clinical photographs, discussing the clothes you want to wear and how you want your arms to look at rest helps make your goals more specific. Please also consider differences in clothing and posture between the photographs.
Procedure and fees This is elective, self-funded treatment. Full-circumference upper arm liposuction: JPY 650,000. The amounts are current standard procedure fees in Japanese yen (JPY), including tax, for reference; they are not the actual amounts paid by the patients pictured. Anesthesia, tests and compression garments are additional. Fees depend on the areas treated, body type and combined procedures.
Main risks and side effects Swelling, bruising, pain, fluid retention, postoperative firmness and tightness, numbness, asymmetry, contour irregularities, loose skin, pigmentation, scarring, infection, hematoma, burns and anemia. Rare but serious complications, including thromboembolism and fat embolism, can occur.
Results and recovery vary between individuals. Please also read fees and additional costs and risks and precautions.
CASE 06
Upper arm liposuction before a wedding | 3 months
A wedding dress may reveal the outer arms, the front of the underarms, shoulders and back at the same time. We discuss the dress style, pre-wedding photography and ceremony dates, poses with raised arms, and where incisions may be visible before deciding the treatment areas and timing. This is one example; not everyone will have the same recovery at 3 months.
Procedure and fees This is elective, self-funded treatment. Examples include upper arms JPY 278,000; upper arms + shoulders JPY 418,000; or full-circumference upper arms JPY 650,000, depending on the areas determined during examination. The amounts are current standard procedure fees in Japanese yen (JPY), including tax, for reference; they are not the actual amounts paid by the patients pictured. Anesthesia, tests and compression garments are additional. Fees depend on the areas treated, body type and combined procedures.
Main risks and side effects Swelling, bruising, pain, fluid retention, postoperative firmness and tightness, numbness, asymmetry, contour irregularities, loose skin, pigmentation, scarring, infection, hematoma, burns and anemia. Rare but serious complications, including thromboembolism and fat embolism, can occur.
Results and recovery vary between individuals. Please also read fees and additional costs and risks and precautions.
Would you like to discuss a case similar to yours?
Tell us the case number, the clothes you want to wear and the contour you hope to achieve.
Upper arm liposuction recovery: videos and photographs
Upper arm liposuction does not produce a finished result immediately after surgery. Pain, swelling and bruising occur early on, and fluid retention, firmness and tightness may persist. Appearance often settles over approximately 3–6 months, with assessment tailored to the skin and procedures performed.
The clinic’s videos show preoperative discussions, getting dressed after surgery, ease of arm movement and checks during follow-up examinations. These are records of specific patients. Do not assume their pain levels, return-to-work timing or compression and massage routines will apply to you; follow your own treating physician’s instructions.
Recovery video 1 | A 26-year-old patient, day 1 to 1 month
Watch on YouTube: Upper arm liposuction recovery diary: a 26-year-old patient
The day-by-day record shows both the immediate demands of recovery and changes in bruise color and arm movement. Notice that swelling and firmness are still being assessed at 1 month.
| Point in the video | What to look for |
|---|---|
| Day 1 (0:00) | Immediate postoperative pain and difficulty moving the arms. Arrange help with dressing and household tasks after returning home. |
| Day 2 (0:37) | Early swelling, bruising and daily movements. A reference when planning time off. |
| Day 4 (1:47) | Sensations when moving the arms and getting clothes on and off. |
| Day 6 (2:56) | Symptoms that remain after several days and how they change from day to day. |
| Day 7 (3:30) | Changes in bruise color. Visible recovery and healing beneath the skin do not proceed at the same speed. |
| Day 10 (5:16) | Daily activities and changes in fluid retention and tightness. |
| 1 month (14:58) | Both contour changes and remaining firmness or swelling, followed by further clinical review. |
Recovery video 2 | Full-circumference upper arm and axillary fat liposuction in a slim patient
Watch on YouTube: Upper arm liposuction and recovery in a slim, 24-year-old patient
This video follows a slim patient undergoing full-circumference upper arm and axillary fat liposuction. It includes the 1-month review (8:23) and 6-month review (10:35). The patient has a history of breast augmentation; that procedure is not presented as having been performed at the same time as this liposuction.
