Should I be concerned about a rash around my breast incision 16 days post-op?

Question

I'm 16 days post-op I went to get my stitches off my breath and now I have a rash .

Ross Blagg, MD · Answer

You should let your surgeon know. May times patients will have an allergic reaction to a soap or medications. He/she will be able to let you know after seeing the rash. All the best, Dr. BlaggAustin, TX

Ned Snyder, IV, MD · Answer

Thank you for submitting your questions!  Postoperative rashes can occur for many reasons.  Commonly they are caused by heat, friction, or irritation/allergy to skin glue, suture material, steri strips or other dressings.  Your plastic surgeon will be able to identify the cause and treat accordingly.  Very rarely, rashes can actually be the start of a skin infection so it is best to be seen sooner rather than later.  Good luck with your postoperative recovery and thanks again for your inquiry.

Bryan Curtis, MD · Answer

Yes, a rash around your breast incision 16 days post-op is a cause for concern and should be evaluated by your plastic surgeon as soon as possible. While some mild redness and irritation around the incision site can be normal during the healing process, a rash may indicate an infection or allergic reaction, both of which require medical attention.
Here are some reasons why you should be concerned about a rash around your breast incision:
1.	Infection: A rash could be a sign of an infection in the incision site, especially if it is accompanied by symptoms such as increased redness, warmth, swelling, pain, or drainage of pus. Infections can occur post-operatively and may require antibiotics or other treatments to resolve.
2.	Allergic reaction: If you had sutures, dressings, or other materials applied to the incision site during surgery, you may be experiencing an allergic reaction to these substances. Allergic reactions can cause redness, itching, and a rash around the incision site.
3.	Contact dermatitis: Contact dermatitis occurs when the skin comes into contact with an irritant or allergen, leading to inflammation and a rash. This could be caused by skincare products, laundry detergents, or other substances coming into contact with the incision site.
4.	Delayed healing: In some cases, a rash may indicate delayed healing or a reaction to the healing process itself. It's essential to have your plastic surgeon evaluate the rash to determine if any interventions are needed to support proper healing.
Regardless of the cause, it's crucial to seek medical attention promptly if you notice a rash around your breast incision. Your plastic surgeon can assess the rash, determine the underlying cause, and recommend appropriate treatment to address the issue and prevent any complications. Delaying treatment could lead to worsening symptoms or complications, so don't hesitate to contact your plastic surgeon for evaluation and guidance.

Jeanette Padgett, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question.  A  post-operative rash could be due to tape, surgical dressings, adhesives or medications.  It would be best to contact your plastic surgeon for an evaluation of the rash.  Best wishes.

Julie Khanna, MD, FRCSC · Answer

It is best to check in with your surgeon to be assessed and treated accordingly.  Skin reactions to tape or soap can happen but it is better to let them have a look.Best of Luck, Dr. K.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

I would contact your surgeon regarding the rash.  It may not be anything to worry about, but it's best to err on the side of caution.

Parit A. Patel, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question.  Having a skin reaction or rash can happen after any surgery and is due to a number of factors.  Some of the factors include a reaction to the surgical preparation used before surgery, surgical tape, adhesive, dressings, topical medication etc.  The major concern that you want to rule out is an infection.  I recommend following up closely with your board certified plastic surgeon to address your concerns.  Good luck and I hope this helps.

Robert E. Zaworski, MD (retired) · Answer

Contact your surgeon.  Many times, patients will become allergic to the tape, skin glue, ointments, and in rare case the sutures.  If your surgeon approves, cleaning the area with a mild soap and applying cortisone ointment should help.

Should I be concerned about a rash around my breast incision 16 days post-op?

Answers (8)

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