One week after lipoma surgery. I know I’ll have pain but am I going to feel more with my Fibromyalgia? (photos)

Question

It’s been one week after my lipoma surgery.The size was 6x8cm.I stopped taking my Gabapentin due to depression it was causing.I now only take muscle relaxers.I’m under constant care of my diagnosing neurologist for the fibromyalgia.I never really can tell my pain anymore.Is it “real” or just heightened nerves from the FMS?All I know is I have a huge void,I’m a dental assistant, and my arm aches and throbs all day since surgery:with or without use.Of course, more pain with use.What can I do?

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question and photographs and I am sorry to hear of your difficulties after surgery.  I would talk with your surgeon and neurologist to discuss medication options to improve your current symptoms as additional healing should hopefully improve your pain.  If they are at a loss perhaps a referral to a pain specialist is in order.  Once your arm is fully healed in 3-6 months revision procedures to improve its appearance MAY be possible.  Best wishes.

Thornwell H. Parker, III, MD · Answer

In addition to the very large size of your lipoma, the location over the shoulder joint will certainly add to the pain and discomfort you have after surgery.  Since you are a dental assistant, you day is likely pretty active, and shoulder motion will continue to agitate the wound.  However, if you can immobilize your shoulder a little bit, it should help reduce pain and protect while healing, especially during the first couple of weeks.  You could try an arm sling, a figure-of-eight brace, or even wrapping your upper arm against your chest/back (around and under the opposite armpit).  Hopefully within a couple of weeks you will have significantly less discomfort.  However, you will often have some "sensations" as some of the small nerves in the skin regenerate and heal...tiny nerves in the skin are alway cut when the skin is cut.  You may experience occasional tingling, pin pricking, itching, aching, burning, etc...often normal sensations as a wound/scar heals.  If there is further concern, don't hesitate to go see your surgeon!  Hope this helps!

One week after lipoma surgery. I know I’ll have pain but am I going to feel more with my Fibromyalgia? (photos)

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One week after lipoma surgery. I know I’ll have pain but am I going to feel more with my Fibromyalgia? (photos)

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Everything you need to know about Lipoma Removal

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