Implant arm: axillary compression from breast prostheses.

Abnormal pressure on the axillary contents can occur following subpectoral breast reconstruction when the pocket is surgically or traumatically extended superolaterally. Aside from the cosmetic deformity, this migration of the prosthesis may give the syndrome of "implant arm," manifested by edema and a dull pain extending distally along the medial arm. Functional and cosmetic improvement can best be achieved by the introduction of a row of sutures placed to close the superolateral extension of the pocket. Two case reports depicting traumatic dissection of the implant into the axilla are presented to illustrate the syndrome and its surgical correction.