Breasts are peeling 18 days post op. Is this normal?

Question

I'm 18 days post op and for about a week my breasts have been SO itchy! Today they started peeling. I'm just wondering how common this is .

Martin Jugenburg, MD · Answer

This is likely related to the implants stretching your skin to accommodate for space. You shoudl address your questions and concerns with your surgeon. Regards,

Steven J. Rottman, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question and congratulations on your recent surgery. It is completely normal to experience itching and peeling in the early post-operative period. This is simply secondary to the implants causing your skin to stretch. This sensation shouldn't last too much longer. Please discuss your concerns at your follow up appointment with your plastic surgeon. Hope this helps.

William R. Burden, MD, FACS · Answer

Contact your doctor for an examination.  In the meantime, the itching symptoms can be improved with a topical hydrocortisone cream.   Benadryl may also help.  Avoid drying the skin out with soaps.  God luck.

Terrence Murphy, MD · Answer

This is likely a normal response to the stretching of your skin after surgery. I would be sure to check with you surgeon because on a rare occasion an infection may lead to this. It likely is best treated with moisturizers.

Benjamin J. Cousins, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and all the best with your recovery. Sometimes the antimicrobial skin preparation used in surgery causes some itching until it is washed off or the skin peels. It may also be your body adjusting to the new implants and the stretching of your skin. This should resolve quickly after surgery, but be sure to follow-up with your plastic surgeon for this and other concerns you may have.Benjamin J. Cousins MDBoard Certified Plastic Surgeon

John Dean, MD · Answer

It is not unusual to have skin changes post op due to skin stretching and also due to the harsh prep solutions used in surgery.  Good moisturizers and time will help.  Benadryl can help with the itching, as well.

Chien C. Kat, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.It is not uncommon to have dry flaky skin after surgery due to the stretch on the skin. Usually if you make sure that you moisturise the skin regularly it will settle in a few weeks. If you are at all concerned do contact your plastic surgeons office for advice.

Fred Hackney, MD (retired) · Answer

Thank you for your question.  The skin feeling tight, itchy and the peeling is completely normal. The skin is getting used to having the implants stretch.  The best thing to do is use moisturizer on the breasts- NOT the incisions!  Also, consult with your plastic surgeon to see if they have a specific recommendation of lotion for you. Best of luck in your continued healing!

J. Michael Morrissey, MD (in memoriam) · Answer

Sorry, couldn't resist that. Dry flaky  skin is pretty common as part of the heeling process. Skin turnover is increased as the wound heals. I typically recommend a good moisturizer without fragrance, Lubriderm, Nivea or Vaseline intensive care. At nearly three weeks post op this should help with the uncomfortable, dry, itchy, flaky skin.Best wishes,Michael Morrissey,MD

Breasts are peeling 18 days post op. Is this normal?

Answers (9)

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