Burning armpits after arm lift. What can I do? (Photo)

Question

I had my arm lift 7 days ago. No pain only discomfort. My question is the armpits. They hurt and burn and I never know what to do with myself. Any suggestions

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

At 7 days post op it is normal to have pain and discomfort after an arm lift, continue to wear you garment or ace bandages and follow up with your PS to discuss your concerns.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

The pain that you describe in the armpits is normal after an arm lift or brachioplasty. From the two pictures you attached, I see nothing wrong with the arm scar placement or incision pattern. In addition, your arm lift does not look too tight. To relieve the pain in the armpit, I would suggest you continue to wear a compression garment or an Ace bandage. In addition, I would suggest arm elevation with your elbows above your heart to minimize the swelling. Swelling can compress the nerves in the armpit and lead to armpit pain. In addition, when your arms are down by your side, this creates pressure in the armpit and can further compress the nerves. Another source of armpit pain after a brachioplasty is that the Ace bandages or arm garments are too tight in the armpit. Please check to be sure that the garments are not pressing too tightly in the armpit. In the armpit, there is a complex of nerves that innervate the hand. Swelling and compression around these nerves can elicit a significant amount of localized burning and pain. Fortunately, after one or two weeks, most of the swelling of the armpit after an arm lift is gone. As always, for any concerns, you should consult with your plastic surgeon. He or she will have their individualized ways of treating their arm lift patients. If you are seeking an arm lift or an arm lift revision, please find an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon who has performed hundreds of arm lifts in their career. Travel out-of-state if you must. Sincerely, Dr. Katzen

Ashley Thorburn, MD · Answer

Burning sensations or discomfort can be common during the healing process. It’s crucial to follow your surgeon’s post-operative care instructions, which may include:
1. Pain medication: Take prescribed pain relievers as directed by your surgeon.2. Rest and elevation: Resting and elevating your arms can help reduce swelling and discomfort.3. Ice packs: Applying ice packs to the affected area for short periods may help alleviate burning sensations and reduce swelling.4. Compression garments: Wearing compression garments as recommended can provide support and reduce swelling.5. Avoid strenuous activities: Avoid activities that strain your arms until your surgeon gives the green light.6. Follow-up appointments: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your surgeon for proper monitoring and guidance.
If you experience severe or prolonged burning, it’s essential to contact your surgeon promptly to rule out any complications or infections.

Tania Medina de Garcia, MD · Answer

Hello Dear!!It is very normal after a week post to have discomfort in your armpits.
Remember that you are still early on healing process, it is too soon to determine how your results are going to be, but per now, they look normal. The healing process depends on each patient, most of the time is between 6 months and one year to see the final results. 
Good luck :)

Burning armpits after arm lift. What can I do? (Photo)

Answers (4)

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