What are some alternatives to steri-strips for tummy tuck?

I have seen true reactions to Steri-strips and more frequently to skin adhesives (such as Mastisol) that we apply over incisions to make the strips more secure. However, most of the blisters or reactions are not true allergic phenomena, but a mechanical or physical injury to the skin when the strips are applied under tension. In this situation, the strips have the ability to actually lift the top layer of the skin (epidermis) off the deeper layer (dermis), resulting in irritation and blisters. Sometimes the strips are applied (without intentional tension) with the hips in flexion at the end of surgery, then the when he patient is more erect, excessive tension develops. For patients who are truly allergic to Steri-strips or Mastisol, there are many good alternatives, such as Dermabond or non-adherent dressings such as Xeroform and dry gauze. Discuss your concerns with your surgeon and best wishes with your surgery.

If you had an excellent subcutiular closure, you can have many other alternatives to cover the incision. My favorite is xeroform which provide an excellent antibacterial environment for the skin to heal. If you are allergic to steri-strip, you are probably allergic to many adhesives and tapes. I would also consider using just dry cotton gauze over these incisions.

Thank you for your question.  Some patients have been known to have a reaction to the steri-strips, and in those instances there are a few options that can be utilized.  Depending on your surgeon's preference, some may opt to use dermabond, which is an adhesive.  Other surgeons may choose to not utilize any tape, but reinforce the incision with gauze and then bandages.  The important thing is to let your surgeon know about your allergic reaction prior to surgery so that a reaction can be prevented and bandaging modifications can be made.Best regards,Dr. Lane F. Smith, MDPlastic SurgeonLas Vegas, NV

Yes, there are many other options, including the use of adhesives like dermabond (which provide a watertight seal) or even just plain gauze with minimal paper tape. I have found patients often have a reaction to the mastisol or benzoin that is applied to the skin to help the steri strips stay on longer so your surgeon may simply elect to not use those. Either case, just let your surgeon know about your previous reaction and he or she will be able to modify your dressings. Good luck!

There are definitely alternatives to steristrips. Dermabond and regular gauze and bandages can be used instead. Talk to your surgeon to find out what they recommend for you.

What you don't know is what actually caused the reaction--the adhesive on the strips, or perhaps some added adhesive your surgeon may have used.Nonetheless, you probably do not want to repeat the experiment. Your surgeon has a wide choice of alternative dressings.  I would try to avoid tapes of all kinds and use garment to hold some bulky dressings in place. Do let your surgeon know about the reaction you had!!  All the best 

If you know you are sensitive to tape or adhesives be sure to let your surgeon know, as we occasionally see a rash or dermatitis in both breast reduction surgery and with tummy tuck. The alternative we use is a dressing without the tapes or adhesives, and follow with silicone sheeting, usually by three to four weeks after the procedure.

Make sure your surgeon knows how significant your reaction to steri strips was. Some people react to the adhesive used (benzoin) and not to the steri strips themselves. In our practice, we would not use anything on you at the end of surgery , but would consider using paper tape later. (One could test paper tape on your skin ahead of surgery).  Other alternatives like silicone tape, or Embrace therapy can also be considered after discussion with your surgeon.  Best wishes.Below is general information on tumy tucks. 

It may be that you reacted to the skin adhesive called mastisol that some surgeons use before applying steristrips.  I have stopped using mastisol due to skin reactions and use only steristrips alone.  If you reacted to the steristrips without mastisol.  A tissue glue such as derma bond could be used instead of steristrips. Make sure you consult with a board certified plastic surgeon.  Best of luck.   

I would recommend that you talk to your PS ahead of time.  It could be an isolated instance, but you want your surgeon to have a plan PRIOR to surgery.  He/she may elect to do a trial on your skin before surgery.  Don't worry about it too much.  Steri-strips are great but not the only option.