Pain of elbow after arm lift surgery 5 days ago, is this normal?

Question

Hi.. I have had an operation arms lift 5 days ago and I feel pain in my right arm elbow only when I move it up and bend it .. The pain is in the bones with a cold hand Is this normal?

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for the questions regarding elbow pain five days after an arm lift or brachioplasty. Pain after a brachioplasty is not uncommon. Typically, patients experience pain in the armpit and in the elbow. These are areas of motion. Elbow and armpit pain is due to compression of the nerve and swelling causing compression of the nerves. Direct nerve compression is caused by the surgical closure. Indirect nerve compression is caused by swelling. Swelling is a natural reaction to healing. I would take your prescribed pain medication if your pain is not relieved, for your post-op arm pain, contact your plastic surgeon. You stated that your hand is cold, this is not normal. If your hand is cold, you need to contact your plastic surgeon. This may be an emergency. However, it is extremely rare. Either way, it is important for you to contact your plastic surgeon. Thank you for your questions regarding pain in the elbow after an arm lift. When seeking an arm lift (brachioplasty) procedure, please seek an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon. Travel if you must. If you have any other questions regarding arm lift surgery or plastic surgery, please call my office.
  Sincerely, 
  
Dr. Katzen

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

It is normal to have pain after  surgery ,but cold hands is concerning please see your PS asap to be examined. best of luck

Aldo Guerra, MD · Answer

Congratulations on your recent arm lift surgery. Obviously, some pain after the surgery is normal, but the cold hand is a concern. I would suggest you be examined by your plastic surgeon as soon as you can.Good luck. Dr. ALDO

Gary L. Ross, MBChB, FRCS · Answer

I would run your concerns past your PS. Pain is not unusual although a cold hand is not a usual postop issue.

Steven Varkony, MD · Answer

Pain following any kind of surgery is to be expected.
However, without a physical examination, it’s impossible to tell what the cause
of the cold hand could be. We recommend scheduling a consultation with your
plastic surgeon to further address your concerns.

Pain of elbow after arm lift surgery 5 days ago, is this normal?

Answers (5)

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