Pain in right arm after breast lift and augmentation. 2 days post-op.

Question

I had a breast lift with saline implants 2 days ago. Tonight my right arm feels like the circulation is being cut off. When I touch my right arm I hear gurgling noises as if my arm is full of liquid. Seems like I can even push the fluid down the inside of my arm. What should I do?

Dallas Buchanan, MD · Answer

Thank you for your questions. At two days after surgery, there is no way to evaluate what is going on without an in-person exam and evaluation. I would suggest you call your surgeon's office for instructions on what to do.Good luck!

James Knoetgen, III, MD · Answer

Experiencing pain in your right arm a couple of days after breast lift and augmentation surgery is not uncommon. This discomfort can be a result of the positioning during surgery, swelling, or even referred pain from the chest area. It's essential to follow your plastic surgeon's post-operative instructions, including taking any prescribed pain medications and avoiding activities that could strain your arms or chest.
However, if the pain is severe, worsening, or accompanied by other concerning symptoms such as excessive swelling, redness, or fever, it's crucial to contact your plastic surgeon immediately. They can evaluate your symptoms and provide guidance on whether further evaluation or treatment is necessary. In the meantime, you can try gentle movements and icing the affected area to help alleviate discomfort.

Gary L. Ross, MBChB, FRCS · Answer

It is very difficult to reassure you on line and without posting photos. This may simply be postop swelling but if you have concerns and if the right breast is larger you are best to see your PS in person.

Curtis Wong, MD · Answer

routinely has gurgling noises from your breast and this will subside on its own with time.  As long as your breast are not changing in size, I would not be too worried.  As for sensations in your arm and concerns about circulation, if your hand is pink and warm, sensation and function normal, and all you perceive is a sensation, there is really nothing to do but to let yourself heal as these symptoms should also resolve with time.  If you do have changes, then you really need to contact your surgeon.

Pain in right arm after breast lift and augmentation. 2 days post-op.

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Answer: Post op augmentation

Answer: Post op augmentation

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Everything you need to know about Breast Lift with Implants

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Pain in right arm after breast lift and augmentation. 2 days post-op.

Answers (4)

Answer: Post op augmentation

Answer: Post op augmentation

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Everything you need to know about Breast Lift with Implants

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