How common is it to have residual nerve pain or compartment syndrome after cosmetic procedures? (photo)

Dear ElleH525,
when you do the tummy tuck, you cut some of the loose skin and there is a chance that some nerves will be also cut. This can cause which is temporary in most cases and resolves with time. Compartment syndrome occurs after injuries of extremities when blood can't get out and causes increase of pressure inside compartments. Armlift removes excess skin from arms and it doesn't affect structures inside compartments so the chance of compartment syndrome is really low. If you are considering a surgery, I would suggest you to consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

numbness is typical in some areas after a tummy tuck but most of  the feeling comes back.  A compartment syndrome could occur on an arm lift if it is made too tight which might also explain your fruend’s Symptoms although it doesn’t sound like a true compartment syndrome.  From your photo  not sure you need the arm lift .  Very large scar that can be quite noticeable.  You need a lot of looseness to make an arm lift witthwhile.

Hi, thank you for your question. 
I’m so sorry to hear about your friend’s complications. Thankfully, these are very rare and in the case of a compartment syndrome, unheard of. 
Temporary sensory changes below the belly button after TT, and medial arm after brachioplasty are possible, but less aggressive & more careful technique can avoid these also. 
If you are generally healthy, you would be a great candidate for abdominoplasty. Make sure to consult with a board certified plastic surgeon. 
I hope this helps. Best of luck!