Rash or Fungal Infection? Lumpy & Swollen Incisions. BA post-op 8 days (Photo)

Question

Developed a rash on Night 4. Figured it was the steri strips. PS removed them on Day 6 & said to use hydrocortisone cream, wash 2x/day, keep dry. Didn't seem too concerned. In the 2 days since, the rash has gotten worse & spread. Also have clear discharge from my incisions (see photo - I change the pads 4x a day). Is it fungal? Or worse? My incisions seem VERY swollen & lumpy. Rash is ON incision & not just around it :( Antibiotics ended Day 7. Waiting to hear from PS but would like 2nd opinion!

Gerald Minniti, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello,It looks very much like a rash caused by a contact dermatitis from tape/glue.  Unfortunately, even with steroid creams or oral steroids, the course of the rash can take a week or more. Because your skin is less of a barrier to bacteria, I would probably place you back on antibiotics to protect your implants though. Best of luck!

Sheila S. Nazarian, MD · Answer

Based on your photo, your rash seems to be exactly what your surgeon suggested. It's possible that the 1% cortisone cream isn't enough. Call your surgeon's office and see if this needs to be upped. So sorry that you are experiencing this. Hang in there. It will pass.My best,
Dr. Sheila Nazarian
@drsheilanazarian on Instagram

Curtis Wong, MD · Answer

will always be attributed to the adhesive that was used to help secure the steri-strips until proven otherwise.  If so, its a self-limited problem and will go away with time and the avoidance of putting anything on the areas.  But you can experiment and use your steroid cream only on one side and if beneficial, then use it on both sides, and if not, then consider stopping it.

Raymond Jean, MD · Answer

The shape and location of the redness appears as if it is a reaction to the adhesive in the bandage over your incisions.  You could also develop an infection in the setting of the allergic reaction.  I agree with washing the area and cortisone cream.  Best of luck.  Raymond Jean MD Board Certified Plastic Surgeon.  Bryn Mawr, Philadelphia PA 19010

Paul J. Leahy, MD · Answer

I doubt you are dealing with a fungal infection at only day 4. You have fairly significant bruising and swelling. The irritation may be due to an adhesive or type of dressing used on the incision line. I'd get in to see your surgeon today to take a look. Best wishes.

Rash or Fungal Infection? Lumpy & Swollen Incisions. BA post-op 8 days (Photo)

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Answer: Rash around incision after breast augmentation

Answer: Rash around incision after breast augmentation

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Rash or Fungal Infection? Lumpy & Swollen Incisions. BA post-op 8 days (Photo)

Answers (8)

Answer: Rash around incision after breast augmentation

Answer: Rash around incision after breast augmentation

Answer: BA incision

Answer: BA incision

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Augmentation

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.