Rash/Hives After Breast Augmentation? (photo)

Question

My BA was 8/5/13. I got silicone under the muscle, under the breast incisions with dissolvable stitches. At week 2, my PS removed the original white steri-strips and placed a beige tape over the incisions. I am at about week 3 now and have developed a rash, first where the tapes were and now it is spreading. My PS told me I am having an allergic reaction with hyperpigmentation. The reddened areas of my skin are extremely sensitive to touch and movement and feel very tight.

Kurtis Martin, MD · Answer

This appears to be allergic in nature but infection is always a possibility. Try some hydrocortisone cream for relief. It will take a few weeks to improve.

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

It looks as though you have an allergic reaction to the adhesive of the tape. Eliminate exposure and treat with a topical steroid.

Matthew Schulman, MD · Answer

Without seeing you, it is impossible to know what is going on. It is possible that is is a reaction to adhesives, but it may also be a reaction to deep sutures or even an infection. Make sure that your surgeon sees you in person, and not just giving his opinion based on a phone call or a photograph. An infection around a breast implant can be very serious.

James N. Romanelli, MD, FACS · Answer

If you were my patient I would want to see you immediately. You need an evaluation to see if this is indeed a contact dermatitis, or not. A contact dermatitis can become infected, leading to infection of the implant. I would call your surgeon right away. Best of luck!

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Appears as a true allergic reaction but only IN PERSON examination would allow a more definitive diagnosis. Hope you starred on PO antibiotics and steroid creams?

Rash/Hives After Breast Augmentation? (photo)

Answers (8)