Itchy incisions! What can I do?

Question

1 week post breast reduction surgery. My incisions are extremely itchy.

Gary L. Ross, MBChB, FRCS · Answer

This is not uncommon and may be due to medications, garments and dressings. Might be worth running this past your PS to see if you can remove the dressings / bra.

Christine Blaine, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question.  Definitely give your board certified plastic surgeon's office a call to let them know about the itching that you are experiencing.  While some minor itching is to be expected, you should rule out the possibility that you are experiencing an allergic reaction to a medication that you might be taking, a skin prep that might have been applied, and/or a surgical dressing that had been placed.  Some over the counter benadryl can be helpful but please avoid applying any topical preparations until you have been evaluated by your plastic surgeon.  I hope that this helps!

Katerina M. Gallus, MD, FACS · Answer

This may be a minor irritation from the prep solution used prior to surgery or a reaction to your garment (bra) or any glue or tape on your incisions.  It could also be an allergic reaction to medications you are taking.  It is best to see your surgeon right away so whatever is causing the itching, if it is an easy fix, can be stopped/removed.  Taking over the counter benadryl can help with the itching in the meantime.

Tracy Kayan, MD · Answer

I would advise you to go see your surgeon right away. There can sometimes be a minor amount of itching that is normal after surgery, but you want to make sure it's not from an allergic reaction to either your medications or any suture, glue or tape that was used on or around your incisions. For comfort in the meantime you can try oral benadryl but avoid putting any topical anti itch creams or lotions on your incisions or skin until you are seen by your doctor.

Gary W. Cox, MD · Answer

This is a common postoperative concern and usually self limited.  Consult with your doctor, sometime Benadryl is helpful.  Mostly it just takes a little time for the inflammation to settle down.

Itchy incisions! What can I do?

Answers (5)

Answer: Itching around your incision sites post operatively

Answer: Itching around your incision sites post operatively

Answer: Common

Answer: Common

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Reduction

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

Itchy incisions! What can I do?

Answers (5)

Answer: Itching around your incision sites post operatively

Answer: Itching around your incision sites post operatively

Answer: Common

Answer: Common

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Reduction

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