What can I do about numb forearm after arm lift?

Hello, Thank you for your questions regarding post-op arm numbness and tingling in your forearms after an arm lift, arm reduction, or brachioplasty.  It is very important that you inform your plastic surgeon of these hand and forearm symptoms. Since he or she is your treating physician, they should be in charge of your care. With that said, temporary numbness and tingling of the forearm is very common after an arm lift. Compression of a nerve can cause numbness and tingling. Periodic numbness and then return of sensation with tingling is probably due to transient nerve compression. Your nerve compression after an arm lift can be from the tumescent solution, natural healing, or sometimes the arm bandages.  In your case, the numbness in your forearm is probably due to compression of the medial antebrachial cutaneous nerve. The tingling in your wrist is probably due to compression of the median nerve in the carpal tunnel or the ulnar nerve in Guyon’s canal. Since you describe sensation, in the form of tingling, I am confident that all sensation and function should soon return. If you described complete numbness and no tingling, then we would need to be concerned with nerve transection (which does not appear to be the case here). To minimize hand, wrist, and forearm numbness,  I would suggest elevation of your arms above your heart as well as arm compression garments. This arm position will help to minimize the swelling around the nerves. I hope that I have answered your questions regarding post-operative hand, wrist, and forearm numbness after an arm lift or brachioplasty. If you have any more questions regarding an arm lift, arm reduction, brachioplasty, arm liposuction, or plastic surgery in general, please contact my office.  Sincerely, Dr. Katzen(Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and member of the American Society Plastic Surgeons, International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery, and Fellow of American College of Surgeons and American Board for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, Awardee: RealSelf 100.)

Experiencing numbness in the forearm after an arm lift (brachioplasty) is not uncommon, and it is often a result of nerve irritation or temporary damage during the surgical procedure. It's important to note that sensations of numbness, tingling, or altered sensitivity are often part of the normal healing process. However, if you have concerns about persistent or worsening numbness, it's crucial to communicate with your surgeon. Here are some general recommendations:1. Follow Your Surgeon's Instructions:• Adhere to the post-operative care instructions provided by your surgeon. This may include recommendations for wound care, activity restrictions, and the use of compression garments.2. Be Patient:• Numbness is often temporary and may gradually improve over time as nerves heal. Complete resolution of numbness can take weeks to months.3. Gentle Massage:• With your surgeon's approval, gentle massage of the forearm and surrounding areas may help stimulate blood flow and promote nerve healing. Ensure that you follow your surgeon's guidelines to avoid any undue pressure on the surgical site.4. Avoid Pressure on the Nerves:• Avoid placing unnecessary pressure on the numb areas, and be mindful of your arm positioning to prevent further irritation.5. Communicate with Your Surgeon:• If you have concerns about persistent numbness or if it worsens, contact your surgeon promptly. They can provide guidance on whether the symptoms are within the normal range of the healing process or if further evaluation is needed.It's important to note that while some degree of numbness is common after surgery, any significant or prolonged changes in sensation should be discussed with your surgeon. They can assess your specific situation, provide guidance on the expected timeline for recovery, and address any potential issues that may be contributing to the numbness.

Swelling and numbness after an armlift can last up to six months or even a year.  Induration and hardness are components of the normal healing process.  If there is anything suggestive of a fluid collection, hematoma, infection, or blood clot, follow up with your PS.