You do not need to rule out a consultation simply because you are already slim. Equally, being slim does not automatically make you a suitable candidate. Examination is needed to assess the fat available for removal and the tissue that must be preserved.
Recovery video 3 | Revision arm liposuction, thigh liposuction and hybrid breast augmentation
Watch on YouTube: Recovery after arm and thigh liposuction with hybrid breast augmentation
When multiple liposuction areas and breast augmentation are treated together, the locations of pain and the difficulty of sitting up or dressing differ from an arm-only procedure. This video includes recovery after a combination of revision arm liposuction, thigh liposuction and hybrid breast augmentation. It is a reference for combined surgery, not a standard recovery timeline for upper arm liposuction alone.
Procedure and fees This is elective, self-funded treatment. For videos 1 and 2, reference fees are JPY 650,000 for full-circumference upper arms and JPY 220,000 for the axillary area if included. Revision liposuction and multiple areas in video 3 require a quote after examination; the standard hybrid breast augmentation fee is JPY 1,480,000. The amounts are current standard procedure fees in Japanese yen (JPY), including tax, for reference; they are not the actual amounts paid by the patients pictured. Anesthesia, tests and compression garments are additional. Fees depend on the areas treated, body type and combined procedures.
Main risks and side effects Swelling, bruising, pain, fluid retention, postoperative firmness and tightness, numbness, asymmetry, contour irregularities, loose skin, pigmentation, scarring, infection, hematoma, burns and anemia. Rare but serious complications, including thromboembolism and fat embolism, can occur. When breast augmentation is combined with liposuction, additional risks include fat nodules, calcification, fat necrosis, insufficient fat retention, implant displacement or rupture, capsular contracture and infection.
Results and recovery vary between individuals. Please also read fees and additional costs and risks and precautions.
Recovery case 4 | Full-circumference arms, accessory breast area and areas above and below the shoulder blades at 3 months
This is the 3-month view after treatment extending from the upper arms through the underarms to the back. Look at the transition between arms and back as well as the appearance in everyday clothing. For multiple treatment areas, preparation also includes the extent of compression, the effort involved in moving and the follow-up schedule.
Procedure and fees This is elective, self-funded treatment. Full-circumference upper arms: JPY 650,000; accessory breast area: JPY 220,000; areas above + below the shoulder blades: JPY 448,000. The amounts are current standard procedure fees in Japanese yen (JPY), including tax, for reference; they are not the actual amounts paid by the patients pictured. Anesthesia, tests and compression garments are additional. Fees depend on the areas treated, body type and combined procedures.
Main risks and side effects Swelling, bruising, pain, fluid retention, postoperative firmness and tightness, numbness, asymmetry, contour irregularities, loose skin, pigmentation, scarring, infection, hematoma, burns and anemia. Rare but serious complications, including thromboembolism and fat embolism, can occur.
Results and recovery vary between individuals. Please also read fees and additional costs and risks and precautions.
Do not assume that all swelling or firmness is normal healing. Contact the clinic promptly for suddenly worsening pain, marked swelling on only one side, fever or an abnormal wound. Shortness of breath, chest pain or altered consciousness require emergency medical care.
Nine priorities in Dr. Moriwaki’s approach to upper arm liposuction
1. Applying experience from more than 5,000 liposuction procedures to individual planning
Dr. Moriwaki reports having performed more than 5,000 liposuction procedures in total (including previous positions; self-reported as of November 2026). This is not a count of upper arm procedures alone. Alongside experience, the emphasis is on adapting the plan to the individual patient.
People with the same BMI can have different fat distributions, muscle contours and skin elasticity. Focusing only on removing more fat can lead to problems with loose skin or uneven contours. The intended thickness of the remaining tissue and the areas to be treated are considered separately for a slim patient and for someone with more fat.
When a consultation may be useful: if a part of your upper arms bothers you despite a low body weight, or if you want slimmer arms while avoiding an unnatural, uneven contour. It is important to discuss differences between a reference photograph and your own anatomy.
2. Considering the upper arms, shoulders, accessory breast area and back as connected parts of the upper body
AVAN TOKYO offers liposuction for multiple body areas, including the abdomen, waist, back and thighs, as well as the upper arms. An arm consultation therefore also considers the transitions into the underarms and around the shoulder blades, aiming for continuity from the front, side and back.
