What can I do for terrible red bumps and itching after explant with en bloc/lift/fat transfer surgery 1 week ago? (photo)

It's really difficult to say without taking a look in person, but it's possible that this is some kind of allergic reaction to tape. In which case, what your Doctor has recommended would be suitable.

Dear pcoleary,I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment it would be difficult to determine what is wrong. 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

Thank you for sharing your question and photograph. It does appear to be an allergic reaction of some kind and I would start by gently washing your skin with soap and water, then apply a thick emollient/cream to keep the area of irritation moisturized.  Topical steroid creams that can be found OTC can also be used, while oral Benadryl can help with the itching.  Keep in close contact with your PCP and plastic surgeon as they should nurse you through this. 

I would continue to follow up with your primary care doctor if your surgeon is not available.  You may need more time for the prednisone to give you relief.  He/She may able to give you another suggestion to help with your symptoms in the meantime.

Hi dear, thank you for your question.It is hard to give you a proper assessment without first seeing you in person however, it seems as if there was some allergic reaction to something. I recommend following up with your primary care to see if there is come other options for your case. At the moment is hard to tell what is exactly going on without knowing what happened in between.Kind regards,Dr. Jimenez Toribio Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon.