Skin sensitivity post- BMX

I had the same after BMX with reconstruction. It was worse in the evening. I would put a fan on and sit in front of it to calm the skin. The OT told me that standing in front of a mirror and rubbing lotion into the skin while looking at it helps the brain to make the connection. The issue seems that the brain has a hard time determining between "light touch" and pain while the nerves rejenrate I am 5 weeks post surgery and that feeling is nearly gone. Hang in there.

This is usually a short term phenomenon that has to do with the nerves being severed at the time of mastectomy, and it dissipates over time - for some almost immediately - others, it takes a bit. One thing I would caution you on is the use of ice if you have expanders in place. Because there is no underlying tissue your skin can actually freeze, and additionally, icing the skin over the expander can lead to a less robust blood supply to the skin and you can experience necrosis, not a good thing. I found skin to skin contact bothered me more, particularly on my inner arm, and found that soft fabric was helpful. Hope this goes away soon for you!

My PT recommended using different textures of fabric with different amounts of pressure on the areas. It sounds weird and counter intuitive, but it's something about retraining the nerves. It really helped me.

I found it helpful to put a textured cloth, like a towel, over the area. Instead of moving the towel, I moved my hand over it, applying different pressures.

thank you...have been using your suggestions and a three prong electric massager. It hurts but feels good at the same time. I feel like I am making some progress...this nerve pain has set me back just a bit but I am determined to not get discouraged.

found some serious relief for anyone feeling down with the sunburn. The three prong electric little massager has helped (Sharper image, Walgreens 9.99) It hurts to do it but massage the sensitive areas sl alternate a cold pack. It is not going to feel good at all for the first day or two but keep at it. The areas gets used to it and the clothes don't bother it anymore. The ice pack feels good but don't put it on The numb areas for too long. The more you do it the more normal the skin feels (obviously don't overdo)...i have done well with recovery but the skin thing has bugged me and I feel I am headed in the right direction again. Also a seamless tight cami is a must to keep your inner bicep from rubbing your side. That is by far the most sensitive part for me...massage, massage, massage. I vitamin E oil on one of the prongs on the third day.