Drawing on the concept of 360° High Definition Liposuction, Dr. Moriwaki examines the three-dimensional contours created by muscles and bone structure. “360°” does not mean that every patient needs full-circumference or whole-body treatment. Areas are selected according to your goals and examination findings.
Procedure and fees This is elective, self-funded treatment. Reference fees: full-circumference upper arms JPY 650,000; accessory breast area and axillary fat JPY 220,000 each; hybrid breast augmentation JPY 1,480,000. The total is calculated after checking overlapping fat-harvesting areas and other details. The amounts are current standard procedure fees in Japanese yen (JPY), including tax, for reference; they are not the actual amounts paid by the patients pictured. Anesthesia, tests and compression garments are additional. Fees depend on the areas treated, body type and combined procedures.
Main risks and side effects Swelling, bruising, pain, fluid retention, postoperative firmness and tightness, numbness, asymmetry, contour irregularities, loose skin, pigmentation, scarring, infection, hematoma, burns and anemia. Rare but serious complications, including thromboembolism and fat embolism, can occur. When breast augmentation is combined with liposuction, additional risks include fat nodules, calcification, fat necrosis, insufficient fat retention, implant displacement or rupture, capsular contracture and infection.
Results and recovery vary between individuals. Please also read fees and additional costs and risks and precautions.
3. Using ultrasound to assess fat thickness beyond appearance alone
It can be difficult to judge upper arm thickness from appearance or a pinch test alone. Dr. Moriwaki uses ultrasound to examine the thickness of the subcutaneous fat layer and considers the findings together with BMI, age and skin elasticity.
A thin fat layer cannot be treated in the same way as a thick one. Sharing objective findings helps distinguish fullness caused by fat from that caused by muscle or bone structure, making it easier to discuss the changes liposuction may achieve. Ultrasound does not eliminate risks such as contour irregularities or injury to nerves or blood vessels.
4. Working with anesthesiologists and plastic surgeons for combined procedures
Extensive liposuction or surgery combined with an excisional lift requires assessment of general health and management of operating time as well as liposuction technique. Depending on the procedure, the clinic can arrange anesthesia and systemic management by a specialist anesthesiologist and excisional lifting by a plastic surgeon.
For someone considering combined surgery, one relevant factor is the team’s ability to coordinate the separate tasks of reducing fat, managing excess skin and monitoring the patient during surgery. The physicians involved, anesthesia method and scope of same-day treatment are confirmed before surgery.
View the physicians and clinical team
5. Choosing between RF, thread lifts and excisional lifts for loose skin
Liposuction can reduce fat without adequately resolving excess skin. Dr. Moriwaki evaluates skin excess and its ability to retract before surgery, and discusses additional treatments where appropriate.
| Main concern | Options to consider | Points to explain |
|---|---|---|
| Mild laxity, texture or thickness | RF treatments such as Morpheus8 Burst | Treatment intended to tighten tissue through heat. Its scope of effect differs from surgical removal of excess skin. |
| Drooping tissues and support for the contour | Body thread lift | Direction of support and number of threads are considered. There are risks of puckering and thread-related problems, and limits to durability. |
| Substantial excess skin | Excisional body lift | Excess skin is removed. The potential improvement must be weighed against scar length and position. |
Mild, moderate and severe are ways to organize the discussion, not categories assigned mechanically from a photograph. If methods are combined, the purpose and burden of each additional treatment are explained individually.
This case combines procedures for several concerns: fat thickness, excess skin and soft-tissue support. The changes should be understood in the context of the complete treatment plan and 8 months of recovery, rather than attributed to a single device or liposuction alone.
Procedure and fees This is elective, self-funded treatment. Reference fees: full-circumference upper arms JPY 650,000; forearms JPY 378,000; short-incision arm lift JPY 698,000; bi-needle threads JPY 55,000 each × four threads in total; Morpheus8 standard fee JPY 148,000 per session. The quote depends on the treatment area, number of sessions and combination conditions. The amounts are current standard procedure fees in Japanese yen (JPY), including tax, for reference; they are not the actual amounts paid by the patients pictured. Anesthesia, tests and compression garments are additional. Fees depend on the areas treated, body type and combined procedures.
Main risks and side effects Swelling, bruising, pain, fluid retention, postoperative firmness and tightness, numbness, asymmetry, contour irregularities, loose skin, pigmentation, scarring, infection, hematoma, burns and anemia. Rare but serious complications, including thromboembolism and fat embolism, can occur. Excisional lifts also carry risks of wound separation and hypertrophic scarring; thread lifts carry risks of puckering and thread exposure; RF carries risks of burns and pigmentation changes.
Results and recovery vary between individuals. Please also read fees and additional costs and risks and precautions.
Related procedures: Body thread lift / Excisional body lift
6. Following recovery over time, including visits, scars and daily life
Assessment does not end on the day of liposuction. The clinic generally schedules reviews at 1 week, 1 month, 3 months and 6 months to assess swelling, firmness and skin condition. Further consultations can help determine whether additional treatment is needed or whether more healing time is appropriate.
Postoperative support also considers practical needs: advice on transport services; nutritional support such as zinc, copper and vitamins according to nutritional status; assessment and prescriptions for scars; and dermatologic treatment events for previous patients. Eligibility, costs and timing vary by service.
Medication such as Rizaben and supplements are not necessary for everyone. Their use is determined by a physician after reviewing medical conditions, current medication and the state of the scar. Supplements alone cannot be promised to speed recovery or make scars disappear.
Official announcement for postoperative patients (X). Event details and benefits may change.
7. Considering breast augmentation with harvested fat when it suits your goals
If you want slimmer upper arms and a change in breast volume or shape, you can discuss fat-transfer breast augmentation or hybrid breast augmentation as part of the same plan. Hybrid augmentation combines silicone implants with fat grafting.
The upper arms alone may not provide enough fat for the desired injection volume. The plan takes into account harvestable volume, the recipient tissues, the physical burden of surgery and individual differences in fat survival. The aim is not to remove excessive fat from the arms simply to supply breast augmentation.
Procedure and fees This is elective, self-funded treatment. Standard fees include JPY 1,048,000 for the upper, lower and lateral abdomen, JPY 448,000 for the waist if included, and fat-transfer breast augmentation at JPY 798,000 with one harvesting area or JPY 948,000 with two. The total is calculated after checking overlapping harvesting areas and the processing method. The amounts are current standard procedure fees in Japanese yen (JPY), including tax, for reference; they are not the actual amounts paid by the patients pictured. Anesthesia, tests and compression garments are additional. Fees depend on the areas treated, body type and combined procedures.
Main risks and side effects Swelling, bruising, pain, fluid retention, postoperative firmness and tightness, numbness, asymmetry, contour irregularities, loose skin, pigmentation, scarring, infection, hematoma, burns and anemia. Rare but serious complications, including thromboembolism and fat embolism, can occur. Fat-transfer breast augmentation carries risks including nodules, calcification, fat necrosis, infection, asymmetry and insufficient fat retention.
Results and recovery vary between individuals. Please also read fees and additional costs and risks and precautions.
Procedure and fees This is elective, self-funded treatment. Reference fees: upper arms + shoulders JPY 418,000; accessory breast area JPY 220,000; hybrid breast augmentation JPY 1,480,000. The total is calculated after checking overlapping harvesting areas and other details. The amounts are current standard procedure fees in Japanese yen (JPY), including tax, for reference; they are not the actual amounts paid by the patients pictured. Anesthesia, tests and compression garments are additional. Fees depend on the areas treated, body type and combined procedures.
Main risks and side effects Swelling, bruising, pain, fluid retention, postoperative firmness and tightness, numbness, asymmetry, contour irregularities, loose skin, pigmentation, scarring, infection, hematoma, burns and anemia. Rare but serious complications, including thromboembolism and fat embolism, can occur. When breast augmentation is combined with liposuction, additional risks include fat nodules, calcification, fat necrosis, insufficient fat retention, implant displacement or rupture, capsular contracture and infection.
Results and recovery vary between individuals. Please also read fees and additional costs and risks and precautions.
