I recently exchange a ticket from LHR ORD PHL to LHR IAD PHL (due to a schedule change, I had another issue about connection time on this ticket and here is the thread about that :http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=485245)

I am on a B fare and had a confirmed upgrade to C for my LHR ORD leg. When I call them to fix my ticket, I made sure that there is confirmable upgrade seats for the LHR IAD flight. The res agent confirmed me the upgrade and I can see that in "My Initineraries" page (row 15!!). But, when I check my mileage balance this morning, I found out that the res agent only refunded my miles but did not take them out again. So, I called back and asked what is going on. I was then informed that I will have to call back to get my miles pulled once the ticket exchanged is completed.

So, is this abnormal? I am more than happy to call back and have them to pull my miles. but, I am just curious why the miles have not been pulled yet. And, of course, there is always the question of: Is my upgrade safe?

THANKS!