Should I be Considered about this Redness from Silicone Strips after Breast Augmentation? (photo)

Question

My surgeon instructed me to use silicone strips to reduce scarring from breast augmentation. I am 6 weeks, 1 day post up. I just started the strips yesterday and was cleared to do so. After about 24 hours of strip wear, my left incision has become itchy and red, so needless to say I am concerned. Could I be having an allergic reaction. (Photos for reference).

Nirmal Nathan, MD · Answer

Dear a.elise,It looks based on the photos that you might be having an allergic reaction to the silicone strips. I would follow-up with your surgeon and discontinue using the strips until you see him/her.Best regards,Nirmal R. Nathan, M.D.Certified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic Surgeons

Boris M. Ackerman, MD · Answer

The scars after breast augmentation fade quite nicely with time, and eventually should be minimal. In our practice most breast augmentation scars do not require any special treatments. We follow our patients' progress on regular basis, and if there any signs that the scar is not fading out at the proper rate we will suggest scar treatment.  The treatment will depend on the patient's individual healing.  When prescribing silicone strips, proper use is quite important to avoid skin irritation. See your plastic surgeon for detailed instructions.  Meanwhile, stop using the strips to allow your skin to recover from the irritation.

Badar Jan, MD · Answer

An important question. Silicone strips are the best treatment for the inframammary fold scars. Unfortunately some people can develop a reaction to the adhesive in the strips or the silicone strip itself. I recommend you avoid the strips until the irritation resolves. At that point you can consider another scar treatment like vitamin e or mederma. 
Best wishes,
Dr. Jan

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question and I am sorry to hear of your irritation.  Rarely does silicone cause issues on a patient’s skin but it appears it has on you.  I would recommend gently washing the area with a mild detergent and then appply a good moisturizer.  The irritation should resolve in a couple of days.  Best wishes

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear a.elise,
based on your photos, it looks like your scars are red and it can be caused by strips you started using. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment. Only after thorough examination you can get proper recommendations and advice.
Daniel Barrett, MD

Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Paul Banwell, BSc, FRCS(Plast) · Answer

Thank you for your kind questionUnfortunately it looks like you may have some sensitivity to these strips so it may be worthwhile just leaving them off and allow your skin to settle.Occasionally we see this but it is nothing to worry about. Simple massage with moisturiser alone will no doubt help and I am sure you surgeon will advise accordinglyGood luck with your recovery

Karen Singer, MD · Answer

Thank you for your pictures. It appears that you have had a reaction to the strips. Best to remove them and discuss options for scar healing with your surgeon. Best wishes.
Karen Singer, M.D.
 Harvard Graduate and Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

St. Petersburg, FL

Tarek V. Copty, MD, FACS · Answer

Dear A.elise, 
 Some patients have a sensitivity to the silicone strips and it is best to discontinue usage. Inform your surgeon during your next postoperative appointment. You should heal fine. 
Best regards, 
Tarek V. Copty, MD FACS
American Board of Surgery 
American Board of Cosmetic Surgery 
Jordanian Board of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery 
Fellow, American College of Surgeons
Fellow, American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery 
Fellow, International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons

Jeffrey Antimarino, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your inquiry.    After viewing your photos, it appears you have developed some localized irritation.   It may be due to sensitivity to the silicone but most likely due to the silicone trapping heat and moisture against your skin.  Simply removing the silicone sheets should help.   Ask your surgeon for his/her advice.    Personally, I have not had any improvement when patients use the silicone strips so I stopped recommending their use many years ago.I hope this helps.

Gaurav Bharti, MD, FACS · Answer

Always best to consult with your surgeon.  Looks like the skin is irritated and likely macerated which means kept too moist.  Sometimes patients can take a break and keep the strips on majority of the day and take breaks so the skin has time to breathe and dry.     But discuss first with your surgeon.

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