8. Grounding three-dimensional planning in anatomy and continued learning
Upper arm contour depends on muscles, bone structure and skin as well as the amount of fat. Dr. Moriwaki bases his planning on anatomy and participates in training in Japan and overseas, conference presentations and collaborative writing.
At IMCAS ASIA 2025, he presented on combining upper arm liposuction with a thread lift. His continuing activities also include co-authoring the facial rejuvenation book “FACE IN HARMONY” and overseas training in body procedures. Conference presentations and training histories describe educational activities; they do not by themselves prove the effectiveness of a particular procedure or superiority over another clinic.
Background, qualifications and academic activities / Report on the IMCAS ASIA 2025 presentation
9. Selecting local anesthesia, intravenous sedation or general anesthesia for the planned surgery
The anesthesia method is chosen according to the treatment areas, any simultaneous procedures and your general health. The clinic offers local anesthesia, intravenous sedation and general anesthesia, with specialist anesthesiologist management available for discussion, including for extensive procedures.
Each method has indications and risks. Being asleep does not make surgery risk-free, and general anesthesia does not provide an absolute guarantee of safety. Planning includes medical history, allergies, medication and preoperative tests, as well as intraoperative management and recovery assessment before discharge. Whether a specialist anesthesiologist will be involved, and the related fees, are explained before surgery.
Upper arm liposuction incisions and scars: planning before a wedding
Liposuction requires small incisions through which a cannula is inserted. Possible locations include around the elbows and underarms, but their position and number depend on the treatment areas, existing scars and skin condition. During consultation, ask to see the proposed locations and discuss their visibility in everyday clothing or your dress.
Redness and pigmentation of scars take time to settle, and some people develop hypertrophic scars. It is not possible to promise “no scars.” Tape, topical treatment or oral medication may be recommended according to the wound’s condition.
If an excisional lift is added, skin removal creates an additional scar beyond the small liposuction incisions. Review what can be treated with a short incision and what requires a longer one, weighing improvement in laxity against the resulting scar.
Bring both dates, photographs of the dress, your available time off and travel plans if attending from far away. Allow several months for contour and scars to settle, and seek advice early rather than planning surgery immediately before the event. Whether your schedule is realistic depends on the procedures and your individual recovery.
The roles of LSSA, Morpheus8 Burst and Profound Matrix
LSSA | One option for assisting liposuction
LSSA uses ultrasound to act on fatty tissue and assist liposuction. The clinic considers its use according to the area and characteristics of the fat. A device name alone does not determine the result: the tissue layers and areas treated, the fat preserved and the handling of skin are important.
Ultrasound-assisted treatment still carries risks including burns, tissue damage and contour irregularities. It cannot be described as invariably better than other devices or guaranteed to shorten recovery. Its purpose and additional cost should be confirmed before choosing it.
Morpheus8 Burst | RF treatment tailored to the skin and subcutaneous tissue
InMode Morpheus8 Burst delivers radiofrequency energy through microneedles. The need for treatment and its timing are considered after assessing skin laxity, thickness and other factors after liposuction. Treatment depth varies with the tip, settings and area.
Profound Matrix | An option for skin laxity and texture
Profound Matrix is another treatment option that delivers RF through a needle-based tip. The clinic considers whether it or Morpheus8 Burst is more appropriate based on differences in skin laxity, texture and fat thickness.
RF is not necessarily a substitute for an excisional lift that directly removes excess skin. Risks include redness, swelling, pain, bleeding and crusting, as well as burns, infection, pigmentation changes and scarring. Suitability, number of sessions and timing are discussed individually.
Treatment details: Morpheus8 Burst / Profound Matrix
Upper arm liposuction prices: compare treatment areas and total cost
When comparing prices, first check that the same areas are included in “upper arm liposuction.” At AVAN TOKYO, fees differ for the upper arms, shoulders, front of the arms and full circumference. Anesthesia, tests and compression garments are additional.
| Treatment area | Standard price (JPY, tax included) | Case-photo participant price (JPY, tax included) |
|---|---|---|
| Upper arms | 278,000 | 218,000 |
| Upper arms + shoulders | 418,000 | 318,000 |
| Front of the upper arms | 298,000 | 218,000 |
| Full-circumference upper arms (upper arms + shoulders + front) | 650,000 | 498,000 |
| Forearms | 378,000 | 298,000 |
| Accessory breast area, axillary fat or below the axilla (each area) | 220,000 | 150,000 |
| Areas above + below the shoulder blades | 448,000 | 368,000 |
Reference anesthesia fees: intravenous sedation JPY 55,000; intravenous sedation managed by a specialist anesthesiologist JPY 110,000; general anesthesia managed by a specialist anesthesiologist JPY 220,000. Confirm the costs of tests, compression garments, combined treatments and other items in your quote.
