9 wks post op brachioplasty. Help with arm pains? I'm having a lot of the nerve pains like pins and needles and numbness (photo)

Question

I've tried aleve and it only helps alittle. I know it takes time to get fully recovered from the pain and swelling. Thanks so much for any suggestions!

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi Islandsweeie72, Thank you for your questions about pins, needles, and numbness after your arm lift or brachioplasty.  Pins and needles after an arm lift are not uncommon. Pins and needles are a sign of nerve compression.  After an arm lift, nerves get compressed due to swelling or edema.  Is very important to differentiate localized nerve pain from generalized nerve pain.  If you have generalized pain and swelling, this can be "normal" after an arm lift.  Numbness is different and is concerning. If all your fingers are numb, this means the entire arm is swollen and all the nerves are compressed.  However, if you have localized numbness to just your ring and small finger, this is more concerning.  Numbness of your ring and small finger could suggest involvement of your ulnar nerve.  However, this is very rare.  Because you have numbness, it  is are important for you to follow up with your plastic surgeon.  I would suggest arm compression for at least 6 weeks after your arm lift.  Also, you may need a diuretic or fluid pill, however, please first check with your plastic surgeon. I would also suggest arm elevation.  Arm elevation means, while wearing your arm garment, you keep your elbows straight and your hands above your heart.  You should also open and close your hands to force fluid out of your hands.   I hope that I have answered your questions regarding pins, needles, and numbness after an arm lift or brachioplasty. Good luck!  If you have any other questions about an arm lift or a brachioplasty, please contact my office.  Sincerely, Dr. Katzen.

Francis Johns, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.It appears everything is healing very well. Are you still wearing compression? I have found that sometimes wearing the compression can help with the discomfort you are feeling from the nerves regenerating. You can also try come Ibuprofen or Motrin to help with inflammation, that may calm it down. Good luck with healing, you look great!

9 wks post op brachioplasty. Help with arm pains? I'm having a lot of the nerve pains like pins and needles and numbness (photo)

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9 wks post op brachioplasty. Help with arm pains? I'm having a lot of the nerve pains like pins and needles and numbness (photo)

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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.