Burning Sensation from Mastectomy

[Redbean]

I had a double mastectomy on July 19th and although my incisions are healing nicely, I still have a very uncomfortable burning sensation all over my chest.  Also, where they removed 4 of my lymph nodes on the right side, I have burning(feels like a bad brush burn)down my arm to my elbow.  How long will it be before these symptoms subside?  Thank you for taking my question.

[Gretta]

I have a similar situation from my axillary node dissection.  I have been told that the burning is RSD, reflex sympathetic dystrophy, nerve damage, and is difficult to treat.  My arm has been hurting for two years. I hope you do not have what I have. Best of luck.

[CCF-RN,MSN-JS]

Dear Redbean, If the burning is on the surface of the skin this is not an uncommon sensation after surgery and will take some time to resolve. The healing process from surgery can vary from person to person.  Usually there should be improvement in the symptoms as time goes by and it may persist over a couple of months.
If this burning sensation is deeper in your chest there is a concern whether it might be cardiac (heart) related.  In this case make sure you