Objective：To investigate the protective effect of lipolysis and liposuction on intercostobrachial nerve (ICBN) during breast cancer open surgery. Methods：The incidences of ICBN injury between observation group including 29 patients with lipolysis and liposuction and control group consisting 31 patients without lipolysis and liposuction were compared. Results：In observation group, one patient′s ICBN was directly injuried during lipolysis, and one patient′s ICBN was injuried due to unsatisfactory lipolysis during open surgery. In control group, ICBN injury was found in 8 cases. Conclusions：It is feasible and effctive to perform lipolysis and liposuction first for protecting ICBN during open surgery of breast cancer, if the operator can proficienctly perform the procedure.