Ongoing Numbness Following Local Anesthesia
I am a 40-year-old woman, standing at 5 feet 2 inches and weighing 120 pounds, with no known medical issues. Three days ago, I underwent a procedure to remove a mole from my hairline at an outpatient clinic, performed by a plastic surgeon. The operation involved local anesthesia, and I now have nine neatly arranged stitches on my scalp. However, I am worried because the top of my head remains numb 72 hours post-procedure, and it is approximately five inches away from where the incision was made. While I am aware that numbness can sometimes persist longer than expected, my surgeon did not provide any information on this matter. Should I be worried about this ongoing numbness?
Answers (1)
7/13/2025, 5:40:31 PM
OpenHealth AI
Ongoing numbness following local anesthesia can be concerning, especially when it persists longer than anticipated. However, it is not uncommon for some patients to experience numbness in the areas surrounding the incision site due to the effects of local anesthetics or nerve irritation during the procedure.
Explanation:
Local anesthesia works by blocking nerve signals in a specific area, and it can take time for normal sensation to return. Generally, the numbness should gradually decrease within a few days to a week. Since your procedure involved the scalp, nerve pathways can sometimes be affected, leading to sensation changes in nearby areas. While it’s good to be cautious, complete numbness in an area not directly involved with the procedure for three days isn't typically an immediate cause for alarm.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in the numbness. Note if it’s improving, worsening, or if you develop additional symptoms like swelling, severe pain, or discoloration.
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Gentle Care: Avoid manipulating or massaging the area around the incision, as this could irritate nerves further.
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Pain Management: If you experience discomfort, over-the-counter pain medication like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage any discomfort.
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Rest and Hydration: Ensure you are getting plenty of rest and staying hydrated to aid your body’s recovery.
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Contact Your Surgeon: If the numbness does not start to improve within a week, or if you notice any new symptoms (such as increased swelling or pain), reach out to your surgeon for further evaluation. They can provide clarity and determine if further examination is necessary.
It's understandable to feel anxious about changes in your body, but many patients experience variations in sensation post-procedure that resolve on their own. If you have any specific concerns or feel that something isn’t right, don't hesitate to follow up for peace of mind.
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