Rash and itching due to binder, but can't go without it due to severe swelling. Suggestions?

Question

I am 6 weeks post op from a full tummy tuck. I have discovered that my binder makes me itch terribly, and it has caused a rash even though I wear a cotton shirt under it. I stopped wearing it two days ago, but now by the end of the day I'm severely swollen and very uncomfortable. Spanx do not provide enough pressure. Do you have any other suggestions? I need the compression but can't tolerate the binder due to the itching. Should I go without it and assume the swelling will soon correct itself?

William Andrade, MD · Answer

Hello, often a barrier (like the cotton shirt you have tried) will help a rash like this resolve. If not, perhaps there is another type of binder or compression garment that could be worn, as well as medications and/or creams to help resolve the rash and itching.  I would suggest discussing the issue with your PS because they will be able to make specific recommendations.

Emmanuel Mallol Cotes, MD · Answer

Thank you very much for sharing your concerns with us.To reduce the swelling I recommend you perform daily lymphatic drainage massage therapy over the abdomen and wear a postoperative girdle from thigh to the breasts. If your binder gives you rash i recommend you to talk with your surgeon to search for another compression garment.Respectfully, Dr. Emmanuel Mallol Cotes.-

Martin Jugenburg, MD · Answer

If you are still experiencing a lot of swelling I would suggest you keep wearing a binder. I would agree that spanx do not provide enough of the stretch support that you are needing. If you are finding that a shirt underneath the binder is making no difference you may want to do some research into the different waist trainers of fabric corsets that exist. Hopefully your can find something with enough support and a fabric that does not cause you irritation. Best of luck.

Ernest Layton, MD · Answer

Thank you for you question. Sorry to hear that your having this problem. Usually 6 weeks is all I tell patients to wear the garment. If they want, they can wear it during the day when they are more active and remove it at night at this point.  Try seeing if another brand will be more comfortable for you. Maybe your Dr has a suggestion. Also you can use Benadryl cream or pill. Hope this helps. Best regardsDr Ernie Layton

Sugene Kim, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi, there.  If you are allergic to your binder but still needing to wear compression due to swelling, try another compression garment.  Contact your plastic surgeon to see what other brand/style he/she recommends.  For symptomatic relief, you can take Benadryl, Claritin, and steroid cream.  Best regards.

Rash and itching due to binder, but can't go without it due to severe swelling. Suggestions?

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Answer: Rash itching under abdominal binder

Answer: Rash itching under abdominal binder

Answer: Rash and itching due to binder

Answer: Rash and itching due to binder

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Rash and itching due to binder, but can't go without it due to severe swelling. Suggestions?

Answers (6)

Answer: Rash itching under abdominal binder

Answer: Rash itching under abdominal binder

Answer: Rash and itching due to binder

Answer: Rash and itching due to binder

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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