Can decreased sensation in the arm return after brachioplasty?

Question

I had a brachioplasty in March 2022. I am coming up on a year next month. Assuming it’s the brachial nerve, but since my surgery, I have decreased sensation in that area in both arms. If you pinched me in that area, I would barely even feel it. Is there a chance this can improve over more time? Thanks

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Dear Lunate,

Thanks for reaching out with your concern. Decreased sensation after a brachioplasty, or arm lift, is not uncommon. This occurs because the procedure involves the repositioning of skin and fat that can sometimes disturb the small sensory nerves in your skin.

The good news is, in many cases, this numbness or decreased sensation is temporary. Nerve regeneration can occur, and sensation can improve over time. However, the rate of recovery can vary significantly from person to person, with some people experiencing a return of sensation within a few months and others taking a year or more. In some rare cases, the loss of sensation can be permanent, particularly if the nerve was significantly injured during the surgery.

Since you're nearing the one-year post-op mark, it's possible that you could still see some improvement in sensation. It would be beneficial to discuss your concern with your plastic surgeon, as they can give you a more accurate assessment based on your specific surgery and recovery thus far. They might also be able to recommend therapies or treatments to help with nerve regeneration.

Remember, it's important to have patience, as nerve recovery is a slow process.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Ryan Rebowe, MD · Answer

It is common to have some manner of sensory neuropraxia, or decreased sensation, in this distribution following brachioplasty. This sensation typically returns within 3-6 months following your procedure. If it has not returned within 1 year of your procedure, it is likely permanent, however things can improve slightly over time.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

It is common to experience diminished (or loss of) skin sensation in areas that have had surgery (upper arm, armpit). It is rare to experience permanent changes in sensation in the hands and forearms after brachioplasty, but it is possible. There is a small risk of motor nerve injury which may result in impairment of upper extremity/hand function. See a neurologist for a nerve conduction test.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Since you are almost a year, your sensation will probably not return. This is a risk of this procedure that your surgeon discussed with your during the consultation or preop visit.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Changes in sensation are a risk of an arm lift procedure.  Often times sensation returns after swelling resolves and healing continues.  For those that are still experiencing numbness or decreased sensation after a year the change is likely permanent.

Can decreased sensation in the arm return after brachioplasty?

Answers (5)

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