Allergic reaction/rash after tummy tuck now containing blisters at 11 days post-op. (Photos)

Dear Moore,   Thanks for posting your pictures and sorry for your problem. The rash that you developed is not uncommon with prolong (over a week) use of antibiotic ointment like Neosporin etc. The good news is that I do not see any signs of infection.   Obviously, The ointment should have been stopped (as was done),  so, the trigger for the reaction is gone. The rash will disappear on it's own, however, you may ask your surgeon to prescribe for you Medrol dose pack , which will hasten the disappearance of the rash.             Best of luck,                             Dr Widder

Rashes are very common after surgery.  The two causes are either contact dermatitis or fungal infections.  Contact dermatitis is an allergic reaction to a material.  We see this with the adhesives on the dressings.  This is treated with a strong steroid ointment. Fungal infections occur because the prep we use in the OR kills the steph epidermidis that lives on the skin.  In addition the warmth and moisture from the binder leads to a perfect breeding ground for the ubiquitous fungus.  Finally, the use of antibacterial soap leads to the death of the good bacteria.  It's hard to know what the rash is caused by.  Typically we start with a steroid cream.  If the rash gets worse than it's a fungal infection.  Sounds like your case.

Sorry to hear about your problems.  It appears that you may have more than one issue going on.  Looking at the rectangular patches, my best guess is that you either had a reaction to the Steri-Strips or there was a mechanical pulling on the strips as your abdomen became more swollen post-op.  This can commonly cause blisters at the location of the Steri-Strips.  You may have had an allergic reaction as well, but my other concern is that you may have a yeast infection (which is very common in post-op patients that have been or currently taking antibiotics).  The little red dots are classic for yeast.  If these areas are itchy, then it lends more to the diagnosis of yeast.  If you have a yeast infection, the steroids will make it worse.  Be sure to have your PS evaluate you in person ASAP.