For example, the standard full-circumference upper arm fee of JPY 650,000 plus intravenous sedation at JPY 55,000 gives a procedure-and-anesthesia subtotal of JPY 705,000. This is not the final total including tests, garments and other charges. BMI-related adjustments apply: the official fee schedule lists a 1.5 multiplier for BMI 25–29 and a 2 multiplier for BMI 30 or above. Confirm which charges are subject to the adjustment during consultation.
LSSA is listed at JPY 50,000 for one area or JPY 150,000 for three or more areas. Morpheus8 and Profound Matrix are generally listed at a standard JPY 148,000 per session. Costs vary with areas, number of sessions and combination conditions. Discounted “monitor” or case-photo participant rates require conditions such as photography and publication; review these conditions before deciding.
Checked November 7, 2026. Latest official fee schedule / Estimated total including anesthesia, tests and compression garments. Campaigns and external booking platforms may have terms that differ from standard official pricing.
Upper arm liposuction risks and situations requiring careful assessment
Upper arm liposuction is elective, self-funded surgery to reduce subcutaneous fat and reshape the contour. It is not a treatment for major weight loss and does not make muscles or bones themselves smaller. If your desired change differs from what surgery can achieve, the treatment approach should be reconsidered.
Main risks:Swelling, bruising, pain, fluid retention, postoperative firmness and tightness, numbness, asymmetry, contour irregularities, loose skin, pigmentation, scarring, infection, hematoma, burns and anemia. Rare but serious complications, including thromboembolism and fat embolism, can occur. Anesthesia-related allergic reactions and respiratory or circulatory problems also require consideration. Further assessment or treatment may be needed depending on the result or asymmetry.
- Very thin subcutaneous fat: the removable volume is limited, and excessive removal may cause contour or skin problems.
- Substantial excess skin: loose skin may remain or become more noticeable after liposuction alone, so options including excisional surgery are compared.
- Previous liposuction at another clinic: adhesions, tissue condition and the areas and timing of the earlier surgery are reviewed. Correctability cannot be determined from photographs alone.
- Medical conditions or regular medication: general health and test results may require postponing or declining surgery, or changing the areas or anesthesia method.
References on general risks and recovery: American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS): Liposuction Risks and Safety / Recovery
Frequently asked questions about upper arm liposuction
Q. How should I choose a doctor for upper arm liposuction in Tokyo?
Look for cases involving a body type similar to yours, clear explanations of treatment areas and combinations, realistic limitations, anesthesia management and follow-up care. Do not decide solely on labels such as “leading doctor,” recommendations or case numbers. Make sure the treating physician understands your goals in specific terms.
Q. What goals can I discuss with Dr. Shin Moriwaki?
You can discuss refining the upper arms despite a slim build, improving transitions to the shoulders, accessory breast area and back, addressing loose skin as well as fat, or considering upper-body balance with breast augmentation. Suitability is determined through examination.
Q. Can I have liposuction if I am already slim?
A slim person may be a candidate if there is localized subcutaneous fat. BMI alone is not enough to decide. Fat thickness, muscles, bone structure, excess skin and general health are assessed, with an explanation of what can be removed and what needs to remain.
Q. What is the difference between upper arm treatment and full-circumference treatment?
At this clinic, full-circumference treatment includes the upper arms, shoulders and front of the upper arms. Its scope differs from treatment of the upper arms alone. The accessory breast area, axillary fat, forearms and areas above and below the shoulder blades are separate areas. The choice depends on which fullness concerns you from the front, side and back.
