The surgical bra rash. Is this worrisome?

Question

The compressing bra post my breast augmentation six days ago is driving me crazy. Other than being so tight, it has given me a skin rash. The stretchy nylon material is not my favorite but I have to wear the bra. How can I calm the slightly itchy red skin on the sides, under the arms. My incision is still covered with tape. Is the rash worrisome? Seeing my surgeon in two days. Thank you.

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. Always contact the plastic surgeon if you have concern about an allergic reaction. Kenneth Hughes, MD, Board Certified Plastic SurgeonLos Angeles, CA

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

Hello,Thank you for your question. It is difficult to advise you well without an in-person assessment. I recommend that you ask your Plastic Surgeon about comfort measures. They may recommend an alternative, supportive  bra  and/or topical treatment.All the best

Francis Johns, MD · Answer

Thank  you for your question.One option would be to put a light t-shirt on and then put your bra over top to put a barrier between the bra. You could also try taking a Benadryl for the itch and using Cortisone cream topically on the rash to calm it down. Eventually the rash will disappear, but it may take some time. Good luck.

Nana N. Mizuguchi, MD, FACS · Answer

I would be evaluated by your surgeon.  Simple removal of tapes and washing can help.  Steroid treatment may also be helpful.  You should not be suffering at this stage.'Best Wishes,Nana Mizuguchi, MD

Sean Doherty, MD, FACS · Answer

Without examining you in person, impossible to say what is happening. The rash could be due to your bra or it could be an allergic reaction to the adhesive in the tape or steri strips. Thankfully, you are seeing your surgeon soon and he should be able to give you a definitive answer.

The surgical bra rash. Is this worrisome?

Answers (5)

Answer: Go and see your surgeon

Answer: Go and see your surgeon

Answer: Bra rash?

Answer: Bra rash?

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.

The surgical bra rash. Is this worrisome?

Answers (5)

Answer: Go and see your surgeon

Answer: Go and see your surgeon

Answer: Bra rash?

Answer: Bra rash?

Browse related questions

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.