Itchy red bumps along incision site 4 weeks after tummy tuck. Is this part of the healing process?

Question

I'm four weeks post op from a full tummy tuck. Over the past few days I've developed an insanely itchy rash (small red bumps) along the outside edge of portions of my incision line. I have not been using any lotions or ointments at all. Is this part of the healing process? What could be going on? I have been using gauze and tape over some areas where some sutures have spit, but the rash isn't only around those areas. It seems odd. Thanks for your answers!

Emmanuel Mallol Cotes, MD · Answer

Thanks for sharing your concerns with us.Those itchy red bumps can be caused by an allergic reaction to the girdle. You should tell your surgeon and follow his recommendations. Also, i suggest you to send some photos to give you more recommendations and advices.Best regards, Dr. Emmanuel Mallol Cotes.-

Matthew C. Camp, MD · Answer

Good Question. I have seen this before. It is likely a contact dermatitis related to the materials used in surgery, or the gauze and tape you have used. Generally the treatment is with topical steroids. A great choice is protopic - it doesn't thin the skin, and quickly will cool off the rash. The only adverse reaction I have seen is a stinging sensation in the first week, after which this symptom goes away. See you surgeon, or a dermatologist for evaluation and treatment. Best Matthew C Camp M.D.

Leo Lapuerta, MD · Answer

It could be a number of things. I think the best thing to do would be to consult with your plastic surgeon for an evaluation.

Jeff Angobaldo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  You may be experiencing a allergic reaction, fungal rash, or even a minor skin infection.  Recommend you see your Plastic Surgeon for an examaintiona  and recommendations. Best Wishes.

John Michael Thomassen, MD · Answer

I have seen this type of reaction from steri strips placed along the incision.  The adhesives used can cause an allergic reaction that can persist.  The use of mild steroid creams like hydrocortizone can help.

Oliver Pope Simmons, MD, FACS · Answer

Certainly you are still healing. You however are in the maturation phase of healing and there should be little redness of the healing is proceeding correctly.  Either you are having a reaction to the tape, the garment or possibly if you were on an antibiotic for more than a few days, you may have a fungal/yeast infection in the skin area.   It would be best to contact your plastic surgeon and have a check up

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your excellent question.  There are a number of reasons that irritation may develop around the incision line, including adhesive from any tape or bandages affixed to the skin, dry skin, or a small infection of the hair follicles termed a folliculitis.  Though a photograph would be useful to help judge the cause, I would speak to your doctor about your symptoms, they can offer the best treatment advice.  Oftentimes this is as simple as not using tape on your skin, or applying a lotion or steroid cream to calm the itchiness.  Hope this helps.

Sugene Kim, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi, there.  Thanks for your question.  Itchy red bumps may be reaction to "glue" or tape.  Although seeing your photos may help, you should see your plastic surgeon to be evaluated in-person.  After examining you, he/she will be able to give you a treatment plan.  Good luck.

Itchy red bumps along incision site 4 weeks after tummy tuck. Is this part of the healing process?

Answers (8)

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