Q. Will my skin become loose after upper arm liposuction?
Skin may be left loose depending on elasticity, age, fat volume and treatment areas. This is assessed before surgery, with RF, thread lifts or excisional lifts considered where appropriate. Loose skin cannot always be prevented, and RF alone may not resolve it.
Q. When can I return to work?
Timing differs between desk work and jobs that involve lifting or raising the arms. Dressing and travel can also be difficult early in recovery, so discuss your work and available days off in advance. You may not be ready to return on the same schedule as a patient in a video.
Q. How many months does it take to see the final result?
Appearance often settles over approximately 3–6 months, but changes in firmness, skin and scars may continue longer. Do not assume at 1 month that there is residual fat or a failed result. An examination helps distinguish swelling, postoperative firmness and remaining fat.
Q. How far in advance of a wedding should I seek advice?
Seek advice early and allow several months, including time before pre-wedding photography. Surgery close to the ceremony leaves little room to manage swelling or scar changes. We discuss a realistic schedule based on the procedures needed and the areas exposed by your dress.
Q. Can fat from my upper arms be used for breast augmentation?
It can be considered if the tissue and overall circumstances are suitable. Depending on the amount available and the desired injection volume, harvesting from other areas or a different approach may be needed. Fat retention varies, and a particular breast size cannot be guaranteed.
Q. Can I discuss unevenness or loose skin after liposuction elsewhere?
Yes. Bring information about the timing, treated areas, devices used and postoperative course. Examination helps determine whether you are still healing and should wait, or whether treatment of remaining fat, adhesions or excess skin should be considered.
Q. What should I keep in mind when reading reviews and social media?
Check the procedure, treating physician, timing of photographs, combined treatments, posture and photography conditions. Reviews describe individual experiences and do not guarantee the same outcome. Fees and follow-up requirements may have changed since a post was published, so confirm current information with the clinic.
Dr. Moriwaki’s philosophy: discuss your ideal arms and what treatment can achieve
Dr. Moriwaki regards aesthetic treatment as a choice that should support satisfaction in everyday life. For upper arm liposuction, planning considers more than a numerical reduction in circumference. It also includes the clothes you want to wear, the silhouette you like, everyday movement and upcoming commitments.
Someone prioritizing slimness, someone preferring a natural contour and someone seeking improvement in loose skin may need different treatments. Consultation covers your goals, suitability and limitations, the need for combined procedures, costs and recovery. Helping you leave with enough information to decide whether to proceed is also part of care.
Treating physician: Dr. Shin Moriwaki (森脇進)
Director, AVAN TOKYO Ginza Liposuction Clinic. Graduated from the Faculty of Medicine, Tokushima University, in 2019. His practice includes liposuction, fat-transfer breast augmentation and hybrid breast augmentation. VASER Lipo-certified physician and ECFMG Certificate holder. For details of his career, qualifications and affiliations, see the doctor profile.
This section is an editorial introduction based on his published treatment philosophy, not a verbatim quotation of his words.
What to share during your consultation
- The areas that concern you and case photographs close to your goals
- The clothes or wedding dress you want to wear, and photography or wedding dates
- Previous procedures such as liposuction, thread lifts or breast augmentation
- Medical conditions, medication, allergies, available time off and follow-up plans
- Your budget and whether you are considering skin-laxity treatment or breast augmentation alongside liposuction
Discuss upper arm liposuction in Ginza, Tokyo
Explore an approach suited to your fat, skin and bone structure with Dr. Shin Moriwaki.
AVAN TOKYO Ginza Liposuction Clinic
DEAR GINZA 3F, 1-6-8 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
Telephone: 03-5915-4731 / Hours: 10:00–19:00; irregular closing days
Access and directions
Explore more cases and information about the practice
- Upper arm liposuction procedure details / Fee schedule
- Liposuction Instagram / Breast augmentation Instagram
- Dr. Moriwaki’s liposuction YouTube channel / X (formerly Twitter) / TikTok
- Case diaries and reviews on Tribeau / Treatment information on Gangnam Unni
This article provides general procedure information and describes the clinic’s treatment philosophy. Individual suitability, the treatment plan and total fees are determined after examination and preoperative testing. Case numbers, prices and clinical arrangements reflect the information review date.