Is the Rash Around my Incision an Allergic Reaction? (photo)

The "skin glue" came off of my incision 2 days ago ( i am 14 days post op) and I have developed a rash on the incision where the glue was and even extending out. There is no drainage or heat, just really itchy. It acts like an allergic reaction. I started treating it with a hydrocortisone cream today. How often is it ok to apply it?

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13 Doctor Answers | Asked by Cinnamon Girl

Doctor Answers (13)
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Rash Around my Incision

This does look like an allergy to the adhesive. But that is not the only possibility, so be certain that your own surgeon is in the loop on this. Most over the counter hydrocortisone preparations suggest twice daily applications. Although the dosing is low, steroids can interfere with wound healing. Thank you for your question, best wishes.j

Skin Rash After Breast Augmentation #breastimplants

I would see your surgeon for sure to make sure it is not anything bigger than you think. But if it truly is a reaction and only itches, cortisone cream may be fine, but again, it is always a good idea to speak to your surgeon ASAP especially with an implant beneath that redness.

Itching rash on incision.

You have a topical dermatitis. It is a local allergic reaction due to either the glue or the tape over the incision. It will resolve without treatment but will get better quicker with a topical steroid cream. Consult your physician. Talmage Raine MD FACS drraine.com

Talmage J. Raine, MD

5 reviews

Chicago Plastic Surgeon

Skin rash

Based solely on your story and photo, it is likely that you developed a rash to the tape or glue at the incision site. I suggest you follow with your doctor in terms of treatment. Many would suggest low dose topical steroid cream.

Steven Wallach, MD

12 reviews

Manhattan Plastic Surgeon

Skin Rash Following Breast Augmentation

Sorry to hear about the skin rash you are experiencing following your breast augmentation. The picture you provided is consistent with an allergic reaction due to topical products which could include; antibiotic ointment or "skin glue". Eliminating the source of the rash is an important first step and this is typically followed with topical hydrocortisone creams. You should have your physician evaluate the problem to make sure you are receiving the proper treatment. This... more

Rash at incision site

It does appear your had a reaction to the adhesive. Using hydrocortisone cream is what I recommend in my patients, but you should make sure it is okay with your surgeon first.

This is typical for allergic reaction to adhesive.

This looks like an allergic or hypersensitivity response to the skin adhesive your surgeon used. Though the vast majority of patients do not have this response to surgical adhesives, you appear to be in a tiny minority who do. And although this is (almost certainly) self-limited and not of concern, it is natural to consider alternative diagnoses of greater concern, just in case we might be wrong. Since your skin glue "just came off" on post-op day 12, it is likely that your incision is... more

Is the Rash Around my Incision an Allergic Reaction?

Please see your surgeon for IN PERSON care for this issue! I recommend PO antibiotics and local care with antibiotic cream and cleaning.

Allergic Reaction after Breast Augmentation

You can apply the hydrocortisone cream to the area twice a day. Do not use it longer than one week, as this tends to thin the skin. In addition, see your plastic surgeon.

Possible contact dermatitis around an incision

It does look like you have developed some degree of contact dermatitis. You can try some over the counter hydrocortosone 1% cream, if it does not rapidly improve then you should be seen by your plastic surgeon. It is also possible that this is fungal in origin and steroid will not totally treat this condition.

Allergy to Skin Glue after Breast Surgery?

Thank you for the question and picture. The picture does demonstrate a reaction consistent with an allergic reaction. Of course, your plastic surgeon will be in the best position to advise you precisely. Best wishes.

Rash around the scar

I think it is an allerfic reaction. Cortisone cream for a few days will correct it. If it does not imporve in 3-4 days ask your doctor.

After breast augmentation is due to an allergy to an adhesive

The picture demonstrates an allergic reaction to either the adhesive tape or an adhesive applied to the skin to help secure the incision. Treatment includes removal of the offending agent and application of a steroid cream