Finger swelling months after arm lift. What is causing this?

Question

I had a successful arm lift about 7 months ago. About 4 months after my surgery two fingers on my right hand started to swell, and have pretty much stayed this way. Otherwise there is absolutely no other swelling. What could be causing this? Is it possible that as scar tissue has developed below my visible scar, that scar tissue may be blocking lymphatic flow? I exercise regularly and do lymphatic massages about once/month.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question regarding finger swelling several months after an arm lifts and what could be causing your finger swelling. What you are describing certainly sounds like lymphedema. Lymphedema is swelling due to blocked lymphatic flow. The blocked lymphatic flow can be due to many conditions, including surgery. Though extremely rare, lymphedema can occur after brachioplasty. Lymphedema can occur in the fingers, hands, wrists, forearms, and upper arm after a brachioplasty. I suggest seeing a lymphatic specialist for deep tissue massage and treatment. They may apply pressure garments and mechanisms to stimulate lymphatic flow. Therefore, I think your finger swelling is due to your arm's lift. Please consult with a lymphatic specialist. Your lymphatic massages should be done in 2-3 weeks, not once a month. Thank you for your question regarding finger swelling several months after an arm lifts and what could be causing your finger swelling. 
Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Earl Stephenson, Jr., MD, DDS, MBA · Answer

Brachioplasty can disrupt the lymphatic flow of the arm and hand.  You may more formal lymphatic drainage management with a compression glove and/or consult with a hand specialist.  Swelling in the fingers can render them stiff and not very effective.  Secondly, this persistent swelling may lead to a difficult pain syndrome called RSD (reflex sympathetic dsytrophy).Earl Stephenson, Jr, MD, DDS,FACS

Eric Desman, MD · Answer

This is likely due to lymphatic drainage that has changed since surgery. I recommend you see your surgeon to discuss options. Sometimes wearing a compression sleeve will help. Sometimes physical therapy can help. Sometimes deep massage can help. It would be best to see your plastic surgeon to review & re-assess. Good luck.

Jeffrey Zwiren, MD · Answer

If there was lymphatic obstruction due to the arm lift then I would expect your whole hand and forearm to be swollen as well.  If this is a concern I would have your physician examine your extremity.

Finger swelling months after arm lift. What is causing this?

Answers (4)

Answer: Finger swelling after a brachioplasty

Answer: Finger swelling after a brachioplasty

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Everything you need to know about Arm Lift

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Finger swelling months after arm lift. What is causing this?

Answers (4)

Answer: Finger swelling after a brachioplasty

Answer: Finger swelling after a brachioplasty

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Everything you need to know about Arm Lift

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