Is it normal to experience arm tingling/ numbness one week after breast augmentation?

Question

I am seven days post breast augmentation. Silicone implants under the muscle. My left arm is having tingling/ numbing sensations. Sometimes I feel it in my right arm too but more severe in my left. I am worrried and it's a holiday weekend so I won't be able to reach anyone for 4 days. I don't have any bruising or redness. TIA

Scott W. Harris, MD, FACS · Answer

Yes, I have seen this happen before, but it usually resolves in time. Please don't worry about it... it's related to the fact that the nerves are stretched on the upper outside of the breast to make room for the implants. Good luck!

Eric P. Bachelor, MD · Answer

What you are experiencing is very common and should resolve over the next 2 months. This tingling represents nerve regeneration and is a normal part of healing. If it is truly "driving you crazy", Gabapentin is a medication that may help these symptoms.

Steven Sigalove, MD FACS · Answer

Hello there and thank you for this great question. Most likely you are experiencing post operative swelling which is affecting the nerves in the armpit and therefore your arm. I would recommend resting, icing, and taking anti-inflammatories and more importunely, please go see your plastic surgeon ASAP so that any other acute abnormalities can be ruled out. These symptoms will likely resolve within the next week or so and it is likely that none of this will be permanent. Additionally, sometimes your positioning on the operating table can stretch out the nerves in the armpits which can also cause these symptoms. These are likely temporary and should improve within the next week or so.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Tingling in the arms is not uncommon after breast augmentation as the nerves may have been stretched either during the procedure or due to the swelling.  I would recommend reaching out to your surgeon just for peace of mind.  These symptoms typically resolve on their own over a few weeks.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Hi Ashley332,
  
I understand your concern. It is not uncommon to experience arm and hand numbness and tingling sensation following breast augmentation surgery. These sensations are often associated with nerve injury along the armpits and positioning of the arm during the procedure. This should resolve in a week or two. However, if these sensations persists or worsens, you should visit your plastic surgeon for an in-person examination. Only after a thorough examination you will get more information and recommendations.
  
Daniel Barrett, MD, MHA, MS
  
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
  
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
  
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Is it normal to experience arm tingling/ numbness one week after breast augmentation?

Answers (8)