Nerve damage during breast augmentation? Could this have been due to incorrect positioning of arms?

Question

A week after I had a breast augmentation, I noticed when I swing my arm back I get a tingling sensation in my right hand. About 3weeks after, I began having tingling pins and needles in that hand no matter the position. I have had implants removed after 50 days. Now its about 2 and a half months after the onset of symptoms. What is the likelihood a peripheral nerve was damaged. Could this have been due to incorrect positioning of arms. Also my right is hand having burning sensation too.

Gregory Mesna, MD, FACS · Answer

It sounds as though your symptoms are suggestive of a peripheral nerve compression or injury however it is difficult to accurately asses the level of injury from your description alone. A careful and thorough history and examination, along with some additional information regarding augmentation size and approach as well as some nerve conduction studies may be helpful in localizing the problem and establishing a treatment plan for you. I would encourage you to start with your plastic surgeon to see if this is something that he or she will be comfortable treating for you or if they know of someone else that that they would refer you to for additional help.

Don W. Griffin, MD · Answer

Nerve impingement to the ulnar nerve can occur due to arm positioning with breast augmentation, but these symptoms would occur immediately after surgery, not three weeks later. The nerves to your arm run from your neck through tissue deep in your shoulder and would not be injured during the procedure. It is more likely that you have some cervical disc issues or carpal tunnel syndrome that may have been undiagnosed before your surgery and are flaring up now. You should see your PCP or a spine specialist to be evaluated for your symptoms. I don't think that your implants had anything to do with your current symptoms.

Karol A. Gutowski, MD, FACS · Answer

The first step is to establish a diagnosis for the nerve symptoms. Some patients have mild carpal tunnel syndrome that gets worse with surgery. Ask your plastic surgeon for an evaluation.

Nerve damage during breast augmentation? Could this have been due to incorrect positioning of arms?

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Nerve damage during breast augmentation? Could this have been due to incorrect positioning of arms?

Answers (3)

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Everything you need to know about Breast Implants

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.