When will my upper arm feel normal after mastectomy with axillary clearance?

Thanks @Abbydog for bringing this up and others for your feedback. I had double mastectomy and ancillary clearance last Thursday and there is certainty a mixture of numbness, swelling and possibly some nerve pain in my upper arm. I gather it will take time to settle. I expect there is fluid retention too and I notice weird sensations / small spasms in around the ancillary area and upper back. 

Hi @Abbydog
Nerve endings do get mashed about a bit in an axillary clearance so some short term swelling and numbness is pretty common. Like @Blossom1961, I had difficulty with roll on deodorant as my armpit clearly belonged to someone else. It’s improved with time, but a bit of feeling loss seems permanent - doesn’t affect anything although if I used hot wax I’d have to be careful, hot or cold does not register very well. But cording or any short term fluid retention may be helped by a lymphoedema therapist. Best wishes.

Hi @Abbydog My mx and anx clear was Nov 2018. My upper arm still feels swollen and numb. It is normal size. I have gotten used to the feeling. Putting on deodorant is always an interesting exercise though. I usually overdo it as I can’t feel it going on and end up with it dripping wet. I now apply it in front of a mirror. There is a lot of things they don’t tell you prior to your treatments. Unfortunately we have to learn as we go. Just as well we have this forum, it has been a mind saver for me.

Hi Abbydog,
welcome to this forum , I’m sure others will jump on with some ideas.
I would contact your breast care nurse and have a chat, she may be able to recommend someone.
I have regular massages by a lymphatic masseuse which helps with my arm swelling and tightness, Daily stretches and exercises as well as dry brushing before showering, swimming is really good as well.
There are some physiotherapists that specialise in cording and Lymphoedema .
Your breast care nurse can guide you and can give you recommendations of specialists in your area.
Good luck. Xx