I am on day 10 after brachioplasty with liposuction and I am still experiencing a burning sensation in both arms.

Question

I am on day 10 after brachioplasty with liposuction and I am still experiencing a burning sensation in both arms. With walking longer in duration than 10 minutes, my arms begin to feel tight and I have tingling Sensations in the forearm and wrist, with tightness and burning in the upper arm.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question regarding a burning sensations on both arms ten days after a brachioplasty or arm lift. It is not uncommon to have a burning sensation in both arms after a brachioplasty with liposuction. Typically, this is due to swelling. Certain arm positions or normal healing can cause swelling in the arm. Swelling can lead to tightness and nerve compression. Nerve compression can present as hand and forearm tingling and then progress to numbness. Before the arm or hand tingle, nerve compression can also be experienced as a burning type of pain. You described when you are walking for more than 10 minutes your arms feel tight and numb. This is probably because your arms are by your side and fluid is collecting in your hands, forearms, elbows, upper arms, and finally, armpits. Instead, I would suggest you walk with your arms upright with your elbow straight and hands above your heart. It could also be that your ace bandage might be to tight around the armpit region leading to direct compression of nerves or indirect comparison of the arm nerves due to swelling. Either way, it is really important to follow up with your plastic surgeon. When seeking arm lift surgery, please seek an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon. Travel out of state if you have to. I hope I have answered your questions regarding arm lifts and burning arm sensations after an arm lift. If you have any other questions regarding arm lifts, post-op care, or plastic surgery, please call my office.
Thanks!
Dr. Timothy Katzen

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question, this burning sensation you feel is normal after 10 days post op this can take a few weeks just be patient and continue to follow up with your PS.

Aldo Guerra, MD · Answer

I appreciate your concern.Burning sensations can be normal up to a certain level. This is usually due to tissue sensitivity and tightness. I would suggest you speak to your surgeon and consider gabapentin.Good luck. Dr. ALDO

Tania Medina de Garcia, MD · Answer

Hello Dear
 remember that you are still 
early on healing process. for now that burning sensation is normal. The healing process depends on each patient, most of the time is
 between 6 months and one year to see the final results.  
  
Good luck :)

Steven Varkony, MD · Answer

Sensations after surgery are not uncommon. This is mostly
due to swelling, which will subside over time. It’s important that you’re
following your surgeon’s post-operative care instructions to ensure the best
results. It is best to follow up with your plastic surgeon to further discuss
your concerns.

Gary L. Ross, MBChB, FRCS · Answer

This is not unusual and these symptoms will usually resolve over the coming weeks. Keep in touch with your PS.

I am on day 10 after brachioplasty with liposuction and I am still experiencing a burning sensation in both arms.

Answers (6)

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