1 month post-op: Right forearm SEVERE pain, numbness, worse on extension, surgeon acts puzzled, says is phlebitis?

Question

Severe pain and swelling in right forearm, called superficial phlebitis by surgeon, NOT resolving since May 11. 2017. Milder case on left arm.I am terrified this will be permanent in my right arm and I will have this pain and disfigurement of a swollen forearm when goal was arm reduction. Plus my forearms were always slender! My upper arm incision on right feels very tight, forearm always hurts, worse with any activity. Surgeon recommend no compression, still has not. I am afraid of permanence !

Bryan C. McIntosh, MD · Answer

This is a difficult issue to address over the internet. There are certainly nerves in the arm that can get trapped in scar tissue as your arms heal after an arm lift. This can be painful as you move your arm, since the nerve is stretched and irritated with the movement. Aggressive massage at the site of nerve pain is what I would recommend, and you could even consider ultrasound therapy by a physical or occupational therapist. With time, the scar tissue will soften, and your symptoms can improve or even resolve. Swelling in the arm, forearm and hand can be present for several weeks after an arm lift, and it may take three months to resolve. If the swelling is causing pain, a compression garment can help until your body heals and the swelling goes away.

1 month post-op: Right forearm SEVERE pain, numbness, worse on extension, surgeon acts puzzled, says is phlebitis?

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1 month post-op: Right forearm SEVERE pain, numbness, worse on extension, surgeon acts puzzled, says is phlebitis?

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