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Breast reduction - why do I have underarm numbness? (photo)

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jazzychrissyMay 7, 2017
I'm 5 days post op and seem to be healing well. I had drains for the first 3 days but they were removed at my post op appointment. I've recently noticed that my armpit and underarm (down to about midway to my elbow) is completely numb. I can't feel anything when I touch it. This is the case on BOTH ARMS It's making mobility of my shoulders difficult. What could this be?

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Dr. John Paletta, MD
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Answered on May 9, 2017
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Dr. Jack Peterson, MD
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Answered on May 9, 2017
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Robert Drielsma, MBBS, BSc, FRACS

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Understandably you were alarmed to see some “fishing line” after all this time.  Its probably just some of the permanent sutures which has decided to work its way out.  It shouldn’t be causing you to be unwell.  Simply trim it at the base close to your skin (carefully) and keep doing this unt...

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