Thank you for your interesting question regarding whether you have an infection or an allergic reaction. Thank you for your history in your pictures. When examining your pictures, it doesn’t appear you have an infection. An infection would include symptoms like fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, and poor appetite. Clinical signs of infection can include skin redness, erythema, and creamy, foul-smelling drainage. The itchiness you describe is not a sign of infection. The redness you depicted in these pictures does not convincingly depict an infection. Most experienced plastic surgeons do not use tape. Unfortunately, tape usually causes blisters. A tape allergy is probably what’s happening in your case. You may have developed a tape allergy even though you had no reaction to tape during your previous tummy tuck. Therefore, most plastic surgeons would suggest you discontinue tape. In addition, it may be too early to have showers. Therefore, most experienced plastic surgeons would only recommend sponge bathing. Alternatively, you could be allergic to what you apply to the wound or dressing. Therefore, please get in touch with your plastic surgeon as soon as possible. In the meantime, most plastic surgeons suggest discontinuing the Steri-Strips and tape and converting to sponge bathing. Please make sure your garment is not digging into the incision. It is also important for you to continue your prophylactic antibiotic.
