Is a breast reduction rash common at 2 months post-op? (Photos)

Question

My skin is so rough/dry, itchy, and red. The left breast is definitely worse than the right. I have an appointment next week with my surgeon but I’m hoping I can get some info on if this is a common complication with this procedure. I tried putting moisturizer from the surgeon on it and tried coconut oil but both seem to have just irritated it more so I haven’t been putting anything on it except when it gets so itchy, i put some A&D ointment on it and it seems to soothe it a little bit.

Ira H. Rex III, MD · Answer

It is  common to have some kind of rash after breast reduction. The rash may represent an allergic reaction, say, to tape, but the distribution of your redness does not seem to indicate this. You may also have a fungal infection. I suggest seen sooner, rather than later.  Often, a steroid cream could decrease your symptoms as well as redness and allow earlier healing.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

This may be organic in nature, but allergic reaction from adhesives may be the cause.  An allergic reaction after breast augmentation and lift may be due to adhesive, tape, steristrips, the garment, antibiotic ointment, or any number of things.  If there is no infection, oral or topical steroids can be offered.   A comfortable t-shirt or the like worn underneath the compression bra usually tends to help with irritation and comfort.
Next week your plastic surgeon can determine the reason for your rash and prescribe the best post-operative treatment.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear kmarie319,I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment it would be difficult to determine what is wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment. Only after thorough examination you can get proper recommendations and advice.Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Sibel Atalay, MD · Answer

Hello! Thank you for your question.
There is not at everyone, just at some people. It depends on your skin sensitivity. We recommend to stop using any creams.
Best regards,
Dr.Sibel Atalay.

Gary L. Ross, MBChB, FRCS · Answer

It is not unusual to develop rashes after surgery but at this stage you need to see your PS or a dermatologist for advice regarding the use of steroid cream.

Peter A. Felice, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your photographs and concerns, I’m sorry to see you’re having some difficulties in your postoperative recovery. 
The other member panels have given you some excellent advice, I too agree with the recommendations to stop any further topicals and to see your Plastic Surgeon and your PCP as soon as possible. Try your best to keep the area clean and dry and resist the urge to itch (easier said than done sometimes, unfortunately).
Best of luck, I hope you’re able to get some relief soon.
Peter A. Felice, MD

Javier Soto, MD · Answer

Hello and thanks for getting in contact with us,pleasestop using the oinment or any other thing that you are applying and please book and appoinment with the surgeon you book the surgery with to see what does it reccomends as this allergic reactions are very red and they are not normals,good luck with it we wish that you can get better soon ¡

Carrie Houssock, MD · Answer

From the photos your provided, it looks that you have a contact dermatitis, or allergic reaction.  It is possible it is due to adhesive, or an ointment you are using.  It can also be the sutures absorbing within the skin.  I would stop all topical treatments and see your doctor asap so they might prescribe something orally to help with symptoms.

Nick Masri, MD, FACS · Answer

Sorry to hear about your rashes, kmarie319.
I suggest that you should stop anything that you’re applying to your breasts as they would likely cause more irritation. If you’re going to shower, please make sure that you use a gentle, hypoallergenic soap so as not to irritate your skin further.
Your check-up next week with your reputable and board-certified plastic surgeon will give you more answers and treatment options, but for now, stop whatever you’re applying.
Good luck!

Is a breast reduction rash common at 2 months post-op? (Photos)

Answers (9)

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