When does the numbness go away?

By Debie Jeffrey Tuesday, June 12, 2007

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I had a masectotomy with breast reconstruction using a latissimus flap (from my back). When will the numbness in my armpit and under my upper arm go away? Does anyone have any experience with this?

C'est la vie (That's Life)

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PJ Hamel, Health Guide

6/14/07 9:24pm

Hi Debie - I had a tram flap 5+ years ago, and I'm still numb over most of my "new" breast, under my arm, back behind my arm, and tingly all over. Nerve damage varies from woman to woman, as does regaining sensation; it may come back gradually, it may never come back. One thing I can say - it doesn't bother me, I'm totally used to it. Time heals, and not always in the way we expect it to. Good luck! - PJH

Esther Kowalski

6/22/07 10:41am

I had breast reconstruction (Expander then inplant) at the end of Nov. 2006. My mastectomy was 5/1/06. I definitely have numbness under arm and towards the back area, however I notice it has improved a little. I really doubt, though, that it will completely go away. I go to a massage therapist at least once a month and that may be helping some. It certainly helps the lymph flow and all the aches and pains, etc.

As time goes on, I find that I don't seem to think about it as much.

Cindy Bell

6/22/07 1:32pm

Hi Debie,

I had mastectomy, sentinel node, and tissue expander May 3, 2006. On October 3, 2006, I had free-flap tram reconstruction. The skin in my armpit and underside of the upper arm is still mostly numb, but i can feel a fingernail running across it. Definately better than at first. Because I had radiation treatment, my plastic surgeon tried to remove as much skin as he could. The only feeling there is in the scar since the entire transplanted flap was cut "free" and after a 13 hour procedure connecting blood vessels, I don't think he was too worried about the nerves. Still much better than it was and I am thankful!!

When does the numbness go away?

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