Ask an Expert is a free question-and-answer service about breast cancer and breast health that is available on weekends. If you'd like to ask a question or comment, please visit us again on Saturday or Sunday. In the meantime, please search the existing topics using the search tool at the top of the page. It's quite possible that one of our many existing topics already addresses your question.
If you would like a consultation with a breast specialist at the Johns Hopkins Avon Foundation Breast Center, call 443-778-2778. It is possible to get an appointment for a second opinion within a few days of contacting us.
We hope you find the information helpful!
| Forum | Questions | Ask a Question | |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
Mastectomy with Tissue Expander Questions about Mastectomy with Tissue Expander. |
962 |  |
| Asked | Publicly Submitted Question | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| 10/24/2011 | I had bilateral mastectomy with tissue expanders one month ago. One of my arms has a numb patch about two inches long on the underside of it about halfway between my armpit and elbow. The skin is also darker, dry and scaly compared to the area around it. I had sentinal node bx on this side also. Does this sound like nerve damage and if so, should it eventually get better? Thank you | ||
| Replied | JHU's Breast Center Reply | ||
| 10/24/2011 | Thank you for turning to the Johns Hopkins Breast Center with your question. Some decrease in skin sensation can result from surgery, particularly if a sentinel node or axillary node biopsy was performed on that side. It is not nerve damage, and sensation should gradually return over time. However, at your next post op visit, be sure and discuss with your breast surgeon and your plastic surgeon so they are aware. Hope this helps and best wishes! | ||
Please note: This service is not intended to provide primary medical advice concerning specific medical care or treatment. Ask an Expert is a free service operated by health care professionals at the Johns Hopkins Avon Foundation Breast Center. Due to the volume of questions and their complexity, there are times when medical oncologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists or oncology nurses are consulted for their input. These individuals volunteer their time for this service and will respond as soon as they are able. Please do not post or send the same question to us in multiple locations or categories.